McDowell County has no shortage of falling water. Mountain streams tumble through Pisgah National Forest, and at Catawba Falls, the headwaters of the Catawba River begin their journey east. This One-Tank Adventure takes you from the foothills of Old Fort toward the Blue Ridge Parkway, connecting three memorable and distinctly different waterfalls with scenic mountain roads, small-town stops and plenty to discover along the way.
One-Tank Adventure at a Glance
- Round-Trip Distance: Approximately 75-85 miles
- Drive Time: About 3 hours (not including stops)
- Plan For: A full day (7-9 hours) to enjoy the waterfalls, hikes, meals and scenic stops.
- Primary Routes: U.S. 70, U.S. 221, N.C. 226 and the Blue Ridge Parkway
- Road Conditions: Expect curvy mountain roads and elevation changes. Drive cautiously, watch for cyclists and allow extra time for scenic overlooks.
Adventure Stops
Start Your Day in Old Fort and Catawba Falls
Fuel up with coffee from Seeker Coffee or breakfast at The Davis Country Store & Café before heading to Catawba Falls, one of North Carolina's most celebrated waterfalls. Hike to the lower falls or, while your legs are fresh, continue toward Upper Catawba Falls via the impressive new staircase that climbs alongside the falls. The route rewards the effort with an entirely different perspective on this landmark waterfall and the forest surrounding it. Give yourself time here. This is not the stop to rush.
After your hike, return to downtown Old Fort to browse local shops, visit the Mountain Gateway Museum, or simply enjoy the town's welcoming Main Street before setting out on one of western North Carolina's most scenic mountain drives.
Follow the Mountain Roads
Leave Old Fort on U.S. 70 East toward Marion. After approximately 13 miles, turn left onto U.S. 221 North and begin climbing into the Blue Ridge Mountains.
As U.S. 221 begins its climb into the Blue Ridge Mountains, you'll cross the Eastern Continental Divide near Gillespie Gap. Rain falling on one side of the divide eventually makes its way toward the Atlantic; on the other, it begins a journey toward the Gulf of Mexico. You're gaining elevation now, and the landscape changes with it as foothills give way to winding streams, hardwood forests and long mountain views.
After about 15 miles, turn left onto Tom's Creek Road (S.R. 1568) and continue to the Tom's Creek Falls trailhead.
Next Stop: Tom's Creek Falls
After your workout at Catawba Falls, Tom's Creek Falls feels like a walk in the park. A short walk leads to a 60-foot cascade tucked beneath a hardwood forest canopy. Its accessibility and peaceful setting have made it a longtime favorite among locals.
From here, return to U.S. 221 North and continue climbing toward Little Switzerland.
Lunch in Little Switzerland
By lunchtime, you’ve climbed from the foothills into Little Switzerland, the tiny mountaintop community whose Swiss-inspired architecture and sweeping Blue Ridge views make it feel like you’ve reached a storybook village. This is your cue to slow down.
Choose the Switzerland Cafe for smoked trout, barbecue or mountain favorites, or stop by Little Switzerland Books & Beans for coffee, pastries and one of western North Carolina's most beloved independent bookstores.
Before You Leave
If time allows, add a couple of nearby stops before continuing your adventure.
- Museum of North Carolina Minerals offers a fascinating look at the geology, gems and mining history that helped shape these mountains.
- Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks are never far away. Pull over whenever one catches your eye — you'll be rewarded with sweeping views that change with every season.
Waterfall Finale: Duggers Creek Falls
Leaving Little Switzerland, continue south on the Blue Ridge Parkway toward Linville Falls. Over the next dozen miles, the road traces the crest of the Blue Ridge, offering frequent opportunities to pull off and soak in panoramic mountain views. Near Milepost 316.4, look for signs directing you to the Duggers Creek parking area.
Your third waterfall isn’t the biggest of the day and that’s part of its charm. A short walk leads to Duggers Creek Falls, tucked into a narrow, mossy gorge and viewed from a picturesque footbridge. After the scale of Catawba Falls and the graceful cascade of Tom's Creek, Duggers Creek feels intimate, almost hidden. It's a fitting final waterfall before turning toward home.
The Drive Home
From Linville Falls, turn toward Old Fort and watch the landscape unwind in reverse, from the high ridges of the Blue Ridge back toward the foothills where your day began.
Back in town, celebrate your waterfall adventure with a pint at Hillman Beer Old Fort or Appalachian-inspired brews at Whaley Farm Brewery. Prefer wine? Euda Wine offers tastings in a relaxed setting. Or head to the restored historic sock factory on Catawba Avenue, now home to two experiences under one roof: Modern Alchemist Distillery upstairs and Appalachian Mountain Brewery Outpost & Kitchen downstairs, where you'll find craft beer, cocktails featuring spirits distilled on-site, and pub fare.
Make It an Overnight
Old Fort makes an ideal base camp for this adventure, giving you time to enjoy the waterfalls at a relaxed pace while exploring one of western North Carolina's most welcoming mountain towns.
Little Mountain A-Frame
A beautifully designed woodland retreat featuring mountain views, a cedar hot tub and cozy Scandinavian-inspired interiors just minutes from downtown.
Indigo Nature Retreat
Cabins and gathering spaces surrounded by the Pisgah National Forest, perfect for travelers looking to stay close to trails and waterfalls.
Wunderland Resort
Eco-friendly cabins, glamping accommodations and campsites designed for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a nature-focused getaway. Follow your dip in the spring-fed natural pond with beer at the firepit.
Inn on Mill Creek
A peaceful bed-and-breakfast tucked along Mill Creek between Old Fort and Black Mountain.
Travelers will also find a variety of accommodations in Marion, neighboring communities and along the Interstate 40 corridor, making it easy to extend your stay while exploring McDowell County.
