The Adventure:
How many people can say they have stood on top of the tallest waterfall east of the Rockies. The upper falls drop 411 feet giving it the record, however the entire cascade plummets 811 feet over 2 miles which is also pretty impressive.
There are 2 overlooks at the end of the quarter mile paved walkway. The first one is at the end of the path while the second one is 154 steps below you. They say there is a spur trail that drops 600 feet in half a mile to the base of the falls at the end of these stairs, but I didn't see it when I was there. Since several people have died here already - I saved my adventure for this:
On the left side of the upper overlook there is an overgrown path which looks to be an old forest road. It travels the ridge and ends at the top of the upper falls. It's an easy stroll and pretty killer to be at the top of these massive falls.
Type:
Out and Back
Distance:
Not sure, but it's less than a mile round trip. Elevation change is negligible.
Parking:
Park at the Whitewater Falls parking area. There is a $2 fee based on the honor system.
Gear:
The usuals + your smarts
Don't Forget:
This isn't an official trail, however it's quite easy to follow. It's not for kids - the risks simply aren't worth it. When you arrive at the falls, there are steep, slick cliffs and slopes. Keep in mind at any point you're a fall away from death. I take considerable risks and do not give warnings out lightly, but they're well deserved here. Use caution. There are less dangerous places to get to the river bank upstream.
My Take:
The views from the top are worth the risk, but the risk is considerable. Please use common sense and do not take pets or kids on this one.
Photos:
