Catawba Falls (Pisgah National Forest)
A 2.1-mile round-trip hike along the Catawba River leads to a 100-foot waterfall with a smaller pool at the base that's perfect for a doggie paddle. The trail can get rocky, especially after rain, so sturdy footwear (for both of you) is a must. According to this local waterfall guide, it's one of the best scenic-payoff hikes in the region.
Hooker Falls (DuPont State Recreational Forest)
DuPont is a favorite for both hikers and swimmers, and Hooker Falls is one of the few spots in the forest where swimming is officially permitted. The pool at the base is large and relatively calm, making it a great option for dogs who like to wade rather than battle a current. Just remember—dogs must stay leashed throughout DuPont. Fun fact: this waterfall appeared in The Last of the Mohicans.
Graveyard Fields (Blue Ridge Parkway)
This easy 3.2-mile loop trail leads to two waterfalls—Second Falls and Upper Falls—with swimming holes that are popular in summer. In June, you'll also catch the rhododendrons in bloom, making this one of the prettiest hikes of the season. Per About Asheville's waterfall roundup, it's especially family- (and dog-) friendly.
Sliding Rock
If your dog loves a splash, Sliding Rock is hard to beat—an 11,000-gallon-per-minute natural waterslide ending in an 8-foot pool. Dogs on leashes are welcome, though it gets crowded on summer weekends, so an early morning or weekday visit is your best bet. 
A few safety reminders
Before you head out, keep a few things in mind: most national forest trails require dogs to be leashed, rocks around waterfalls are often slick, and currents can be stronger than they look—especially after heavy rain. Always check current conditions before you go, and never let your dog near the top of a waterfall. RomanticAsheville.com's pet-friendly guide is a great resource for up-to-date rules across local forests and parks.
After a day of splashing in the mountains, there's nothing better than coming back to a cozy cabin where your dog can shake off, dry out, and relax. At Barkwells, our cabins and cottages sit on private, fenced acreage just a short drive from Pisgah National Forest, with outdoor spaces designed with wet, happy dogs in mind. We provide plenty of dog towels and even have a dog-washing station at our Mills River campus, so cleanup after your adventure is easy. Come explore the waterfalls of Western North Carolina, and come home to a place built just for you and your pup.
