Whitewater Falls (North Carolina)

Whitewater Falls, located in Transylvania County, North Carolina, is a series of waterfalls and cascades on the Whitewater River. Composed of Upper Whitewater Falls and Lower Whitewater Falls, it is often cited as the highest waterfall east of the Rockies. Upper Whitewater Falls plunges approximately 411 feet (125 m), making it the tallest waterfall in the eastern United States.

The falls are situated within the Nantahala National Forest and are accessible via a paved walkway to viewing platforms. Lower Whitewater Falls, located further downstream in South Carolina, is significantly smaller but still a notable natural feature.

The area surrounding Whitewater Falls is known for its biodiversity and scenic beauty, attracting hikers and nature enthusiasts. The falls are a significant tourist destination, contributing to the local economy. The falls and surrounding watershed are also important for providing clean water and supporting a variety of plant and animal life. Conservation efforts are in place to protect the natural integrity of the area from the impacts of tourism and development.

The geology of the region plays a crucial role in the formation of the falls. The Whitewater River has eroded through layers of resistant metamorphic rock over millions of years, creating the dramatic drop. The area is part of the Blue Ridge Escarpment, a zone where the relatively flat Piedmont region meets the steeper mountains of the Blue Ridge.