Just 25 miles east of downtown Asheville, Catawba River tumbles down, cascading into a series of waterfalls that, together, create a 100-foot scenic beauty in the Pisgah National Forest. Reaching this waterfall requires a three-mile round trip hike on an out-and-back trail that meanders through a shady forest. Here is a quick guide to reaching Catawba Falls.
Your hike starts at a signed trailhead situated close to the parking lot. You will follow the nearly flat trail that once was a wagon route from Old Fort to Asheville. Look out for yellow trail blazes, which will lead you to the Catawba River in just under 0.2 miles.
Eric Swanson/Alltrails
To avoid rock hopping, take the footbridge over the river. The trail continues upstream, offering a gradual elevation and steady climb. Though the terrain is wide and well-maintained, it is unpaved, peppered with rocks and roots.
Kayleen Soffer/Alltrails
The trail turns southwest into a shady forest of pine and leafy fern. It passes the ruins of several stone foundations constructed in the 1900s, the most notable being a dam wall. While it makes for great photos or a resting spot, it is treacherous, so do not attempt to stand or sit on it.
Kayleen Soffer/Alltrails
The Catawba Falls Trail becomes rocky after the first mile. As it scrambles over boulders and crosses Chestnut Branch, the sound of the waterfall becomes clear. From this distance, the sound is a soothing gurgle, only becoming a loud rush as you near the majestic beauty.
Martha Gautreaux/Alltrails
An additional 0.3-mile hike via a switchback brings the lower portions of the waterfall into view. Catawba Falls cascades over a massive, moss and plant-bathed outcrop, spilling into multiple tiers as it empties into the swimming hole at its hem.
Lauren Good/Alltrails
Find the relatively flat area in front of the cliff where you can observe the waterfall. It is where you can relax from your hike or hop into the water to enjoy its coolness.
Marty Payton/Alltrails
As much as it is tempting, do not attempt to reach the upper cascades or stand, climb, sit on, or jump from the boulders. Authorities deem it dangerous due to the slippery rocks and intense, rushing waters.
Eric Swanson/Alltrails
Kayleen Soffer/Alltrails
Martha Gautreaux/Alltrails
Lauren Good/Alltrails
Marty Payton/Alltrails
To learn more about the hike, visit its page on AllTrails.
Have you ever hiked to Catawba Falls? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments section below! Tell us how it went, then check out our previous article for another waterfall hike that everyone in North Carolina should take.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Catawba Falls, 3074 Catawba River Rd, Old Fort, NC 28762, USA
