Dupont State Forest, NC
Waterfall country — Hooker Falls, Triple Falls & Lake Dense
🚗 2½–3 hours from Johnson City · ~125 miles from Johnson City · Johnson City via I-26 S, I-40 W toward Brevard / Cedar Mountain
Best season: Spring flow; fall color Oct
Getting there
Get driving directions from Johnson City ↗ · Open in Google Maps ↗
Map shows Dupont State Forest, NC. Times vary from Kingsport and Bristol.
Dupont is where Hollywood filmed Hunger Games waterfall scenes — Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, and High Falls are the headliners on a network of forest roads and trails.
Parking is permit-based and fills fast — arrive before 9am on peak weekends or accept a long walk from overflow.
Highlights
- Hooker Falls — easy walk, swim hole (seasonal)
- Triple Falls & High Falls loop
- Lake Dense kayaking & picnics
- Bridal Veil Falls (drive-under waterfall nearby)
Sample one-day itinerary
Leave Tri-Cities by 6:30am; park at Hooker Falls lot first.
Hooker → Triple → High Falls; 2–3 hours with photos.
Short Lake Dense stop if time; long I-40/I-26 drive home.
Know before you go
- Forest parking permit required — buy online or at kiosks.
- Swimming rules vary by fall — obey posted signs.
- Not a casual stroll — wear trail shoes and bring water.
Links & resources
More day trips
25–35 min 📖 Jonesborough, TN
25–35 min 🌊 Erwin & the Nolichucky Gorge
30–45 min 🛥️ South Holston Lake
30–45 min
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