Quick and easy hike on a paved road. About .5 miles. Stairs down and up are optional to get closer to Whitewater falls. The sound and the views are remarkable. You’ll need to pay $3.00 (they accept cashless / Apple Pay) to park. Dog, stroller, kid and wheelchair friendly.

Probably the best waterfall to visit in North Carolina. The is a slight uphill walk from your car for about a 1/10 of a mile to see the falls. If you want a better view from the platform, you’ll have to climb down the stairs, which makes it a moderate hike. This day we went to the base which I highly recommend not doing unless you have done a lot of off trail hiking before. You have to climb over huge boulders and the rocks are very very slippery!!! $3 parking fee

Amazing waterfall! Just a heads-up—there are a ton of stairs and the path down is pretty steep, so be prepared for a bit of a workout. We got caught in the rain while we were there, so unfortunately we didn’t make it all the way down to see the best part. Still, it’s a beautiful spot and totally worth the visit!

Short walk on a paved path to a staircase leading to a viewing platform. You can still see the falls from the end of the paved path, so if you can’t (or would rather not) take the stairs, you can still get a nice view. There is a $3.00 per car entrance fee, collected by kiosk or iron ranger.

Absolutely gorgeous waterfall!! Tallest east of the Mississippi River, shared by both North Carolina and South Carolina. It's 1/2 a mile walk to see it. There are 151 steps down to a platform to see the waterfall more centered and absolutely recommend going down the 151 steps but overall is 302 by coming back up. I felt a stadium affect at the bottom of the overlook. I went during the fall peak colors of the trees and it was an experience I will never forget! You don't have to go down the steps to capture the beauty of this waterfall. It's a fairly easy 1/2 a mile walk with a slight incline.

We took my foster pup hiking for the day. Great space for enrichment and training. Great pictures. Too many people to get a good picture of the falls and no good access to explore. Definitely had a great time.

Whitewater Falls is one of those places that makes the drive worth it before you even step out of the car. Tucked near the point where North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia meet, it’s an easy three-hour trip from Atlanta that takes you through three states and lands you somewhere that feels a world away. The falls themselves? Majestic doesn’t even cut it. You can’t get right up to them. There are no trails down to the base. However, the overlook gives you a sweeping, unobstructed view that’s honestly stunning. It’s the kind of place that quiets you without asking. Just trees, rock, water, and air. The park is clean and well cared for. Three bucks per car (cash or card) and you’re in. There’s a calm here that’s hard to describe. No crowds. No noise. Just the sound of the falls in the distance and the rustle of the wind through the trees. For the more adventurous, there are hiking trails that snake off into the hills. For everyone else, the main viewing area is an easy walk and still offers plenty of payoff. This place doesn’t need much selling. It’s just beautiful, plain and simple. Peaceful, powerful, and easy to reach, exactly the kind of spot you wish you’d found sooner.

The hike is about 3 miles round trip, with lots of rocks, roots, and steps to climb. The trail is wide, and can be quite wet in some spots, with one creek crossing, which was shallow the day we visited. The trail is mostly downhill to the falls which means that you get to go uphill on the way back!

This hike is worth it! Wear good shoes as there are two streams to cross. I think it’s in between moderate and strenuous but there are steep places to climb. It’s majestic. The beauty. The sounds. The peacefulness of it all.

Fun and beautiful hike to the falls, full of lots scenery and beautiful birds. Fun and easy for all family very clean. Once you get to the falls it is even more beautiful. You can jump in and relax and refresh in the water. Or have fun jumping of a ledge into the water.

Absolutely amazing view. Multiple view points. Overall 3.75 miles round trip. Trail difficulty was moderate to difficult. Parking was available. I can spend whole day watching this waterfall.

Great hike , located inside Gorges state Park in Sapphire, NC. The trail starts just a short drive below the visitor center . The trail is clearly marked and easy to follow. It’s not a long hike , maybe 4 miles total and I’d say moderate in difficulty. It seemed most elevation came was on the way out . There are three main falls, (rainbow falls, turtle back falls and driftwood). There is a short offshoot to stair step falls . There are a couple water crossings but very easy to manage , the trail is wet and seems to stay that way. You come upon rainbow falls at about 1.6 miles in , roughly . Thus falls is massive and you can feel the spray even way up on the trail. There is a trail or two that lead closer to falls but be careful . Next was turtle back and then driftwood falls, (it actually is in private property ,you will see signs ). A very beautiful hike and one I will be repeating often and parking is free

We visited several weeks ago and I had read and heard various opinions about the hike to the falls. After completing the hike, I would say it is moderate and my husband would say it was strenuous. We saw young children, grandparents, and a variety of dogs, so the hike is doable for most people. The majority of the walk to the falls was a decline, with a steeper incline towards the end. I also want to advise that there is a safe path to get down closer to the rocks in front of the falls past the wooden fence section. We saw people going to the left of the fence to get down, but it is very steep and would be challenging to climb back up. We brought towels and water shoes and were able to safely get in the water further from the falls and relax there. The water temperature was perfect for cooling off after the hike. I would highly recommend this hike! Parking was not an issue. We arrived around noon and had no issues.

Although the hike will be challenging for casual hikers, the falls are worth the effort, and the swimming hole is just lovely!

We played soccer golf and really enjoyed our time. It took about an hour and most of the holes we par 3's. We encountered a couple golfers in the course and played thru pretty easily. The fairway grass is tall--similar to a soccer field so be prepared. It's a decent course for the price paid but the best part is the fresh mountain air. Four of us played soccer golf, including soccer ball rentals, for $32. We'll be back again!

Fun little par 3 course, also very cheap. Worth checking out if in the area, doesn’t allow for many long shots but great if you’re working on your short game!

We were unable to play unfortunately. We went by a couple of times and called. The first call said they open once its hits above 40*, understandable. We went to town to kill some time and let it warm up a bit. We can back, 45* still closed. We called again to see and they said they were closed until it warmed up this afternoon, I asked if he knew about what time (mind you it’s above the 40* mark) and he asked “Well do you know when it will warm up?” Just rude. We were looking forward to playing foot golf.

Are you looking for that Perfect 9 hole par 3 course? Look no further. I love coming here when I am on vacation in cashiers. This course is a great walking course and I never miss my chance to play it

Course is in great condition right now! Way better than years past. Staff are super nice! The Thursday Scramble tournament is really fun! Congrats to the team there!

A bit pricey at $66 for 2 with a cart. Course was shorter than normal with several tees under repair. Otherwise in pretty good condition. Many sub-100 yd par 3 holes. Confusing at time with no map on the scorecard and beware the extra flags for the footgolf (soccer) scattered around the course.

Good place to just relax and hit a few balls. Not a really challenging 9 hole course just a basic par 3/4 course with a driving range that does not allow shots over 200 yards. Better price than $90 like other public course in town.

We’ve been coming to Sapphire for several years & today’s experience was the best so far! Our family got there early to reserve ski tickets & they were on the slopes quickly! This is a great place for beginners to learn to ski! They also have snow tubing that is fun for the whole family. The staff was very helpful & efficient! The ski patrol does a great job of watching the slopes & helping when they’re needed. Ski Patrol named Elizabeth is very kind & helpful. She does a great job! Our family had a great time at Ski Sapphire Valley today!

We took our 3yr old Tubing, it was excellent!! The skiing was a bit shallow, due to lack of true snow so far this season. But there was enough for her to gear up, and actually learn the basics. Great atmosphere.

Great location. Quiet. Peaceful. Clean. Well managed. Can't comment on the skiing. After all, it is early May, but the area more than makes up for it. And I would be happy just with the fireplace in the units. If you are off ski season, there is an executive Par 3 golf course, hiking trails, waterfalls and scenic drives all around you. You can't lose

Really good place to go with family. Perfect for beginners as we were. The staff is very professional and make sure you have a good time at their facilities. We loved skiing and tubbing. Definitely a place I would recommend.

Great Two run ski resort for families to learn To ski at. Family of 5 with lift tickets & rentals was ~$480. Get there early as the ski shop & paying for it takes some time.

Roomy and clean. I didn't want to leave the bed, it was so comfy! Would definitely go back. Would have gave it five stars but the rooms are dated (1980's style).

We probably picked the worst time possible to try this place. - The MLK holiday weekend, in the middle of the global pandemic where outdoor sports are already in high demand. The place was absolutely PACKED!!! - But if you read below, you’ll see how the team at Sapphire Valley still deserve all 5 stars. My daughter and I drove up from Atlanta (3 hours each way) and arrived at opening time to find there were already lines for lift tickets and rental equipment. By 10am renters were already being turned away because they had run out of most equipment. Then I met Gary... Gary was working the lines and speaking to everyone individually, listening to them and gently explaing the situation. We pitched that had driven up for the day specifically for my daughter to learn to snowboard and it would all be in vain. Fortunately he had an idea. Daughter is pretty small and light so they had some kids boards leftover but nothing for me, except perhaps a short pair of ski’s and the promise of a board later in the day. “Brilliant - I’ll take it!” - After about an hour we were suited and booted! Theres a gentle bunny slope with a Magic Carpet and a longer run with a couple of rails for experts to slam, fed by a 4 seat Chairlift. Despite the initial crowds, the slopes never felt crowded and we had plenty of space to learn. Also if you look at the ski cam on their website it looks like the lines to go uphill are long but they move fairly quickly. Then I met Amanda... Amanda had noted that I wasnt in the equipment I wanted and took the time to follow up with a phone call as soon as a board my size became available. A quick return of my skis and boots and I’m back into ‘Shawn-White-Mode’! What looked like a total bust for the day, had now turned into probably one of the more memorable days in my daughters life. - Primarily down to the team at Sapphire Valley. Even all the guys who spent the day freezing while working the lifts had some chat and a smile for us all. This place could rival Chik-Fil-A for top level service! I would also recommend it for a fun day out for the family and a perfect place for the youngsters to learn before heading to more expensive resorts.

Hands down one of the best restaurants I've ever been to. Not only is the food exceptional and creative, but the customer service is off the charts! Great warm, inviting culture from the entire staff and ownership. Something that is hard to find today. The environment is wonderful as well. Cozy and inviting. Don't miss out on this hidden gem of a restaurant.

We were exploring venues for an upcoming wedding and The Library was recommended. We stopped by right before closing and had drinks and dessert. Matthew at the bar was amazing and recommended the bread pudding (perfect!) and Marina showed us some of the restaurants. Both went out of their way to help us on a busy Saturday night! Next time we’re in town, we’ll make a reservation and hope to have some of our wedding activities there!

Cute little spot in the mountains. The popcorn was fun and the crackers with the pimento cheese were yummy. Alll the steaks were really good and the veal. The sushi was not great and wouldn’t order again. Service was good and a fun atmosphere.

We went here as a family with our 3 kids. They have a kids menu but our kids are foodies so we didn’t order off the kids menu. We ordered 2 specials: elk and pistachio crusted grouper. Both were very yummy, seasoned perfectly and cooked to our liking. My kids ordered a variety of different things; sushi, and two different types of steak. They all enjoyed their meals. The snails were to die for, right up there with snails I had in Paris! After our meal, the hostess, who is wonderful, and when I say wonderful, she’s one of the best hosts ever. She might be one of the best people I have ever met in my life. She’s one of those people who just make you smile by being in her presence. She took my kids to the back of the kitchen to meet the chef and walked them through the entire kitchen and explained everything, and then the chef signed hats and took a picture with them. This was such a special experience because my youngest son takes cooking classes and it’s so special to go back in professional kitchens. 💙 I would definitely go back to this place and highly recommend it.

My mother came to visit and we had reservations (for months in advance) at another fancy restaurant in town… We were treated so beyond terribly by the manager when we arrived at the Canyon Kitchen that we left... It was supposed to be a special night out with my Mom and that experience got us off on the wrong foot. My heart was in the dumps....We decided to see if we could get in at the Library. When we approached the front door we were greeted with such amazing warmth and with a huge smile. A far cry from what we had just experienced. We spent the next hour enjoying one of the best meals and service you could ever imagine. I'm not one to sit down and write reviews...but our experience at the Library turned a terrible experience upside down. Thank you Liz and the Library crew! You are all fantastic! We will be lifelong patrons and supporters of this fine establishment. When we left my mom asked Liz to take pictures... she thought we wanted pictures of us.... nope... we wanted pictures with her! Thank you! We will be back

A Hidden Gem in the Mountains Tucked away in the serene beauty of the mountains, this hidden culinary gem delivers an unforgettable dining experience that masterfully balances sophistication with a laid-back charm. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by breathtaking views and a warm, inviting atmosphere that felt more like a friend’s beautiful mountain lodge than a formal dining room. Chef Johannes is a true artist in the kitchen — each dish was a work of art, bursting with fresh, inventive flavors and impeccable presentation. From the locally sourced ingredients to the perfectly paired wine list, every element of the menu spoke to his passion and creativity. The food was undeniably fine dining, but the vibe was anything but stuffy — laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses filled the air in the best possible way. Liz, the heart of the front-of-house experience, made us feel right at home. Her attention to detail, thoughtful recommendations, and genuine hospitality elevated the evening to something truly special. Together, Chef Johannes and Liz create not just a meal, but a full sensory journey that makes you feel like you're exactly where you're meant to be. This place is a must-visit for anyone seeking world-class cuisine in a setting that’s as fun and welcoming as it is breathtaking. Whether you're celebrating something big or just want an extraordinary night out, this mountain retreat delivers every time.

First time here and had a wonderful time! Pork and rainbow trout were excellent. Marina took very good care of us and had excellent recommendations.

We had a large group of nine people. Mixed reviews. It was very very loud. We couldn’t hear people at our own table. Some people loved their food and others it was ok. I was in the second camp. My lobster fettuccine was like warm. Appetizers were ok. Portion sizes were not really matching the prices. We had a $750 bill for 9 people. And one was a kid.

Was quite surprised to find a high-end and really good Italian restaurant in the Cashiers area. Place was packed for a Tuesday, so good thing we booked ahead. Despite the busyness, we were seated quickly and ordering was quick. The food was outstanding, I think the veal dishes are the stars here, though the shrimp pasta and fish were excellent as well. While it was a little loud and hard to hear, we could still carry on conversations. Overall, I highly recommended this restaurant for anyone in the area looking for legit Italian food.

Absolutely phenomenal experience from start to finish! Osteria is the kind of upscale Italian restaurant that reminds you why dining out can be such a joy. The atmosphere strikes that rare, perfect balance — elegant and elevated, but still warm, welcoming, and calm. Even when the dining room is full (and it often is!), there’s a peaceful ease to the space that makes you feel like you’re exactly where you’re meant to be. We come here often, and it never disappoints. The veal dishes in particular are out of this world — tender, flavorful, and clearly crafted with care. You can taste the quality in every bite. And whatever you do, do not skip dessert. It’s not just good — it’s the kind of incredible that has you thinking about it days later. But what truly sets Osteria apart is the people. The waitstaff here are next-level — attentive, kind, and genuinely personable. We were lucky enough to have Vicky as our server the first time we came, and she is a total gem. Warm, thoughtful, and so knowledgeable about the menu. She made the experience feel like we were being hosted by a close friend who happens to be a total pro. We’ve returned multiple times and are always happy when we are seated at one of her tables. I can’t recommend Osteria highly enough. If you’re able to, you should absolutely make a point to get dinner here. Whether it’s a special night out or just a desire for truly amazing Italian food, this place delivers every single time.

Came in from Florida for fiancés birthday and came here since it’s so close to our cabin , this place is like coming to a friends house for a big Italian dinner and everyone’s invited it’s loud but in a good way , the server Victor was amazing and very attentive !! The food was delicious I got the salmon I just wish it had came with more sides and my drink was to die for a cranberry cocktail !! Can’t wait to come back !!

Food- meh. My husband is Italian and was not impressed. Atmostphere-great Hostess- great. I was worried about our outfits being too casual, but she reassured​​ us we were welcome and it was fine. Super sweet. This is a vacation spot. It was Labor Day weekend. We just hiked Rainbow Falls & it was more intense than we thought, & we sweat through our clothes! We were staying right next door, so we got cleaned up & wore whatever clothes we had left for the weekend (jeans & a shirt for me & a Nike sweatsuit for my husband). Nothing inappropriate, but not dressy. Again, people, we were on vacation. Our server was terrible. Ignored us, walked past us several times, never filled our drinks (the runner kid did), we asked for dessert menus and he brought them by setting them on the table and turning around and walking away!​​ It's laughable how rude he was. He was standing right behind us hamming it up with another table while giving us the most minimal service. The only thing he did was take our order & bring the bill. The other employees filled our drinks, brought our food, took our plates, etc. He was 100% giving us the cold shoulder and I fully believe he snubbed us because he thought we were not classy enough for him, but money spends, right? Sheesh. I have never had a snobby server. Work your table, be friendly, be witty, not snooty. Do better, guy. Don't be prejudice towards your customers. He wouldn't do well on Undercover Boss. ​

One of the best plates of food I’ve had in years! The Veal Gorgonzola was incredible and the lamb rack was insane! To top it off, Victor was the most amazing waiter! Super knowledgeable about the menu, very attentive and got the bday girl tequila shots! We will definitely be back!!

My experience has to do with my wedding 08/22 of 2025. let this be a short story. This was a place. My girlfriend picked thinking it was the finest for our wedding reception of five people.. Walked in everything was grand people clap it was wonderful sat down at the table and within minutes I saw a spider large on my Butter plate,, I killed it immediately. I have a photo of it.. Being a photographer and the marketing, I thought I should do that. It took me three men to tap and ask if they would help.. No one did. Finally, a young man helped. I was totally disgusted. The gentleman that walked me down the aisle is petrified of spiders so you can imagine his feelings and dismay to see this on the table. When I finally brought it up quietly to the waitress, who said she was a manager. She denied knowing that there was anything that went wrong. I can’t believe it.. After dinner, she offered to take my Bill on my $29 entrée off and gave us a small bag of a dessert. I tried to contact the general manager three times through an email no response. It is now Thursday almost a week after my wedding and I’ve heard nothing from the restaurant. They were given my email my phone number and etc. With the background in marketing, I used to do the Green Bay Packers event events.. Which include. included many dining area areas in Wisconsin. I would’ve never accepted somebody having an experience like that after paying a lot of money to have dinner with the Packers. At least expected a callback from the GM Osteria Didn’t happen. I’m leaving this review, hoping they’ll respond. They have my name, my number, my email and etc.. I don’t think anybody have a great event there small or large if that’s the service they give. Giving them one is more than I would even think they deserve it this point. Thank you kindly for listening Dawn Marie Thomas

This state park is a must try! Location is close to Cashiers so you can head over there in a 20 minute drive. Cabin can sleep up to 6 with 4 bunk beds. Heat works great! Cabins 1-5 are directly across from bathrooms and shower. Rainbow Falls Trail is inside of the park and it’s worth every step. The camp host and her husband were helpful! So friendly! I highly recommend!

Awesome park to visit and camp! There was a moderate hike out to rainbow and turtle back falls, but they are totally worth it. Showers were very clean, and campsites were tidy when we arrived. I will definitely be coming back here in the future!

The hike to Rainbow Falls at Gorges State Park was clearly labeled strenuous but worth the amazing views. However, there are some places along the hike where I would suggest watching your step as there are no ropes or anything to hold onto. Overall the trails were prestine and the campgrounds were very well maintained. I would highly recommend!

I stayed at the campground and it was really nice. The campsites were close but somewhat secluded. It was nicely spread out with the where the cabins were in one area, tents another, and RVs in their area. The bathrooms were clean and they had showers. They had potable water spigots throughout the campgrounds. It was cool watching the bats fly are nightly and hearing the whip-or-wills calling. The campground host Connie and her dog were super helpful and engaging. She was the best campground host I’ve ever encountered. She made rounds checking on you, called you by name, and asked about your day. She definitely went above and beyond and is an asset to the park staff. The park was beautiful and well maintained. Nice trails and beautiful waterfalls. You can see some wildlife. Raymond Fisher pond is nice and peaceful, a great place to sit and meditate. I was lucky enough to see an elusive white squirrel in the park but missed a photo opportunity. The visit center and gift shop nice. Definitely worth a visit. Nice informative movie on the gorge and ecology. They also had picnic tables around the building and rocking chairs facing the mountains in the distance.

5/2025 Great place to go camping. Fills up on week-ends. Rainbow Falls and Upper Bearwallow Falls access from the park. Bathrooms and showers are cleaned daily. Rangers are very helpful in answering any questions you may have about the area.

Gorges is Gorgeous! Wonderful campground with full hookups, and amazing visitor center. There are lots of hiking trails including access to the Foothills Trail. We hiked to Rainbow Falls which is about 3 miles round trip. It was worth the hike!

Camping here was fantastic and quiet. Restrooms/showers very clean. Never felt unsafe sleeping with doors open on our camper van we reserved a spot last minute the only available site for our stay was on the tent side. We did all the falls plus alltrails falls. Beautiful area with some amazing hiking.

Every year this show gets better and better!