Betsey's Rock Falls

Betsey's Rock Falls is a waterfall in the Blue Ridge Mountains featuring multiple cascades that descend steeply down the mountainside. The water drops through a series of dramatic steps, creating an impressive natural display.

The site is named after Betsey Pierce, a woman who lived near the falls during the Civil War period. She helped sustain her family by gathering and selling ginseng from the surrounding forest.

The falls remain connected to the heritage of Blue Ridge Mountain communities, representing the determination of early settlers in the Appalachian region.

The falls can be viewed from an accessible overlook along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Timing your visit after heavy rainfall will show the water at its most powerful.

The falls reach their greatest power in winter when bare branches open up views of the falling water. This season offers visitors the clearest sight of the cascade structure from the overlook.

Location: Wilkes County

GPS coordinates: 36.24930,-81.45430

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:05