Upper Falls Trail is 1.9 miles in length and considered farther challenging. It is a multi-use trail that may be used to connect the many central and southern trails.

Directions: From Morganton, NC, South Mountains State Park is located in southwestern Burke County, 18 miles south of Morganton. From I-40 take NC 18 to SR 1913. From SR 1913 turn left onto Old NC 18. Travel down Old NC 18 to SR 1901. The park is off of SR 1901 on SR 1904. After passing the park entrance, travel until the road dead ends in a parking lot. You may begin on High Shoals Falls Loop Trail which is located in the picnic grove. Take High Shoals either way until it intersects with Upper Falls Trail.

Upper Falls trails is a connector trail that is 1.9 miles in length and cuts through a portion of the park's central area.