White Owl Falls Trail

Directions: From the intersection of US64 and NC281 south in the Lake Toxaway area, turn south on 281 and drive 3.6 miles (passing the entrance to Gorges State Park on the left) to Brewer Rd (SR 1189) on the left. Pull off, but don't drive down Brewer Rd. Instead, park in the wide area next to the bank at the top of the road next to 281. It's paved and there's room for several vehicles here. There's no official trail or signs here indicating that there are waterfalls in this area. This is also the same area you would park to hike the waterfalls on the Thompson River. Or, drive another 0.1 miles and there's a gravel pull of on the right side of 281 and begin the hike from there. Begin the hike by heading south down 281 along the left side of the road. Keep hiking down 281 around the bend towards the 1st power pole. At the point where the guard rail begins on the left near that pole, cross the guard rail and look for the concrete drainage slab. You'll hear the waterfall at this point. Follow the trail down and pick up the small path at the base of the rocks (rip-rap) used to support the road bed. Follow the trail to the top of the falls, then down to the base. It's a little tricky here and will be slippery if wet. The trail comes out just past the pool below the falls and you'll have to wade across to get a good view.