Catawba Falls State Park
A description and images from our 2018 Trip through the Blue Ridge Mountains.
by Celeste Lipford and Terry Lipford - last updated on 1/18/2025
Catawba Falls State Park in North Carolina (only 13 miles from our VRBO rental in Chesire Village) was a must-visit destination for us, all nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls, scenic beauty, and rich biodiversity.
Our trip research showed us that we could expect the following from a visit there;
- Breathtaking Waterfalls: The park’s highlight is the magnificent Catawba Falls, which cascades over 100 feet. There are both lower and upper falls, with the upper falls providing a more secluded and rewarding view after a moderate hike. The sight and sound of the waterfalls are serene and refreshing.
- Hiking Trails: The park features well-maintained hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. The 2.7-mile round-trip trail to the falls follows the Catawba River, offering a peaceful walk through lush forests with stunning views along the way. It’s a relatively easy hike, making it perfect for families.
- Rich Natural Beauty: The park is surrounded by dense woodlands, native plants, and wildlife, offering a tranquil environment to enjoy North Carolina’s natural beauty. The river and nearby streams add to the scenic landscape.
- Historic Ruins: Along the trail, visitors can see the remnants of an old dam and powerhouse, providing a glimpse into the area’s industrial history.
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Click the above video poster image to discover the breathtaking beauty of Catawba River Falls, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of North Carolina. Enjoy stunning waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and refreshing swimming opportunities. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape.
Catawba Falls State Park, NC Map
The park is home to a stunning series of waterfalls, including the centerpiece, Catawba Falls, which cascades 100 feet into a lush gorge. Visitors can hike to the base of the falls, take a refreshing dip in the cool waters, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
We picked this as our next stop, because it is obviously pretty and it is on the way to Asheville, NC - our next "stay over" location.
Click here to
go to the Catawba Falls Campground website where there is a good list of their accommodations & facilities and how to make
a reservation.
Exploring Catawba Falls Park
Exploring Catawba Falls Park
Exploring Catawba Falls Park
Exploring Catawba Falls Park
Exploring Catawba Falls Park
Exploring Catawba Falls Park
Exploring Catawba Falls Park
Exploring Catawba Falls ParkCatawba Falls State Park is a true hidden treasure in North Carolina, situated in the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park’s crown jewel is the stunning Catawba Falls, a 100-foot cascade that plunges gracefully into a verdant gorge, creating a picturesque and serene setting. Visitors are drawn to the natural beauty of this spot, where they can hike to the base of the falls, cool off with a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, or simply unwind while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
The park offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Whether you're interested in camping, fishing, or picnicking, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. A network of trails weaves through the park, catering to all skill levels, from leisurely walks to more challenging hikes. Adventurers can also enjoy rock climbing, while birdwatchers will find the area teeming with native and migratory species.
Conveniently located just east of Asheville, the park is easy to access. From Asheville, take I-40 East to Old Fort Exit 73, then head north on NC-221 for about three miles. The entrance is clearly marked on the right.
The hike to the base of Catawba Falls is a manageable 1.5-mile round trip, with a well-maintained trail featuring a gentle incline. Sturdy footwear is recommended, as well as plenty of water to stay hydrated. Upon arrival, you’ll find the pool at the base of the falls is an inviting spot for swimming—a perfect way to beat the heat on warm days. Pack a swimsuit and towel, and prepare for a memorable adventure in one of North Carolina's most scenic locales!
Tips & Suggestions for a Catawba Falls Park Visit
- Wear or bring Sturdy shoes - The trails vary from flat & easy to rocky, undulating and sometimes steep.
- Water - There is no fresh water at the Falls, and as there are 11 dams up river, as well as industrial pollution, the water is not considered to be safe to consume.
- Swimsuit and towel (if you plan to go wading, it is not really deep enough to swim)
- Picnic lunch or snacks - There are no facilities at the Falls.
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Camera
- The park is open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.
- The park is closed from May 2, 2022 through spring 2023 for trail improvements.
- There is a $5 parking fee.
- Pets are allowed on leash.
Useful Links for Catawba State Park
- Just Traveling Thru Travel Planning Tips
- Catawba Falls Hiking Trails on the "Asheville Trails" website
- Catawba Falls State Park on the "North Carolina State Parks" site
- Amazon Search Results list for "Catawba State Park"
- Youtube Search Results list for "Catawba State Park"
- Google Search Results list for "places to eat near Catawba Falls State Park"
- Visit our Youtube Channel
- Our Image Gallery for Catawba Falls State Park
- Wikipedia Article for Catawba Falls State Park
- Google Image Gallery for Catawba Falls State Park
- Google Reviews for the Catawba State Park
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