The Cullasaja Gorge presents one with the
impression that it was cleaved in a moment of anger. Narrow and deep, the Cullasaja River
rushes and drops in a series of cascades and waterfalls in its maddened frenzy to
mate with the Tennessee River near Franklin. Departing from Highlands, west on US-64, you will drive by (and stop at?) three major
waterfalls: Bridal
Veil Falls, Dry
Falls and Cullasaja
Falls.
The highway clings to the north bank of the
Cullasaja River as though it knew what would happen if it let go. Though the road is
narrow and the curves are frequent and sharp, it can be a pleasant drive. There are many
places to pull off, get out and soak up the views of this beautiful river. Not recommended
for large recreational vehicles.