Lower Rhapsodie Falls

Gated old road off NC 281 near Lake Toxaway, unofficial trail across the West Fork French Broad River to Lower Rhapsodie Falls

Rich Stevenson places the power lines at about 1 mile, the river crossing about a quarter mile later, and the falls about 0.1 miles beyond the river, about 1.4 miles each way. The source gives 4 to 5 miles round trip for all five waterfalls on the route.

Unmaintained trail that can be muddy, several small creek crossings and a rock hop across the river. Expect some downed trees.

Where to start

From the junction of US 64 and NC 281 North in Lake Toxaway, drive 6.2 miles north on NC 281 and turn left on an unnamed road (in 2018 it was the access road for Trails Carolina). Stay right on the one-lane track, which ends shortly at a small parking area and a Forest Service gate. Waterfall Hero describes the same gravel spur off Winding Gap Road.

Timing & water

No closure is stated. The accounts are from 2015 and August 2018, so trail conditions since then are unknown. The river crossing is harder in high water.

Before you go

The trail starts at a Forest Service gate; no fee is stated by the sources.