As mentioned in a previous post [link], Smoky Mountain NP was too crowded for us, so the next day we changed gears and headed south to Lake Toxaway, an area we’ve driven past but hadn’t explored on earlier trips to western NC.

Our first stop was Little Deep Ford Falls, located roadside in a golf community with beautiful views.

Toxaway Falls is a bit hard to photograph as the best vantage point is on private property. Eric managed to get this panoramic shot from the hillside by the road.

Heading north from the lake on Cold Mountain Road, we stopped at a faint pull-out and had Raven Rock Falls (plus two bonus roadside waterfalls) all to ourselves.

The mountains were coming alive with color and there were gorgeous views all around. Pasha even enjoyed the scenery while waiting for Eric to return to the car.

A lovely way to spend an afternoon, and a reminder that we need to get back to this part of NC to try out several other trails.