Chalet

Unique Waterfall Chalet with Decks Over the Falls in Nantahala, Pet Friendly!

Chalet in Franklin

Photo gallery for Unique Waterfall Chalet with Decks Over the Falls in Nantahala, Pet Friendly!

Ledford Falls, rushing and full with spring thaws!
Enjoy a large deck for alfresco dining over the falls!
Exterior of Cabin
The waterfall flow varies depending on precipitation and time of year!
Welcoming front porch to great our guests!

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 51500 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space

Explore the area

View in a map
Franklin, NC
  • Place, Cullasaja Falls
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Jackson Hole Gem Mine
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Lake Glenville
    ‪12 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Hair dryer

Downstairs Bath

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area

About this property

Unique Waterfall Chalet with Decks Over the Falls in Nantahala, Pet Friendly!

Perched directly above the cascading waters of Ledford Branch Falls, this two bedroom, one and a half bath mountain chalet offers a truly unforgettable setting with sweeping waterfall views from an expansive network of decks. Tucked into a quiet cove of rustic mountain cabins, the Waterfall Chalet is one of the most distinctive and sought after retreats in the North Carolina mountains. Spend your days relaxing on the decks as the sound of rushing water fills the air, dip your toes in the cool, crystal clear mountain stream at the base of the falls, or if you are feeling adventurous, sit beneath the waterfall itself. In the evenings, landscape lighting illuminates the falls for dramatic nighttime views, creating a magical atmosphere year round.

Inside, the chalet is thoughtfully appointed to ensure a comfortable and carefree stay. The open concept main level features hardwood floors, cozy rustic furnishings, and a charming stone fireplace with gas logs. A large dining table and ample seating make it easy to gather with family or friends. The living room includes a large smart TV with streaming access, Wi Fi, and a landline telephone. The fully equipped kitchen has been nicely updated with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and stylish lighting, and comes stocked with cookware, dishes, coffee maker, tea kettle, blender, and more.

The loft style primary suite upstairs offers a king size bed and a private half bath, while the first floor guest bedroom features a queen size bed and its own TV with Roku. The full bath includes a tub and shower combination and a unique double vanity with stone vessel sinks. The cabin is fully stocked with linens, bedding, and towels for your convenience. Outdoor living is a highlight, with a patio set and gas grill for dining outdoors while overlooking the waterfall. Additional amenities include a full size laundry room and covered parking beneath the carport.

Walking trails wind through the five acre property and are ideal for a peaceful stroll, and guests are welcome to try gem mining or fishing in the creek above and below the falls.

Ideally located in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest, the cabin sits midway between Highlands, Franklin, and Lake Glenville. Easy paved access directly off Walnut Creek Road makes the property accessible in all seasons. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the proximity to world class hiking, camping, and fishing, all within a thirty minute drive. Lake Glenville is just five miles away and features a newly redesigned beachfront area perfect for swimming. Winter guests will appreciate the easy drive to skiing and sledding in Sky Valley, while Highlands offers exceptional shopping and world class dining. The waterfall drive to Highlands is an unforgettable experience with dramatic scenery through the gorge. Franklin is known as the gem capital of the Smokies and offers fun museums, gem mines, and a charming downtown with casual eateries.

For larger groups, a rustic bunkhouse on the property is available to rent in conjunction with the Waterfall Chalet. The bunkhouse features two bedrooms and one and a half baths and comfortably sleeps six guests. The main level includes a queen bedroom and full bath, while the upstairs loft offers two king size beds and a half bath. It has a simple and clean interior with a combined living and dining area, a well equipped kitchen, brand new heating and air conditioning, and a TV with DVD player and movie library. Please note the bunkhouse does not have Wi Fi and is not rented separately. Inquire for rates and additional photos.

Pets are welcome at the Waterfall Chalet with prior approval and an additional fee. Due to the steep decking, multiple stairways, and the large waterfall on the property, the cabin is generally not recommended for young children. Guests should be comfortable navigating stairs, as access to the main entrance requires them.

Please be aware that due to Hurricane Helene, the State of North Carolina Department of Transportation is currently repairing critical infrastructure in the area, which has impacted Walnut Creek Road. There may be road work occurring during your stay. A temporary stop light has been installed at the base of Stockton Road as part of this project. The work is currently estimated to be completed in Fall of 2026. Construction activity takes place during the workday and, to date, has not impacted any of our guests’ stays.

Important Property Notes and Guest Expectations

This is a true mountain cabin set in a natural environment. Wildlife, insects, and changing weather conditions are part of the experience.

The property features steep terrain, multiple stairways, elevated decks, and a large natural waterfall. Adult supervision is required at all times when outdoors. Guests should be comfortable navigating stairs and uneven surfaces.

The waterfall is a natural feature and water levels may vary based on recent rainfall and seasonal conditions.

Cell service can be limited in mountain areas depending on carrier, though Wi Fi is provided at the main cabin.

The cabin is accessed via stairs to the main entrance and may not be suitable for guests with mobility limitations.

Indoor gas fireplace is on a remote and timer, with auto-shut off.

Outdoor lighting, including the waterfall illumination, may adjust seasonally.

The bunkhouse is located separately on the property and is only available when rented together with the Waterfall Chalet. It does not have Wi Fi.

Guests are encouraged to purchase travel insurance for weather related or unforeseen disruptions.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet friendly
Air conditioning
Outdoor Space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 13-17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Set thermostats to 67. Make sure lights& fireplace are off.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock

We should mention

This property does not have elevators
A car is required for transportation to and from this property

About the neighborhood

Franklin

Located in Franklin, this chalet is near theme parks and on the waterfront. Jackson Hole Gem Mine and Arrowmont Stables are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Highlands Biological Station and Tessentee Bottomland Preserve. Ruby City Gems & Minerals and Parker Meadows Park are also worth visiting. Be sure to check out the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Franklin, NC

What's nearby

  • Cullasaja Falls - 7 min drive - 8.1 km
  • Jackson Hole Gem Mine - 8 min drive - 8.5 km
  • Lake Glenville - 12 min drive - 11.6 km
  • Dry Falls - 15 min drive - 18.2 km
  • Bridal Veil Falls - 15 min drive - 18.9 km

Getting around

  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) - 88 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Oak Steakhouse - ‬27 min drive
  • ‪Jersey Mike’s Subs - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪KFC - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Asian King - ‬18 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Unique Waterfall Chalet, Decks Over Huge Waterfall in the Nantahala! Pets OK! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Unique Waterfall Chalet, Decks Over Huge Waterfall in the Nantahala! Pets OK! ?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Unique Waterfall Chalet, Decks Over Huge Waterfall in the Nantahala! Pets OK! ?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Unique Waterfall Chalet, Decks Over Huge Waterfall in the Nantahala! Pets OK! located?

Situated on the waterfront, this chalet is steps from Nantahala National Forest, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Cullasaja Falls and Jackson Hole Gem Mine. Lake Glenville and Arrowmont Stables are also within 9 mi (15 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 92 out of 102 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 102 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 102 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 102 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 102 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Matthew L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The chalet is beautiful and the position next to the falls makes for a relaxing environment. Joa and Nancy were incredible hosts.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

pete m.

Very comfortable, clean and a great location. Would certainly come back again. VRBO.
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lauren N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend getaway

This stay was absolutely magical! The waterfall view was so stunning. The property was so beautiful and the hosts were so communicative! I cannot recommend this place enough!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Magdalene J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This Little Water Fall house was one of the best getaways we have ever had! The Waterfall and Walkways are Absolutely Beautiful. The homeowners have thought of every little detail. We rarely left during our stay. The homeowners are easy to communicate with and We are greatful for them sharing their home.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paula K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I would definitely recommend this cabin to anyone who loves waterfalls. There’s a cute waterfall right by the house plus it’s in a vicinity where many waterfalls are available to see. The house is cozy and very clean and everything is pretty easy to figure out. It’s also very private. I had a wonderful day and would definitely rent this cabin again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gerald M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great 2 weeks here. The house was very cozy and welcoming inside. We had our med size doggo with us and he really enjoyed all of the new smells around the cabin and hanging out on the deck listening to the waterfall. All of the amenities were in good shape, and we cooked quite a few meals there. The only, very minor, snag was that the "book of directions" mentioned satellite tv. As far as we could tell, there is no tv service. You need to stream news shows from Asheville, or plug in your Amazon / Netflix, etc acct info and use it that way. Again, very minor, but a difference from the instructions. We really appreciate Joa and Nancy offering their home for us and if we decide to return, we would definitely look for the Little Waterfall House again!
Stayed 17 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

alejandro m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Creeck fall cabin

Beautiful cabin very cozy.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

L E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Waterfall Cabin

Excellent location! The cabin is close to everything! Though, I have to admit it was hard to leave the sound of the waterfall. It was a very sweet spot. Serene and tranquil.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mark H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Restful Retreat

The place is situated right in the creek and beautiful waterfall. The house is kitted out with everything we needed for a weekend stay. We used the broil, the fireplace, the big tv, and the kitchen. Excellent hosts.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Benjamin V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Honeymoon

Great stay and loved the waterfall!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2024

6/10 Okay

Jim M.

Liked: Check-in, communication, listing accuracy
At 70 yrs.old, the entrance steps were very difficult to manage. We had to haul coolers and lugguge up over 20 steps. Wish we had warning about steps in description. It was cold and the fireplace only worked 4.5 hours out of our 3 night stay. Very uncomfortable and disappointing. We'd have stayed longer if we had been comfortable. We were warned ahead of time of construction & big machinery right in front of cabin. We were fortunate for the holiday and work at a standstill. The cabin smelled musty when we arrived and we had to open doors for a few hours. Dust and dog hair clogged intake vents, under furniture, behind beds. Made me feel like I was living in strangers germs left behind. It was surface clean, but needed deep cleaning to be rented to public. Being asked to haul away our trash was a nuisance. On the plus side, the deck is lovely, waterfall relaxing, well stocked with cooking supplies, nice cabin and the manager responded after 2 nights (Thanksgiving) to work on pilot light but it was only lit a few hours before going out again. With these issues taken care of it would be a nice stay. All in all, for us, it was disappointing.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Fred S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unique Waterfall Chalet

Great location and the waterfall was awesome. The cabin was set up very nice and the deck was great. It was very comfortable, fireplace was nice and even used the grill one night. We would definitely recommend this property and would stay there again.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cristi C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great weekend getaway

The chalet overlooking the waterfall was incredible. It had all of the comforts of home plus gorgeous views!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Charles H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect mountain retreat

The cabin is perfect and the waterfall that flows by it is so relaxing. We can’t imagine a more desirable experience. We hope to return with family and friends to share with.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Thomas H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place

We had a great time & we loved the place . Thanks
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Janet B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing Cabin & Waterfall

We really enjoyed this property. The waterfall was great and cabin was nice and roomy.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nathan D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful

The waterfall and really the whole property is beautiful.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stephen K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Waterfall cabin

Great location!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Andree S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

October leaves

Had an amazing stay at the cabin. Second visit to this property and absolutely love it! Clean, well stocked with linens & kitchen & location is perfect! Weather was wonderful. This is my happy place! Hope to be back next year.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend getaway

Great place for a quiet getaway. Very clean and well supplied. Loved the deck overlooking the waterfall-peaceful and relaxing!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Thomas S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Anniversary Trip

Great place. Beautiful waterfall. Convenient location. Comfortable.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Naomi L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing

Beautiful cabin with amazing relaxing view of waterfall and stream. We very much enjoyed our getaway!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tim V.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

Mountain Retreat

If you want the sounds of a waterfall to put you to sleep each night this is the place! Great location-the deck is spacious and has great views !
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jenny S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful view

Nice cabin with a beautiful view. The waterfall is amazing and the deck that overlooks it was comfortable and peaceful. Kitchen had everything we needed. Great stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ingrid W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Totally relaxing weekend

Beautiful cabin, and just like the description it sits right over the waterfall. We spent most of our time on the deck facing the waterfall in the comfy Adirondack chairs. The location is very convenient, easy to find and well within short, traveling distance to many hiking and tourist opportunities. A beautiful place and we would definitely stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

About the host

Hosted by Joa Kelly and Nancy Lohnes

Host profile image
I bought this cabin in 2003 with my family for our perfect mountain retreat from the long, hot Savannah GA summers! My wife and I often bring our two dogs, Ginger the bassett and Rodeo the lab, with us to the cabin and they love running and playing at the base of the waterfall. This picture is of us on the deck. We think this is one of the most relaxing places in the world -- to leave the doors and windows open at night and hear the rush of the waterfall is one of my greatest joys! We love to go hiking on one of the many world class trails in the area, and come home in the evening to grill out on the deck and relax. We are thrilled to be able to share our special place with family, friends and guests and hope you love the waterfall cabin as much as we do!

Why they chose this property

We have never seen another property that has its own waterfall. It is a magical place.

What makes this property unique

We love listen to the rushing waterfall, read and relax on the decks!
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