Otter Falls

A cascade over a large, mossy boulder free-falls a short distance into some smaller cascades, ending in a small pool underneath another large, overhanging boulder. The falls splits into two main streams during normal to high flows. Unfortunately, a large, ugly observation platform juts out over the falls at river left, obscuring the view of one of the streams. While it provides a safe place to view the falls, it ruins a lot of potential photo compositions if you don't want to include it. Nevertheless, the scenery in the cove is outstanding and the falls itself is beautiful, so it's well worth the short hike required to see it.

Driving Directions

From the junction of NC Hwy 105 and Seven Devils Road (SR 1151) in Banner Elk (at the Speedway gas station and Dunkin Donuts), take the winding Seven Devils Road up the mountain for 2 miles to the parking area on the left. (SR 1151 becomes Skyland Drive at Town Hall). The park is well-signed and easy to spot.

Direct your GPS to 825 Skyland Dr., Seven Devils, NC 28604.