Import a GPX file

Catawba Falls River Trail in Pisgah National Forest

The Catawba Falls Trail offers a scenic journey through Pisgah National Forest, guiding hikers along a gentle riverside path rich with historic stonework, lush vegetation, and streams that punctuate the quiet, wooded landscape. About halfway up, hikers encounter a historic dam that forms a small waterfall, while the lower and upper Catawba Falls provide the main attractions, with tiered cascades and a pool at the base of the lower falls. Stairways and a bridge enhance accessibility and safety on this popular trail, making it an ideal adventure for both novice and seasoned hikers seeking a tranquil yet visually rewarding hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains. #Hiking #Waterfall #River #Forest #Nature

  • Distance: 2.5 mi
  • Elevation gain: 673 ft
  • Maximum elevation: 2,280 ft
  • Elevation loss: 676 ft
  • Minimum elevation: 1,604 ft
  • Moving time: 56 m 19 s
  • Moving speed: 2.7 mph
  • Maximum speed: 4.5 mph
  • Total time: 1 h 2 m
  • Global speed: 2.4 mph

Interactive trail map

Trail profile

  • Distance: 2.5 mi
  • Elevation gain: 673 ft
  • Maximum elevation: 2,280 ft
  • Elevation loss: 676 ft
  • Minimum elevation: 1,604 ft
  • Moving time: 56 m 19 s
  • Moving speed: 2.7 mph
  • Maximum speed: 4.5 mph
  • Total time: 1 h 2 m
  • Global speed: 2.4 mph

About this trail

Other hiking, mountain biking, running and outdoor activity trails

Click on a trail to view its statistics, map and profile.

Catawba Falls Trail

United States > North Carolina > McDowell County

Distance: 2.4 mi • Elevation gain: 587 ft • Maximum elevation: 2,096 ft

Catawba Falls

United States > North Carolina > McDowell County

Pisgah National Forest. #Hiking #Waterfall #River #Mountain #Forest #Nature #Pisgah

Distance: 2.3 mi • Elevation gain: 476 ft • Maximum elevation: 2,067 ft

Gear up for your next adventure:

🪶Trail Camera - Capture wildlife on your hikes
Solar GPS Watches - Advanced multisport watches with built-in topographic maps
🎒Day Hiking Backpack - Lightweight backpack perfect for day trips and outdoor adventures
🔋Solar Power Banks - Keep your GPS and phone charged in remote wilderness areas
🔭Stargazing Telescopes - Perfect for camping in low-light pollution areas shown on maps

As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.