Dupont Waterfalls

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Transylvania County, NC, US

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Route Overview

The Bike Farm

base camp. bike park. guides

14 mi.

1,471 ft.

Starting at the Lake Imaging Trailhead, this ride takes in some popular Dupont State Forest water falls, including Triple Falls and High Falls. It finishes with a popular local downhill.

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Route Details

Dupont State Forest, located between Hendersonville and Brevard, NC, offers a fast and flowy alternative to the gnarly Pisgah National Forest trails.  This route is a great introduction to the forest where trails can be linked to create an epic ride. Most of the trails are beginner friendly but a few offer some technical climbing and fast descents that should be ridden with caution. Beginner through experts will find something suitable.

*Dupont Waterfalls* connects several trails via gravel roads with opportunities to view waterfalls or have a picnic.  Hikers and horseback riders will be encountered along the way. Bring plenty of water and food for the ride. Restrooms, usually a single port-a-john, are located at each trailhead and several are at the Visitor Center at the High Falls parking area. Afternoon thunderstorms throughout the summer can be expected.

# Directions:

From Crab Creek Road turn south 2.6 miles on DuPont Road which turns into Staton Road. The Lake Imaging Access Area is on the left. From Cedar Mountain (US 276), turn north 2.5 miles on Cascade Lake Road past the Corn Mill Shoals Access Area. Turn right on Staton Road at the DuPont State Recreational Forest sign 2.7 miles past the High Falls and Hooker Falls Access Areas, to the Lake Imaging Access Area on the right.

Detailed directions from various points can be found at:
[www.dupontforest.com/visit/directions/](http://www.dupontforest.com/visit/directions/)

# The Route:

* From the Lake Imaging Trailhead, begin at the information board. Pass Lake Imaging on the right and turn left on Jim Branch trail.  A challenging rock-hardened section starts off the moderate climb. Once past the rocky section, the climb is relatively mellow and then descends. 
* Upon reaching an intersection, sharp right to continue onto Isaac Heath trail. 
* Continue onto Locust Trail to the right. When you reach Lake Imaging Rd, cross and continue onto Hilltop Loop trail.  
* Just before you reach Lake Imaging Rd again, you will see a turnoff for the Grassy Creek Falls trail.  You must dismount your bike if you wish to continue on this trail and view the @photo[falls](942953).   
* Continue right onto Buck Forest Road which will take you to the Visitor Center and restrooms.  Return on Buck Forest Road and on the left, take the second High Falls trail (past the gate) and another left to Triple Falls. Several opportunities to view waterfalls exist along this route. This is a popular area so be aware of other visitors. Return to Buck Forest Road to the left. 
* Turn right on Conservation Road and take the Pitch Pine trail on the left. 
* At the intersection with Three Lakes trail, take a left and pass Lake Alford. 
* Turn right on Conservation Road. 
* Take another right onto Buck Forest Road. 
* Continue on Buck Forest Road for just over two miles to White Pine Rd. 
* Turn left on White Pine and another left onto Hooker Creek. 
* At the intersection with Ridgeline, turn left to begin a fun downhill back to the parking lot or, turn right to do a loop of Hickory Mountain before descending Ridgeline.  
* At the bottom of Ridgeline, sharp right to return to the parking lot.

# Bike Shops
* [Sycamore Cycles](http://sycamorecycles.com/) In addition to top notch bicycle repair and parts, Crank, a coffee shop within its walls offers coffee, smoothies, and pastries to enjoy pre-ride
* [The Hub](http://www.thehubpisgah.com/) A cool vibe for post ride repairs and beer.

# More resources

[http://www.visitwaterfalls.com/](http://www.visitwaterfalls.com/) Additional information for visiting Brevard including hotels, restaurants, and other things to do.

# Important Reminders

* Cell reception is spotty throughout the forest. Let someone know where you are going.
* Bring enough water and food for the ride. Within the forest, there aren't any amenities.  Bring a purification method if you anticipate being out long.
* Check the weather prior to riding. Be aware of regular afteroon thunderstorms.
* No camping facilities exist with State Forest boundaries.
* Parking lots can be crowded during the summer, especially on the weekends.  Starting early is best.

Dupont Waterfalls

Route Overview

Route Details

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