(3.5 miles roundtrip, intermediate) This waterfall in the Pisgah National Forest is just three miles from I-40 in Old Fort. Hike the 1.1 mile River Trail to the Lower Catawba Falls, a 250-foot cascade. For a shorter, more accessible hike, you can hike back out to the trailhead the way you entered. For a longer, more strenuous hike, continue up 580 stairs to a 60-foot observation tower to view the stunning Upper Catawba Falls (80 feet). At the top of the observation tower, continue across the observation pathway to the Ridge Trail for an additional 2.1 miles, which will bring you back to the parking lot. *Note: As of May 31, 2024, certain areas of the trail are still under construction. Please follow any signage along the trail and avoid any areas that may still be closed.