Catheys Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainPhoto Credits (1)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Catheys Creek Falls
Catheys Creek Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina. It features a cascading drop over moss-covered rocks, surrounded by lush forest scenery. The waterfall is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
The Setting
Catheys Creek Falls sits at 2,625 feet within Pisgah National Forest, fed by the French Broad River, in the hills of North Carolina.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Looking Glass Falls (60 ft) lies 5.2 miles to the northeast. Also nearby: Slick Rock Falls (30 ft, 4.6 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Art Loeb Nrt (#TR146), a 0.2-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
ART LOEB NRT #TR146
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
17.26 miTrail Description
The trail to Catheys Creek Falls is a short and easy walk from the road. It is unmarked but well-trodden, leading through a forested area to the base of the falls. The trail may be muddy or slippery after rain, so caution is advised.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Catheys Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Catheys Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the water flow is typically stronger due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Pisgah National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Exercise caution on the trail, especially after rain, as it can be slippery. Stay on the trail to avoid damaging the environment or getting lost. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
84 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 91 years of record
2.00 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge FRENCH BROAD RIVER AT ROSMAN, NC (9 km away).
Today
Low
84 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
86 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
85 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
85 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
93 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
91 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
88 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to early May, peaking in March.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Brevard hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 265 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 2,630 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 128 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 177 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,630 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 265 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Catheys Creek Falls is located off Catheys Creek Road (Forest Service Road 471) in Pisgah National Forest, near Brevard, North Carolina. The falls are accessible via a short hike from the road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available along the side of Catheys Creek Road. Space may be limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
2,625 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.226500° N, -82.803461° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be muddy or slippery. Arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak seasons. Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the falls.
Where to Stay
Holiday Inn Express - Brevard by IHG
Comfort Inn & Suites Brevard North
Walk to Dtwn Brevard! Mtn Escape w/ Fire Pit
Airstream w Bathtub, River, & Hot Tub
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
KUYKENDALL GROUP CAMP
1.5 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Large groups enjoy this cozy mountain campground in the Pisgah National Forest of western North Carolina. Ample opportunities for recreation exist in the area, including hiking, picnicking, scenic driving, swimming, fishing, mountain biking and more.Recreation This is a great place for campers to simply relax in the woods and listen to the sound of the creek. Visitors can also explore the area's numerous hiking trails, check out crystal clear waterfalls or fish for trout in the creek and
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Cashiers, North Carolina
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Cashiers, North Carolina on SoakingSprings.
Explore North Carolina springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, and the town of Brevard, known for its white squirrels and charming downtown area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes and other forest creatures.
Cities near Catheys Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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