If you’re looking for a memorable adventure with kids, the High Falls dam release is hard to beat!
A few times each year, the dam at Lake Glenville releases water and completely transforms the normally calm High Falls (also known as Cullowee Falls) near Cashiers, North Carolina. As water surges down the river, the flow over the falls increases dramatically. And what is normally a steady cascade suddenly becomes a powerful wall of water pouring over the cliff.
It’s incredible to watch and something kids remember long after the day is over. Experienced whitewater kayakers add to fun by running the base of the waterfall during the release. Watching them paddle through the turbulent Class IV rapids is a bit like seeing an outdoor adventure show in real life.
Want to see the action for yourself? Here are a few tips for planning a visit.
2026 High Falls Dam Release Schedule
Duke Energy releases the dam at Lake Glenville a few times a year. Here’s the 2026 schedule:
- April 25-26
- June 13
- July 4
- July 25
- August 8
- August 29
Releases run from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
The dam releases have become popular over the years, so arrive early to find a good viewing spot. As the release time gets closer, it gets crowded with people looking for a place along the river.
Dress to get wet, and consider bringing a change of clothes. Depending on where you sit, you’ll get a bit damp to downright soaked. I sat on a large rock beside the trailhead and got drenched. The rushing water kicks up a stiff wind, and it feels like sitting in the middle of a tropical storm. That may sound scary, but it’s a huge thrill to see, hear, and feel the power of so much water rushing over the cliff and down the river. I loved every minute of it, and couldn’t keep from grinning! It’s a truly indescribable experience.
Hiking to High Falls
There are two ways to reach the falls.
One option is the official High Falls Trail, which starts near The Pines Recreation Area at Lake Glenville. This trail crosses Duke Energy land and is about 1.6 miles out and back. It’s a scenic trail with plenty of parking, but steep and rocky in places. Because of the terrain, it may not be ideal for small children, older visitors, or anyone with limited mobility. When you hike back up the trail, you’ll need to make way for kayakers heading down.
To reach this trailhead, head to Pines Recreation Area at 1966 Pine Creek Road, Cullowhee, NC.
Another option is the easier, unofficial route from Shoal Creek Mountain Road. This route is about 3.9 miles out and back. To reach this trailhead, take NC 107 North for about eight miles if you’re coming from Cashiers, then make a sharp left onto Shoal Creek Mountain Road. After about 300 feet, you’ll see the trail start behind an orange gate on the right. There’s no official parking area, and most people park along the shoulder of the narrow gravel road.
A Few Important Safety Tips
The High Falls dam release is a really fun event, but the rising water is powerful, and it’s important to stay safe. Here are few things to keep in mind:
- Do not sit on rocks in the middle of the river. They may look safe at first, but once the water rises those rocks disappear quickly. People have been stranded and required rescue.
- Keep an eye on the time, and listen for the dam release siren signaling the water is coming.
- Stay back from the river’s edge once the release begins. The water becomes fast and very turbulent. You will be washed away or battered against rocks if you fall in.
- Stay on the same side of the river you came in on. Once the water rises, it’s impossible to cross safely, and you’ll be stuck on the opposite side for hours.
High Falls is a one-and-a-half to two-hour drive from downtown Greenville. Though it requires an early morning and a bit of drive, the dam release is well worth seeing. Stay safe and enjoy the show!
Want to make a day or weekend of it? See our guide of things to do in Lake Glenville.