On a perfect cool summer morning, I met a friend and fellow adventure lover for her first visit to Catawba Falls. This was apparently the year for first time treks to this awe-inspiring 100 foot waterfall near Old Fort in Western North Carolina as we hit the trail earlier this year for our inaugural hike. Even though it is only a few posts back on the blog, I cannot resist sharing this beautiful place again, covered in summer greens, lush fern and moss, and so much life thriving in the woods and the water. The last visit was in winter so it was a totally different experience. Click here for the winter Catawba Falls visit blog post. This hike is about 1.3 miles to the falls, meandering along the Catawba River with so many gorgeous sights along the way. There are several historic structures remaining from an old hydroelectric plant, and stepping into the thick walled structures gives such an interesting perspective worth exploring.

If you have ever been with me in the woods or literally anywhere a fern is on display, you probably know I’m pretty obsessed with all the types of fern. This area was covered with so many different types – I was over the moon to see them all in the same area. I really love the collage below that shows a variety of fern we saw to give you a taste of the fern magic on this trail. 

We saw a lovely black snake *and* curious water snake, quite a few brachoria dentata (Appalachian mimic millipede), so many beautiful snail, crawfish, trout, and the cutest little furry white caterpillar that I know better than to try to touch. This little guy is possibly a White-marked Tussock Moth caterpillar that can sting badly – do not ever touch these! – most of the soft/furry looking ones are covered in toxins and spines that can cause major reactions. My friend, Star, is great at spotting wildlife and helping me slow down to see all the life around me. I typically hit the trail and want to cover as much ground as possible so I can see it all, photograph it all, and share as much as I can, but am finding a new joy in lingering a little bit longer and am often rewarded for stopping to take it all in. The film camera getting back into rotation has helped with this too. CANNOT wait to get the film from this trip processed soon – always a mystery with what I end up getting and it is SO much fun!!

If you get the opportunity to visit this trail, keep in mind that snakes love living in areas just like this with rocky crevices to hide in and water to attract prey. Dogs are allowed on this trail, but keep an eye out for snakes and be sure to pack out anything you bring in.

Truly hope you enjoy getting to see this magical place – even if just through the photos. Stop and take it all in if you get the chance to visit Catawba Falls.

Star is the talent behind Mountain Thread Art – amazing embroidery art. Check her out!

Photography by Camilla Calnan Photography

Location: Catawba Falls

I am so glad we finally made the trek to Midnight Hole and Mouse Creek falls on a perfect late spring morning. Both sets of cascades have been on the must visit list for quite awhile and we luckily chose the perfect morning to hit the Big Creek Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to get to these lovely falls. Somehow, we timed it perfectly to be the only one at the falls when we arrived which was a bit of surprise after hearing how busy these spots can be.

The 1.4 mile moderate trail to get to the gorgeous Mouse Creek falls is so beautiful. On this end of May, late spring venture there were some mountain laurel still in bloom with rhododendron close to bloom, tons of fern of all types, immense rock formations with a wide variety of types of stone and minerals mixed together, worn down over time to create unique outcrops and rocks everywhere. This trail and these waterfalls are quite popular places to visit, so it was not surprising we passed a multitude of people heading up when we were heading out. It was wonderful to see that there are so many people enjoying the area and most seem to be respecting nature while visiting as it was nice not seeing much trash or litter. Unfortunately, we lost count of how many dogs we passed going up with their people, either oblivious of or choosing to ignore the signs as you enter the trail indicating that dogs are not allowed on this trail. There are lots of no dogs allowed trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National park, so if planning adventures with the pups, please check if they are welcome on the trail you choose. The Big Creek Trail is a well loved horse trail, so please respect the no dogs rule for everyone's sake as some spots could be treacherous if a horse/dog interaction goes wrong. Rocky areas like this are usually a favorite place for snakes, so watch your step, and know that it is another reason to leave the furry friends at home for everyone's safety.

With social media and hiking apps sharing all the used to be hidden spots, I have to admit I've been more and more hesitant to share some of these mountain gems. Hoping that anyone reading this embraces the leave no trace principles to pack out everything you pack in (including dog poop in areas you are allowed to bring your dog) - stay on the trails to preserve sensitive flora and fauna - and to NOT move rocks in streams and waterways being of utmost importance. There are endangered creatures and plants of all types that need people to respect their homes. If you are planning to visit and haven't heard about leave no trace, please read up on it and know that without everyone working together these special places will be ruined. Let's all work together to preserve these special places for generations to come!  

Location Big Creek Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Photography by Camilla Calnan Photography

On a crisp winter day we ventured to Catawba Falls located in the Pisgah National Forest near Old Fort, NC. The 100 foot waterfall has been on the list to visit for much too long - so thankful we finally made the trek!

The trail winds along the Catawba River, unveiling serene scenes along the way. There are so many beautiful spots tucked away off the trail leading to the main falls, we just had to stop and capture it all along the way. The moss covered remnants of an old hydroelectric plant from the early 1900s remain just off the trail, inviting you to step back in history entering the roofless structure. The old pump house juxtaposed with the modern footbridge give an interesting contrast to the natural beauty along the river. This 1.3 mile hike to the main falls made for the perfect adventure on a winter day for just shy of 3 miles back to the car. This magical place is located in the Pisgah National Forest near Old Fort, North Carolina. We will be back to visit again as I would love to see it in all the other seasons. :)

Even after 20 years in this part of the world, it never ceases to amaze me how many more wonderful places we need to visit that are right in our 'backyard' in Western North Carolina. Love the mountains and hope to get to keep discovering more of the Appalachian magic nearby! We will keep photographing and posting - hope that you are inspired to get out there or to keep checking out our blog and visit these places vicariously! Thank you for checking out our post!

Photography by Camilla Calnan Photography

Location: Catawba Falls