Catawba Falls

Located near the town of Old Fort, the Catawba Falls Trail is easy to overlook. Surrounded by Pisgah National Forest, both the town and the trailhead are easy to pass by while on your way to more popular destinations near Black Mountain or Asheville.

Managed by the US Forest Service, there are two sections of the trail that form a continuous loop. A strenuous section along Allison Ridge to the upper falls. And, an easier section along the river that gradually follows the lower falls to an impressive wooden stair case and viewing tower.

I’ve been continuing to experiment photographing waterfalls this Spring. I find it most interesting to use a faster shutter speed and capture the water frozen in time - like the fallen tree that was hanging upside down from its roots.

I’m not sure how the tree fell that way, but capturing the beauty and mystery of Mother Nature is something that remains close to my heart… which is always a good thing to remember a few weeks before Mother’s Day.