💦 Waterfall Plunge Pool
🟡 Moderate Free Entry
🌊 About Fires Creek / Leatherwood Falls
A network of creek swimming spots in the Fires Creek watershed, including Leatherwood Falls, in the far southwestern corner of the state.
📋 Visit Details
Water Temperature
💧 Cool, clear
Best Season
📅 Spring–fall
Water Type
Creek swimming spots & waterfall
Managed By
US Forest Service (Nantahala National Forest)
County
Clay County, North Carolina
Access Difficulty
🟡 Moderate
🗺️ Getting There
Address / Access Point:
Fires Creek Recreation Area, near Hayesville, NC
Access Notes:
Moderate hiking to reach Leatherwood Falls
✅ Before You Go — Checklist
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Check current water conditions — especially after recent rain
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Save GPS coordinates offline before leaving — cell service may be limited
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Pack reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, water shoes and plenty of drinking water
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Tell someone where you are going before heading to a remote location
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Pack out everything you bring in — leave no trace