Best attractions and places to see around Highlands features a landscape characterized by natural features such as waterfalls, summits, and trails. This region provides opportunities to explore various natural monuments and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can discover a range of outdoor experiences, from accessible waterfalls to mountain trails offering expansive views.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
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The Holcomb Creek Trail is a secluded singletrack loop that passes by three wild waterfalls in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest: Lower Holcomb Creek Falls, Upper Holcomb Creek Falls, and Ammons Falls. There are also a bunch of small cascades along Holcomb Creek, which the trail follows the entire time.
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This trail leads you along Glen Falls, which is known for being a triple waterfall. The upper and middle falls offer the most stunning views, but it's worth it to see all three.
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Whiteside Mountain, a landmark of the Nantahala National Forest, rises to an elevation of 4,930 feet. Its cliffs look like layers of ice that have settled over the mountain. The trail is popular because of the great views.
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Gorgeous views. Beware of the switchbacks during rainy season, they are pretty muddy, but if you take the old route (the straight route) up to the peak you'll stay out of the mud.
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The Highlands area is rich in natural beauty. You can explore stunning waterfalls like Dry Falls, where you can walk behind the cascade, and Glen Falls, a triple waterfall offering spectacular views. For panoramic vistas, consider hiking Whiteside Mountain Trail or reaching the summit of Yellow Mountain.
Yes, the Highlands are known for their beautiful waterfalls. Dry Falls is easily accessible from Highway 64 and uniquely allows visitors to walk behind the waterfall. Another must-see is Glen Falls, a triple waterfall where the upper and middle sections provide the most stunning views.
For trails offering great views, Whiteside Mountain Trail is highly recommended. It's known for its panoramic vistas from Whiteside Mountain and is not overly strenuous. Another option is Yellow Mountain, which also provides gorgeous views, though some sections can be muddy during the rainy season.
Yes, Dry Falls is a family-friendly attraction. Its easy accessibility and the unique experience of walking behind the waterfall make it enjoyable for visitors of all ages.
The Highlands area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy options like Satulah Mountain Trail and Sunset Rock Trail. For road cycling, routes like the Holt Knob – Dry Falls loop are popular. Running enthusiasts can explore trails such as Rabun Bald via Bartram Trail. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for hiking, road cycling, and running around Highlands.
Absolutely. For an intermediate hike with great views, try the Whiteside Mountain Trail. If you're looking for easier options, the Satulah Mountain Trail, Sunset Rock Trail, Kelsey Trail, Ranger Falls Loop Trail, and Lindenwood Lake Loop are all considered easy hikes. You can explore more hiking routes in the Hiking around Highlands guide.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and the rewarding views. For instance, the Whiteside Mountain Trail is loved for its 'great views' and being 'not strenuous.' Dry Falls is highlighted as 'definitely worth the stop' due to its unique walk-behind feature. The overall appeal lies in the accessible natural monuments and scenic viewpoints.
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, Yellow Mountain offers rewarding views from its summit. Another notable peak is Whiterock Mountain, a 4469 ft summit along the Bartram Trail, known for its monolithic rock offering excellent views of the Appalachian Mountains.
For popular spots like Dry Falls, there are paid parking places available, typically costing around $3. For other trails and summits, parking availability can vary, so it's advisable to check specific trailheads beforehand.
If you enjoy running, you can find several trails around Highlands. Popular options include Rabun Bald via Bartram Trail, Holcomb Creek Trail, Cashiers Lake loop from Cashiers, and Harris Lake loop from Highlands. More details on these and other routes can be found in the Running Trails around Highlands guide.
Yes, the area offers several road cycling routes. You can explore loops such as Holt Knob – Dry Falls from Highlands, Little Bearpen Mountain – Dry Falls from Black Rock Mountain, and Highlands Reservoir – Cowee Gap from Whiteside Mountain. For a comprehensive list, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Highlands guide.

