Daniel Ridge Loop | A Davidson River and Waterfall Hike in Pisgah

Our Favorite Western NC Mountain Hikes | Asheville Elevated Living

Daniel Ridge is a good pick when you want a proper walk in the woods with a waterfall along the way. The Davidson River, a steady climb up Lanning Branch and a drop back to the valley make for a varied half-day outing.

Daniel Ridge Loop main trail photo — Photos via AllTrails and its hiking community.

Hike at a glance

Pisgah National Forest near Brevard
4.7 miles | 816 feet of gain | Moderate loop | 2 to 2.5 hours

What the hike is like

Start at the gated Daniel Ridge trailhead off Forest Road 475 and cross the Davidson River bridge. Follow the red-blazed loop along the river, then climb away from the valley along Lanning Branch. At the Farlow Gap junction, keep to Daniel Ridge and watch for blazes where the route turns through the wildlife openings.

The waterfall goes by several names, including Toms Spring Falls, Jackson Falls and Daniel Ridge Falls. Use your map to spot the short gravel-road detour at the lower junction. The Forest Service lists the core loop at 4 miles, while the saved AllTrails route is 4.7 miles.

Before you go

The route is shared with mountain bikers. Keep your dog leashed, leave the gate clear when parking and save the route before you drive in, since cell service can be patchy.