Hike #2 :: Catawba Falls Hike: Fall Foliage & Waterfalls

Meetup Schedule:

• 10:00 AM: Carpool leaves from Uptown, Charlotte.
• 12:00 PM: Meet at Catawba Falls parking lot.
• 12:30 PM: Hike starts.
• Once the hike is completed, we can all head to any nearby local restaurant.

Get ready for a spectacular show from nature!

Join us for a scenic hike at Catawba Falls this Sunday! With the predicted rains this week, the waterfall should be flowing beautifully, creating a spectacular backdrop for the vibrant fall colors that are just starting to show. This is one of the most popular trails in Western North Carolina for good reason—it's incredibly accessible and the payoff is a series of stunning cascades. The rain will make the waterfalls gushing and the air fresh, promising a truly memorable hike with enhanced fall colors!

Catawba Falls Meeting Point:

• Address: 3074 Catawba River Rd, Old Fort, NC 28762.
• Directions: The parking area is located at the very end of Catawba River Road, about 3 miles off of I-40 at Exit 73.
• Important Parking Note: The parking is free but limited, and the lot fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Please do not park along the road as you may be towed.

Pace & Fun: We'll be keeping a moderately easy pace, so whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, you'll be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Hike Plan:

• The Full Loop: We'll be doing the full, improved loop trail. This includes a mix of the easy-to-moderate River Trail, a fun climb up 580 steps to the impressive Upper Falls, and a return via the scenic Ridge Trail. It's a great workout and offers a variety of views from river level to high above. The loop is approximately 3.5 miles long and should take us about 2 to 3 hours to complete at a moderate pace.

Why Catawba Falls?

• Easy Access, Big Reward: This trail is a perfect blend of accessibility and natural beauty. It’s an easy drive from the Charlotte area and the new trail improvements make the hike safer and more enjoyable than ever before.
• A Fun Challenge: The climb up the new staircase to the Upper Falls is an exciting part of the hike, providing incredible views and a great sense of accomplishment.
• Pet-Friendly: Yes, Catawba Falls is a pet-friendly trail! However, be aware that the new metal stairs to the Upper Falls might be uncomfortable for some dogs' paws. If you have a dog, you can still do the full loop by taking the Ridge Trail both ways to avoid the stairs. Please keep all pets on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

Carpool & Communication:

• Carpool from Uptown Charlotte: We are organizing a carpool for those interested. We will be meeting in Uptown Charlotte and leaving promptly at 10:00 AM.
• Communication: To coordinate carpooling and other details, please message me directly. I will add you to our FMFF Hiking WhatsApp chat.

What to Bring:

• Water & Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized!
• Layers & Rain Gear: It's a good idea to bring a waterproof jacket and maybe even rain pants. The trail can be muddy, so waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended.
• A Sense of Adventure!

Check out this video to get a better idea of what to expect on the hike: Catawba Falls Hiking and Waterfall Adventure