Catawba Falls Trail

Catawba Falls Trail

Difficulty

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Activities

Hiking Walking/Running Cycling Equestrian Paddling Disc Golf

Length 3.5 (Full Loop); 1.1 (to lower falls) miles

Elevation Gain 801-1000 ft/s

Estimated Time 2.25-3.0 hr/s

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Trail Info:

Catawba Falls trail is a beautiful trail providing access to the stunning cascades of Catawba Falls. This gem of a recreational area is accessible year-round and is both family and dog friendly. It includes 2 trails that total 3.5 miles of trail and 846ft of elevation gain. The Ridge Trail is ~2.1 miles and leads up the southern ridge to the upper falls. From here, hikers can cross the shallow, narrow river (no bridge at this time) to reach the River Trail. This scenic trail follows along the headwaters of the Catawba River for 1.5 miles and includes 3 overlooks, 580 wood and metal grate stairs, and countless views of the falls.

Thank you to Foothills Conservancy, who was instrumental in acquiring this property and transferring it to the National Forest Service for public access!

See the table below for more information in comparison to what you might find on other trails in Rutherford County and Western NC:

WHERE: 3074 Catawba River Rd, Old Fort, NC 28762

DIRECTIONS: At the end of Catawba River Road, Off Exit 73 on I-40 at Old Fort.

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TIPS & TRICKS

Stay on Trail

It protects the environment and prevents you from getting lost.