The path to the falls is short, but over 150 steps at a sharp incline so this would not be an activity for those with limited physical abilities. However, if you are ready and able to take those steps, it's totally worth it! The falls are beautiful and are framed by mossy green boulders and other vegetation. It's a thigh-burner for this mid-lifer in mediocre shape, but worth it!

If you are looking for a way to stretch your legs, then this is it. Our GPS tried to take us on the final stretch via a road that no longer exists; Therefore, as you get closer, follow the signs that will lead you to the falls. There is plenty of parking for cars and RVs. Now as to getting to the falls on foot..... You will exercise muscles you did not know you had. The first stretch is relatively easy; A long set of wide concrete steps going straight up. A few hundred feet, equivalent to seven or eight stories. That is the warmup for what comes next. Big rocks, roots, slippery leaves. Kids just hopped along as if it were paved sidewalk, but as a person of 70 years, you will get a workout going from the stairs to the falls. Grab rocks, trees, roots, or hang on to a friend if you do not want to experience the shortcut back down. Just like the picture. It is worth the trip. If you are deciding which area falls to visit, then this is the one to see.

What a beautiful waterfall. I first visited in 2010 and it was beautiful then. We hiked yesterday after some rainfall in the area. The waterfall was really flowing. It’s 150 steps uphill to a short rocky trail to the falls where there is a viewing bridge. Great view of the falls and the stream below. The steps and trail are wide enough for others to pass on the way up or back. The access road is 1-1/4 miles south of Oconoluftee visitors center, then a short drive to Big Cove Road. The waterfall is about 3/4 mile past the new KOA campground. The parking lot is larger than it used to be as the campground at the falls has been abandoned. We also met some elk walking along Big Cove Road on the way out. Beautiful creatures.

I will stay by saying this place is beautiful. I wish the stairs up to the waterfall wernt so deep. But it was worth it. There is a bridge at the bottom of the falls. But to get under the falls you have to hike across water and rocks and trees that are very slippery. But just standing and watching the the water fall from the bridge is awesome.

Mingo Falls is a beautiful, tall waterfall. Plenty of parking. Short hike to the waterfall, maybe 10 mins. The first half is wide stairs then changes to ground. Trailhead is at the parking lot. Not good for strollers or wheelchairs. Well worth the short hike.

Great waterfall. They’ve made the parking lot much larger. Approximately 230 steps plus a short walk over uneven ground to get to viewing area of falls. Well worth the short hike.