Catawba Falls Old Fort, North Carolina
Since the 1870s when Rufus Morgan photographed the Catawba Falls people have hiked along the Catawba River to view these spectacular waterfalls. After years of being off limits the falls are now open to the public. This website will keep you informed of planned hikes and current photographs. The first falls is a moderate hike, the upper falls is very difficult and dangerous and should not be undertaken lightly. You will pass by stone buildings and a dam used for power generation in the early 1900s these sites are historic and dangerous DO NOT cross the dam it is weak and a fall from it can cause serious injury. Cell phone coverage is good but there is no quick response emergency teams to help you so be safe. For more pictures on North Carolina Waterfalls visit the incredible website http://www.ncwaterfalls.com/
The new parking lot is now open, restroom facilities are available. If you need water or supplies plan a stop at Catawba Falls Campground for last minute items.Have a great hike. No overnight camping, ATV, Horse or Bike access.
WARNING!!! Wet rocks are very slippery and people fall to their deaths from waterfalls every year! If you visit them, please be careful and use common sense! Do not climb rocks around the waterfalls and do not ever cross a stream or swim at the top of a waterfall. There are also many species of rare plants near some of these waterfalls, living in and near the spray areas of the falls. Please be very careful not to trample vegetation while exploring any falls!
