Catawba Falls Trail

The U.S. Forest Service recently has made the easy-to-moderate trail even more enjoyable by adding two new footbridges so that you no longer have to rock hop across the river to enjoy the falls. The hike is just three miles round trip. 

What To Expect

From the parking lot, take the nearly flat trail that follows what was once a wagon route from Old Fort to Asheville. There are several stone foundation ruins from the early 1900s along this trail, including the wall of a dam once constructed here in an attempt to create hydropower. Do not stand on the dam wall: it’s treacherous.

As you pass through the hardwood forest, the trail stays close to the water the whole way. The sound of the water varies from a light gurgling to a loud rush, but it’s always a nice accompaniment to the hike.

When you reach the base of the falls, there’s a relatively flat area from which to observe them. The lower portion of the falls consist of many small cascades.

As of May 31, 2024, there is a new way to view the Upper Falls. The new Catawba Falls Ridge Trail includes 580 hand-built stairs, a 60-foot observation tower, and a custom-designed railing inspired by the district’s mountain skyline.

Because this hike is so close to Asheville, it's quite popular and you’ll have to share the trail with others on summer weekends. Visit in the fall for lovely foliage.

Directions

From downtown Asheville, take I-240 to I- 40 East, Exit 73 (the second Old Fort exit). Before you get to the end of the exit ramp, turn right onto Catawba River Road. The road ends after three miles at the parking lot for the falls.

GPS Coordinates

35.603858, -82.245154

Photo by Hugo Gutierrez.