After the most lovely engagement session in Linville, North Carolina, on a spectacular September afternoon, could not pass up a quick detour to Linville Falls. I love any chance I get to adventure in Linville, whether down in the gorge, up on the vistas, or in the adorable towns nearby. There was enough time for a little escape so I took off to sit by the upper falls for a bit, then hiked the rest of the the 1.6 mile in and back Erwin's View and Linville falls overlook trail. This trail first led me to the upper falls, a set of cascades surrounded by the most amazing stratified rock formations. Back up the steps and continuing up the hill led me to four different overlooks with views of the falls and wilderness areas below.
This iconic waterfall is rated one of the best waterfalls in North Carolina. The 90 foot drop makes for a dramatic sight as the water gushes through the stratified rock created by the Linville Fault. This fault is visible on the rock face the falls cut through. The never ending variety of landscapes, flora, and fauna in western North Carolina never ceases to amaze me. Each overlook's perspective was unique and worth the time to visit...wishing I had been able to stay longer. The rugged wilderness of the Linville Gorge forever calls me to come back soon to explore again.
The first signs of fall are starting to show and it is going to be a spectacular season! The bright red pops of early color from the red maple trees were impossible to ignore while trekking through a world of green. The sun illuminated the crimson leaves on the trail, making me stop in my tracks to attempt to capture that magical sight. I love that the forests will soon be painted in the colors of autumn and I cannot wait to try to to justice to it all through my lens. Here I stand at this beginning of yet another turning of the season, still in awe and ready to witness and photograph the beauty in the changes ahead.
If you get to visit the gorge or any natural place, remember to leave no trace - pack out what you bring with you and take only photos/video. Linville can be a very popular place especially on weekends, and if going to explore the gorge, many of the roads are best in a 4 wheel drive vehicle with lots of ground clearance - and patience for others out for adventures on the road or on the trail. Linville Gorge is a wilderness area, so not many trails are marked and if you go you need to be prepared in all the ways.
I hope you enjoy getting to join me on this mini adventure to some gorgeous views of Linville Falls. Get in touch if you would like to take a photo workshop/adventure, have questions about photo sessions, workshops, or ordering custom prints. Happy adventures!