Gorges State Park, State park in Sapphire Valley, North Carolina, US.
Description
Gorges State Park is a protected area in North Carolina covering thousands of acres of mountain forest with deep gorges, steep drops, and multiple waterfalls. The landscape is crisscrossed by hiking trails that connect different scenic points through varied terrain.
History
The land remained in private ownership until 1999 when North Carolina acquired it and established protection measures. The main purpose was to safeguard local water resources and preserve the natural ecosystems.
Culture
Native American tribes of the region maintained settlements near water sources within the current park boundaries before European colonization reached these mountains.
Practical
The park maintains more than 30 kilometers of marked trails ranging from easy to challenging for different fitness levels. Visitors should come prepared with sturdy footwear and water, as the mountain terrain requires good physical condition.
Did you know?
Rainbow Falls within the park drops about 150 feet and creates a persistent mist below. Visitors who arrive during sunny mornings often see rainbow patterns formed by light passing through the spray.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (North Carolina).
Lake Jocassee
12.2 km
Sassafras Mountain
13.1 km
Table Rock State Park
20 km
Devils Fork State Park
13.3 km
Art Loeb Trail
23.7 km
Foothills Trail
13.3 km
Turtleback Falls
4.8 km
Rainbow Falls
4.7 kmPisgah Astronomical Research Institute
15.1 km
Upper Whitewater Falls
9.6 km
Ellicott Rock Wilderness
18 km
Pinnacle Mountain
16.9 km
Camp Merrie-Woode
13.2 km
Courthouse Falls
22.6 km
Connestee Falls and Batson Creek Falls
20.2 km
Eastatoe Falls
10.6 kmSilver Run Falls
13.2 km
Church of the Good Shepherd
15.3 km
E. M. Backus Lodge
12.3 km
Corbin Creek Falls
9 km
Table Rock Civilian Conservation Corps Camp Site
21 km
Hillmont
8.4 km
Zachery-Tolbert house
14.7 km
Lake Toxaway Methodist Church
7.8 km
Flem Galloway House
13.7 km
Civilian Conservation Corps Quarry No. 2
19.5 km
Hanckel-Barclay House
22.2 km
PARI 26m radio telescope
15.2 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes