AboutSubmit a waterfall
✓ Sourced from the managing agency's own page

Catawba Falls

📍 Old Fort, NC🥾 3.5 mi round trip · moderate🎟 Fee/permit not published

A moderate 3.5-mile waterfall.

Getting there

moderate3.5 mi round trip

Our take

Free to visit. Trail: 3.5 miles round trip. Difficulty: Moderate.

Some trail segments may remain closed for post-Helene repairs; check current access.

Planning your visit

Best time to go

Appalachian waterfalls run fullest after winter and spring rain and snowmelt.

How long to budget

2-3 hours

Who it suits

Good for

  • a moderate day hike

Common questions

Is there a fee to visit Catawba Falls?

No fee or permit requirement was published on the managing agency's site when we last checked — confirm current conditions before you go, since these change.

How do I get to Catawba Falls?

Via a 3.5-mile round-trip trail rated moderate by the managing agency.

Catawba Falls in Blue Ridge Mountains

We track 14 waterfalls in Blue Ridge Mountains.

Other waterfalls near Old Fort

Quick facts

HeightNot published
Trail3.5 mi round trip
Difficultymoderate
Fee / permitNot published
Managing agencyU.S. Forest Service — Pisgah National Forest (Grandfather Ranger District)
DogsNot published
SwimmingNot published
ADA accessNot published
CountyMcDowell County
RegionBlue Ridge Mountains
Official pageView source ↗

Source

fs.usda.gov

USDA Forest Service Pisgah National Forest recreation site page, checked Aug 2026. Main loop open; upper viewing platform and Wildflower Trail remain closed post-Helene.

Checked August 2026.