Catawba Falls

Old Fort, North Carolina

4.8/5

based on 14 reviews

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Distance

2.19 miles

Elevation Gain

394 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Justin Costner

Temporarily Closed. Take a ~3-mile hike to Catawba Falls, a 100 foot waterfall. Possible camping is available at Catawba Falls Campground.

Please note, Catawba Falls is temporarily closed. You can learn more about updates at www.fs.usda.gov.

This quick and relatively easy hike is located close to Asheville, NC. If you're looking to have the trail to yourself, it can be a little tough. It's best to get there as early as possible or on a weekday if you can swing it.

As you head out on the trail, the elevation gain is very gradual, but does increase as you get further in. Once you get to the lower falls, check to see if the trail to the upper falls is open. It's a little trickier of a hike to get to the upper falls, which is steeper and rockier, so use your best judgement.

If you want to make this adventure a little longer, there are private campsites available at Catawba Falls Campground.

If you went for a quick day hike, swing by Pisgah Brewing Co for a cold one. On occasion, they also have food trucks parked outside.

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Catawba Falls Reviews

David Grassick

Catawba Falls

12/07/16

My girlfriend and I took her kids and 2 dogs on this hike and it was extremely enjoyable. The waterfalls and the views were breathtaking.

5.0

Lyndsey Isley

Catawba Falls

09/18/16

Just went yesterday to Crabtree Falls. It's a great fall pretty close to Asheville. We went early in the morning to avoid the crowd and it was stunning. The 1/2 mile climb to Upper Falls definitely kicks your butt! Always be cautious of your footing and use the surrounding rocks and tree branches for anchorage. They do have ropes to help you up some of the steeper parts. Once you come to the end of the ropes- veer left! Don't try to keep climbing up. Once left, you'll see the yellow and blue caution tape. The pool at Upper Falls is deep enough for swimming and wading in the water. So bring a swimsuit if you go in the summer! Trust me- after the climb you will definitely want to get in. Have a great hike! :)

5.0

Joseph Robinson

Catawba Falls

07/17/16

The waterfall is worth the bear crawl up the mountain and some of the areas.

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Catawba Falls

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Catawba Falls Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Hike Lookout Mountain, Montreat

Green Knob Lookout Tower

Mount Mitchell via the Old Mitchell Trail

Eagle Rock

Craggy Pinnacle Trail

Deep Gap Trail at Mt. Mitchell State Park

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