Although there is a lot to love about visiting North Carolina, its waterfalls stand out as the state’s most enchanting jewels. The region hosts some of the most beautiful cascading water sights to behold. From the lesser-known gems hidden in the lush forests of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the bold hiking trails and breathtaking roadside views, these natural wonders offer soothing sounds and vibrant greenery for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Among these, the Catawba Falls easily stands out as one of the best destinations with breathtaking views in the U.S. to add to your bucket list. Nestled in the heart of Pisgah National Forest, the 100-foot waterfall in Old Fort, McDowell County, provides stunning views and the ideal location for photography. The waterfall was reopened in May 2024 after a two-year closure for renovations to enhance accessibility and safety, but the site suffered a setback a few months later when Hurricane Helene damaged it. It was closed shortly thereafter and then reopened in January 2025. It remains open to the public except for the closed upper viewing platform and Wildflower Trail.
What to expect at Catawba Falls
Located east of Asheville, Catawba Falls is a breathtaking sight. The hike to the area follows the majestic Catawba River, with several smaller free-falls flowing around rocks along the trail. The pleasant sounds of the dropping water from the watercourse will also accentuate your enjoyment of the adventure. The River trail, one of the main trails to the waterfall, is about 3.5 miles long, and it is a round trip that takes visitors directly to the waterfall’s base, ending with a boardwalk and stairs. The trail has several stream crossings in between and passes by a historic dam ruin, a remnant of a hydropower dam that used to power Old Fort. There are steps leading to the Catawba Falls base where you can wade in the crisp waters, enjoy the views, or take photos. The lower Catawba Falls majestically drops about 100 feet and splits into several cascades in various directions, making it one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. It is also a moderately difficult hike with minimal elevation gain, making it a great option for everyone.
The Upper Catawba Falls, on the other hand, is a splendid free-fall, around 50 feet high, which ends in a clear pool. Although currently closed (as of May 2025) following Hurricane Helene, the main features of the upper section are the observation tower and staircase. The 60-foot tower plus the 500-some-odd stairs climb to the steep terrain of the upper falls.
Food and other attractions near Catawba Falls
