DuPont State Recreational Forest (DSRF) has reopened the popular foot traffic only Triple Falls Trail following temporary repairs.
“Hurricane Helene created a historic level of flooding across western North Carolina including the Little River watershed that contains well known waterfalls such as Triple Falls and High Falls,” said Jason Guidry, forest supervisor for DSRF. “The flooding extended into the lower section of Triple Falls Trail, causing severe and deep erosion.”
The Triple Falls steps were partially washed away by Hurricane Helene flooding. The remaining steps have been inspected by an engineering firm and will require extensive repairs or replacement to be safe for public use. This area remains closed to the public and has been fenced off.
“We are excited to reopen Triple Falls Trail to our visitors,” said Jane Dauster, recreation specialist for DSRF. “Unfortunately, we are not yet able to reopen the hurricane damaged Grassy Creek bridge or the Triple Falls steps.”
Grassy Creek bridge is at the intersection of Buck Forest Road and Lake Imaging Road. During Hurricane Helene, flooding piled debris against the side of the bridge, causing tremendous pressure to the bridge and forcing water to both sides, resulting in deep streambank erosion into the stream channel. Engineers have inspected the bridge and determined that the bridge is unsafe for use. Designers are developing plans for a new Grassy Creek bridge. DSRF officials anticipate new bridge construction in early 2026. Until then, this area remains fenced off and closed to the public due to safety concerns and to protect nearby natural habitats.
“We ask that visitors respect the closures that we have clearly marked for Grassy Creek bridge and Triple Falls steps,” said Guidry. “We’ve had several individuals ignore our signs, and they have left the forest with tickets that include fees, fines and possible criminal charges.”
DSRF officials estimate that more than 700,000 people hike Triple Falls Trail every year. The less than half-mile long trail is only open to foot traffic and allows visitors to hike to Hooker Falls, Triple Falls and High Falls from a single access area.
Visitors wishing to hike Triple Falls Trail should park at the Hooker Falls access area or the High Falls access area. In addition, visitors are encouraged to visit https://www.ncagr.gov/divisions/nc-forest-service/state-forests/dupont-state-recreational-forest for the latest information about trail closures when planning a visit to DSRF.
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