Brewed at the Falls: A Coffee Hike Through DuPont’s Three Cascades
Sip, hike, and chase three signature cascades in North Carolina’s most beloved waterfall forest.
The morning starts with the quiet crunch of gravel underfoot and the low murmur of water doing what it’s done here for millennia—sliding, leaping, and shouldering through stone. At the Hooker Falls trailhead in DuPont State Recreational Forest, a small group falls into an easy rhythm beneath tulip poplars and hemlocks. The air is cool, scented with damp leaves and a hint of pine. Ahead, the Little River clears its throat and the first waterfall appears, rafters of white water fanning into a wide pool. Hooker Falls doesn’t tower; it welcomes. And right here on a flat shelf above the pool, the guide unpacks a stove, a kettle, and a hand grinder. The day’s first act is coffee.
Trail Wisdom
Beat the parking rush
Hooker Falls Access fills quickly on weekends and peak foliage days. Arrive before 9 a.m. for the smoothest start.
Wear real traction
Grippy trail shoes handle gravel climbs and damp overlooks better than casual sneakers.
Pack a dry layer
Waterfall spray chills fast, even in summer. A light synthetic layer keeps you comfortable during photo and coffee breaks.
Respect the railings
Slick rock near Triple and High Falls is dangerous year-round—enjoy the views from designated overlooks only.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The Covered Bridge above High Falls for a unique top-down view of the river
- •The mid-deck overlook at Triple Falls for perfect symmetry shots after the short spur trail
Wildlife
Pileated woodpeckers, White-tailed deer
Conservation Note
Stay on designated trails to limit erosion around fragile banks. Pack out all trash—including coffee grounds—to keep the Little River clear.
Once owned by the DuPont Corporation, the forest was purchased by the state after community advocacy. Scenes from The Hunger Games and The Last of the Mohicans were filmed at DuPont’s waterfalls.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflowers, Consistent flow
Challenges: Mud on shaded sections, Cool mornings
Fresh greenery and lively water make spring a standout; expect damp trails and pack a light rain shell.
summer
Best for: Family outings, Wading at Hooker (when allowed)
Challenges: Crowds, Heat and humidity
Shaded trails help with the heat. Start early to avoid parking woes and the midday rush at overlooks.
fall
Best for: Peak foliage, Crisp hiking temps
Challenges: Full parking lots, Variable water levels
October often brings the best color contrast against granite and whitewater—arrive early and plan extra time for photos.
winter
Best for: Quiet trails, Powerful post-rain flows
Challenges: Icy patches, Wind-chill at overlooks
With leaves down, views open up. Watch for ice on steps and bridges after freeze-thaw cycles.
Photographer's Notes
Capture the best shots at the right moments and locations.
What to Bring
Grippy Trail ShoesEssential
Wet overlooks and gravel climbs demand secure traction.
Lightweight Rain ShellEssential
Mountain weather turns quickly and waterfall spray adds chill during breaks.
Insulated Mug with Lid
Keeps your brew warm and spill-free during the waterfall coffee stop.
Collapsible Trekking Poles
Helpful on the two steep pitches and for stability on damp surfaces.
Common Questions
How long is the hike and how much elevation will we gain?
Plan on about 3.5 miles with roughly 450–550 feet of cumulative elevation gain, including two short but steep hills.
Can I bring my dog?
Leashed dogs are allowed on DuPont trails, but check with the guide before booking to confirm pets are permitted on this group hike.
Is swimming allowed at the waterfalls?
Wading and swimming are sometimes allowed at Hooker Falls’ pool when water levels are safe; swimming near Triple or High Falls is prohibited due to dangerous currents. Always obey posted signs.
Are restrooms available?
Yes. Restrooms are typically available at the Hooker Falls Access parking area, but there are no facilities on the trail.
What about the coffee—can you accommodate decaf or non-dairy?
Coffee is brewed on-site during the hike. If you prefer decaf or non-dairy options, request it when booking so the guide can plan accordingly.
What if the weather turns bad?
Light rain usually doesn’t cancel the hike, but severe weather or high water may prompt rescheduling for safety. Your guide will confirm any changes.
What to Pack
Trail shoes with grip for damp overlooks; Lightweight rain shell for spray and pop-up showers; Refillable water bottle (even with coffee, you’ll want hydration); Small towel or bandana to dry hands and camera gear after misty viewpoints.
Did You Know
DuPont State Recreational Forest protects more than 12,000 acres and over 80 miles of trails—Triple Falls and nearby Bridal Veil Falls appeared in The Hunger Games (2012).
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive before 9 a.m. on weekends to secure parking; Check the DuPont State Forest site for trail advisories after storms; Bring small bills—there’s no entrance fee, but nearby vendors sometimes prefer cash; Expect limited cell service once you leave the parking area.
Local Flavor
Back in Brevard, refuel at The Square Root for Southern fare with a twist, then walk to Broad Street’s Cup & Saucer for a pastry. Beer lovers gravitate to Oskar Blues’ Tasty Weasel taproom or Ecusta Brewing for post-hike pints. If you’ve still got legs, cruise the greenway that connects town to Pisgah Forest and the bike-friendly Hub & Pisgah Tavern.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Asheville Regional (AVL), ~40 minutes by car. Trailhead: Hooker Falls Access Area off Staton Rd. Driving: ~20 minutes from downtown Brevard; ~55 minutes from Asheville. Cell service: Spotty to none on trail. Permits: None required; parking is free but fills early. Facilities: Restrooms at trailhead only.
Sustainability Note
Water here feeds downstream communities—filter responsibly, never wash gear in streams, and keep to established overlooks to protect mossy seeps and riverbank vegetation.
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