Looking for a hike that works just as well for a relaxed date day as it does for a family adventure? Catawba Falls checks all the boxes. With a long, scenic waterfall, plenty of spots to pause and take in the view, and the option to customize your route, it’s an easy-to-enjoy outing with a moderate level hike and gorgeous views. Pair it with a stop in nearby Black Mountain, and you’ve got a full day of fresh air, good food, and memory-making.
I love hiking at Catawba Falls. The waterfall is so long that you get to walk beside it (up or down stairs depending on the direction you start the loop) for a very long time. There’s an observation tower, and lots of spots to stop and enjoy the view. It’s quickly become a favorite for my husband and I when we get a day away.
Where is Catawba Falls?
Catawba Falls is located in Old Fort, NC and about 20 minutes from the town of Black Mountain.
Driving times:
Catawba Falls is 1 hour and 45 minutes from Charlotte, NC.
Catawba Falls is also about an 1 hour and 40 minutes north of Greenville, SC.
Watch! Our Hike to the Falls
Take a quick peek at the hike to Catawba Falls in our YouTube short.
Choosing Your Route
There are a couple of ways to tackle this hike, and your starting point makes a big difference in your experience:
- Want to walk down the stairs?
Start at the trailhead to the left of the restrooms.- This does mean a longer uphill walk (you got to go up somehow, right? It is a waterfall).
- You’ll arrive at the top of the falls first, so your first views are from above.
- Then you can enjoy walking down all the stairs alongside the waterfall.
- Prefer to climb the stairs instead?
Start at the trailhead to the right of the restrooms.- I prefer this way because your hike begins wandering along the river.
- You approach the falls from the bottom, then climb the stairs up alongside it.
- The climb up the stairs is long, but you get great views because you’re climbing up beside the cascading water. So, it’s totally ok to take your time.
What to Expect Along the Falls
One of the best parts of Catawba Falls is how long you get to enjoy it. This is not. long hike to a quick overlook—you hike along the water and with the waterfall for a good stretch. There are plenty of places to pause, enjoy the sounds of the water, and snap photos.
You’ll also walk across a bridge beside some old mill ruins that are fun to look at.
Important Safety Notes
The area around the top of the waterfall does get a bit congested when there are many people on the trail. It truly is a beautiful spot, which means everyone wants to stop here. But there are some important things to note in this area.
- Trails have been rerouted after Helene damage
- There are still closed-off stair sections that you’ll see at the top. (They are clearly closed)
- Obey all signage and don’t stray onto closed trails
- The tops of waterfalls can be dangerous places, even without hurricane damage.
Turn It Into a Date Day
After a hike at Catawba Falls, my husband and I love to head into the town of Black Mountain, NC, which is less than 20 minutes away from the parking area of the falls. We eat a late lunch and do some window shopping at the shops near the Town Square.
- Don’t miss the North Carolina Glass Center — it’s so fun to look around, and they offer classes (definitely on our to-do list!)
- Stop by Nutmeg Black Mountain bakery — the bread is amazing and absolutely worth grabbing to-go
- On our last visit to Black Mountain we had a delicious lunch at The Pure and Proper
- We sat outside in the shade, and it was perfect
- Great cocktails if you’re making it a date day
Good to Know for Families
- Expect lots of stairs — this hike will be tough for little legs. You will probably be carrying them.
- There are restrooms at the trailhead, but they are pit toilets. Sometimes they are a little stinky. Bring some hand sanitizer.
- Plenty of spots to take breaks and regroup along the trail.
- Keep kids close, especially near the upper falls
- There is a very large parking lot, but it will fill up fast, especially on gorgeous weekend days. Start your hike early to ensure a parking spot.
- Parking/Trailhead address: 3074 Catawba River Rd, Old Fort, NC 28762
Catawba Falls is one of those places that works just as well for a peaceful date as it does for a family adventure. Add in a stop in Black Mountain, and you’ve got a full day that feels fun, relaxed, and easy to enjoy.
Have you been to Catawaba Falls or explored Black Mountain after? Tell us your favorite stops—we’d love to hear!
Want to explore more waterfalls? (So do we!) Here’s our list of Waterfalls Worth Checking out Near Charlotte, NC