Sites & Insights

Article and Images by Norman Nokleby

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Why Go

The Little River, which flows through this forest, is large in beauty and accessibility. The surrounding mountains that the river and its tributaries have sculpted complement the water features, providing a variety of photo opportunities. In addition, this 10,000-acre tract of previously private land officially opened to the public in January 2001and, therefore, has not been over-photographed. The Little River has both calm spots for reflection possibilities as well as several photogenic waterfalls. Abundant displays of mountain laurel and rhododendron blooms exist along the trails and the banks during the spring.

Where To Go

This natural area is located in western North Carolina, between the towns of Brevard and Hendersonville. It is approximately a dozen miles from Brevard and a slightly longer ride from Hendersonville. It is not too far off US 276, which runs between Greenville SC and Brevard NC. It canal so be accessed via US 64, which runs between Hendersonville and Brevard. As of early 2002, there are no highway signs to guide you, although the main approaches are all good, paved roads. For directions, go the Friends of DuPont Forest web site at www.dupontforest.com.

Photo Op Notes

Triple Falls, as its name implies, has three distinct sections. The base of the third section and the top of the first section are relatively easy to get to. The path that goes to the base of Triple Falls is especially worth considering for the different views of the falls and the river. High Falls is tall and spreads as it flows down the rock face. Therefore, you will probably need a wide angle lens if you want to photograph High Falls from the base. The River Bend Trail, which branches off the High Falls Trail, provides an easier way to get to the base of High Falls than following the High Falls Trail to the more traditional access point. Although smaller, Hooker Falls is easy to get to and worth visiting. The mountain laurel offers excellent opportunities, both on it sown and in conjunction with the water features. The trail up across Big Rock offers some nice views. Corn Mill Shoals are some interesting cascades that are also worth visiting. Although not marked, a number of paths branch off main trails, allowing access to the water. I have not found Bridal Veil Falls to be worth the hike. A wire across Little River makes a composition looking upstream difficult. It is possible to get behind Bridal Veil to look downstream, but you will likely get your feet wet.

When To Go

Try to go during the week, if at all possible. If you go on the weekend, try to arrive as early as possible. During late May and very early June, mountain laurel blooms are abundant; after that, rhododendron buds open into early July. Fall colors can vary significantly, but being there around the middle of October is usually a safe bet.

Tips

I strongly recommend purchasing a map (from one of the locations listed on the web site) and carrying a compass. Although the map is small, having one is better than being without. (Although more detailed, USGS topographic maps will not show the trails.) Note that the trails in this area are used by those on foot, mountain bike, and horse. There are some picnic tables at several points along the trails. There are a few chemical toilets near the parking areas.

In the Area

Significant photo opportunities also exist in Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway, just a few miles north of Brevard NC via US 276. The closest campground is on US 276, 13 miles south of Brevard. Brevard and Hendersonville both have motel accommodations; those in Hendersonville will typically be less expensive.

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