Dupont State Forest, just a short drive from Brevard, North Carolina, invites hikers to immerse themselves in some of the region’s most rewarding waterfall and wildflower encounters. The forest’s network of trails threads through cool, shaded paths where streams and waterfalls demand your attention, and wildflowers punctuate spring and early summer with bursts of color. This isn’t just a walk in the woods — it’s a practical adventure that tests your stamina and rewards your senses.

Start with the High Falls Loop, a roughly 3.2-mile trek with an elevation gain of around 400 feet. The trail mixes gravel and packed dirt, winding past hardwoods that arch overhead like gatekeepers. Here, the waterfalls roar and splash, daring you to pause and appreciate their relentless energy. Not far lies Hooker Falls, accessible via a short 0.5-mile hike from the Visitor Center. This 14-foot cascade is ideal for a quick nature break or a splash if conditions allow.

Later in spring, wildflowers like trillium and violets make the forest floor come alive beneath the towering pines. Keep an eye out for patches of flame azalea and mountain laurel that edge the paths. The scent is subtle but persistent, a quiet companion along the trail.

Trail conditions vary, moving from forested slopes to open ridges with sweeping views where the wind itself seems to push you forward. The terrain is manageable but expect some roots and rocks along the way, requiring steady footing and solid shoes.

Hydration is critical—not just because of the miles but the elevation shifts that demand more from your lungs and legs. A good pair of hiking shoes with grip and ankle support will keep you steady, while layered clothing prepares you for the forest’s fluctuating temperatures. Starting early maximizes daylight and gives you the chance to catch waterfalls mostly undisturbed.

Dupont invites those ready to engage with nature on its own terms. The waterfalls don’t pause, and the wildflowers don’t wait, but both offer an experience that’s fiercely alive. Respect the forest’s movement, tread lightly, and you’ll come away with more than just photos; you’ll carry a sense of being part of a vibrant, unyielding outdoor world.