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Catawba Falls

Old Fort, North Carolina

4.8/5
based on 14 reviews

Details

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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Features

Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Scenic
Waterfall

Catawba Falls Reviews

A pretty easy hike with a few river crossings. Would have been wise to wear my sandals though!

Easily one of my favorite hikes near Asheville. Not too difficult and relatively short hike with awesome trails along the river/creek. The falls at the end are beautiful and not too hard to get to no matter what time of year. If you get a chance, check it out when the temp is below freezing. The icicles on the falls are awesome.

Leave No Trace

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

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