Explore Highlands, NC Mountain Roads

Old Edwards Inn → Bridal Veil Falls → Dry Falls → Bust Your Butt Falls → Cullasaja Gorge → Old Edwards Inn

Head west from Highlands along U.S. 64, the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway, for one of the area's most rewarding waterfall drives. Make your first stop at Bridal Veil Falls, a distinctive roadside cascade that can be viewed without a hike. Continue to Dry Falls, where a short walk leads to a dramatic view from behind the 75 foot waterfall. Continue west through the Cullasaja Gorge, where the road itself becomes part of the experience. Bust Your Butt Falls is another roadside waterfall stop along this corridor, followed farther west by Cullasaja Falls.

Allow approximately 21⁄2 - 3 hours for the drive with several short stops. Guests who want more time at Dry Falls can make that the principal destination and shorten the route.

Old Edwards Inn → Sunset Rock → U.S. 64 East → Whiteside Mountain overlook → Cashiers → scenic return to Highlands → Old Edwards Inn

Begin with a short outing to Sunset Rock for a panoramic view over Highlands and the surrounding mountains. The overlook is close to town, making it easy to fit into a three- hour drive. From there, take U.S. 64 east toward Cashiers. This stretch of road is known for its mountain scenery and views toward Whiteside Mountain.

A stop at the Whiteside Mountain area can be added for guests who would like a short hike or simply enjoy the drive and continue toward Cashiers. Return to Highlands by a scenic mountain-road route, allowing plenty of time for stops and photographs.