US forest service's upper catawba falls access trail extension

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) awarded the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) $125,000 through the Recreational Trails Program (CFDA 20.219) on September 5, 2025, for the construction and improvement of the Catawba Falls Loop Trail near Old Fort, North Carolina. The project involves the development of 565 linear feet of Phase 1D native surface trail improvements and the construction of 45 linear feet of boardwalks and stairs connecting a Phase 2 observation platform to adjacent native surface trails. The initiative is scheduled for completion by September 27, 2030.

This award supports infrastructure development on a popular National Forest attraction through eligible Recreational Trails Program uses, including trail construction and development of trail-related facilities. The project enhances recreational access and trail connectivity while improving the visitor experience at this established national forest destination in North Carolina.

Project description

The catawba falls loop trail is a new extension to catawba falls trail, which is an extremely popular national forest attraction near old fort, NC. Construction of 565 linear FT of phase 1D native surface trail improvement, and 45 linear FT of boardwalks and stairs connecting the phase 2 observation platform to adjacent native surface trails.