Plunging waterfalls, rugged river gorges, sheer rock walls and one of the greatest concentrations of rare and unique species in the eastern United States are found within the Gorges State Park. An elevation that rises some 2,000 feet in only three to five miles combined with rainfall in excess of 80 inches per year creates a temperate rain forest and supports an extensive collection of waterfalls. North Carolina's newest state park, created in 1999 currently has no public facilities or public restrooms.