Today's forecast called for rain, but I really wanted to get back out to chase more fall color before it was gone for the year. I really thought Catawba and Upper Catawba Falls would still have leaves on, so I got up early and headed down the hill to Old Fort. It was foggy the whole way, but I was seeing a lot of peak trees along I-40. The plan was to head up river all the way to Upper Catawba Falls first before the rain arrived, then Catawba Falls and below would be a bonus later on.

I parked, changed into my water shoes, and hit the trail. Everything was wet, either from earlier rain or the mist that was lingering in the air. The water shoes came in handy right away as there was no way to get across the first river crossing without wading. I was seeing more fallen leaves that the color I was hoping for, but I continued on. I passed by the lower waterfall at the dam and continued up to Catawba Falls. I was very surprised to find a tent set up right in front of the falls since one has to pass by 2 signs that say NO CAMPING. Most of the leaves were off here also and I almost turned back, but I continued on up. The upper waterfall isn't too far above the top of Catawba Falls, but the climb up is very steep and slippery when wet. I must say this isn't the smartest thing I've done lately, but I made it up without incident. Well, the leaves were even more gone here and this is about the best I could do.