nantahala national forest backpacking

I continue up the trail until I'm taken with one of nature's most seductive sounds: water gently tumbling down from the mountains. With 531,270 acres in Macon, Graham, Cherokee, Jackson, Clay, and Swain counties, A six-inch-deep ford (6) across concrete at the base of a 250-foot rockfill dam signals the start of a 400-foot climb past a spillway-fueled waterfall. Nantahala National Forest Camping: Campendium has 41 reviews of 18 Campgrounds in Nantahala National Forest. October 1, 2018. A rugged land of sweet-smelling wildflowers, bald mountains, and stone Indians. Detailed descriptions of campgrounds in the Nantahala National Forest. Recommended Routes in Nantahala National Forest - 13 Hiking Project is built by hikers like you. The Nantahala National Forest encompasses more than a half-million acres of pristine woodlands, with elevations from a high of 5,800 feet to a low of 1,200 feet. The forest floor rarely sees sunlight in many areas, which is great news for those looking to find a shady place to set up camp. 35.33217, -83.59204 By Trail Contributor: Zach Robbins Latticed by crisscrossing creeks that sit 5,000 feet above sea level, Standing Indian Campground is an alluring, well-equipped campground. Hiking in Nantahala National Forest. “My favorite is the Pickens Nose Trail,” Kussow says. Old forests grace the hills and valleys, with some of the canyons reaching deep into the earth, providing ample hiking opportunities in the beautiful terrain. February 14, 2011 This four night trip with a group of new friends is the one that really got the boys and me excited about backpacking while they are still young. With over 1,700 miles of trails, a variety of opportunities await you, from short, easy walks to long distance backpacking adventures. 3. LONGER HIKES. The largest of North Carolina's four National Forests, the Nantahala encompasses 531,148 acres with elevations ranging from 5,800 feet at Lone Bald in Jackson County to 1,200 feet in Cherokee County along Hiwassee River. Challenge the family with a 1.5-mile roundtrip that climbs nearly 1,000 feet to a craggy summit and far-reaching views of Linville Gorge and Pisgah National Forest. The highlight of this stunning forest is the Cherohala Skyway that allows visitors to take in the scenic views from astounding heights along its byway. Nantahala National Forest has closed to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Western North Carolina. The one mile hike is short but moderate - stick with it and you'll be greeted with stunning 360-degree views of Nantahala National Forest. 47. Bonus: Hike the Appalachian Trail from NOC. Stories. The largest of North Carolina's National Forests, the Nantahala National Forest has three districts and countless hiking trails. The Nantahala Headwaters Loop, AKA the Standing Indian Loop, is a 25 mile trail in the Appalachian Mountains, more specifically the Nantahala National Forest. Asheville, NC (828) 251-2001, GROCERIES FRENCH BROAD FOOD CO-OP 90 Biltmore Ave. Asheville, NC (828) 255-7650, THIRSTY MONK 50 Commerce St. Asheville, NC (828) 254-5470 MAST GENERAL STORE 63 North Main St. Waynesville, NC (828) 452-2101 SOUL INFUSION TEA HOUSE 628 East Main St. Sylva, NC (828) 586-1717 CAFF-E REL 457 East Main St. Franklin, NC (828) 369-9446 Multiday gear list Backpack Three-season tent Down bag (15° to 40°F) and sleeping pad Compass, map, GPS unit Gas stove and fuel bottles Lighter and matches Cookset, bowl, insulated mug, eating utensils 32 oz. Beech Gap via Palmer Creek Trail and Balsam Mountain Trail. “My favorite is the Pickens Nose Trail,” Kussow says. The official tourism website for Nantahala NC lodging and activities. Nantahala National Forest Wayah Ranger District Franklin, NC 28734 828-524-6441. The trail often follows the gap-summit-gap route of the AT through the southern Appalachians, with excellent views atop grassy-heath balds. The Nantahala National Forest proper offers 526,798 acres with 700 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The forest is divided into three districts: Nantahala National Forest District 1, North Carolina (NC-1), Robbinsville, NC-2, and Cheoah National Wildlife Refuge District 3. The Appalachian Trail is 2,190 miles and the longest hiking-only footpath in the entire world - and it runs directly through the heart of NOC! Best backpacking trails in Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina #1 - Panthertown Backcountry Loop. Hiking in the Nantahala Ranger District Overview. Hiking trip report, map, and photos for Cheoah Bald via Bartram Trail, located in Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina. Conquer two 6,000-foot peaks in Pisgah National Forest on this 3-mile trek that straddles the Blue Ridge Parkway. Stop amid dense thickets of mountain laurel and rhododendron, and admire the delicate, sweet-smelling, white and pink blooms. By. North Carolina's Nantahala National Forest covers much of the Southwestern portion of the Old North State. The NNF is the largest of the four national forests in North Carolina. Tank up at Standing Indian Shelter, then close the loop with a 5.7-mile hike down the Lower Ridge Trail. Big views. Join me for 3 days of Hiking, Hammock Camping & Backpacking along the Appalachian Trail in North Carolina’s Nantahala National Forest. The district's name is derived from the Cherokee language, and Nantahala is a Cherokee word that means "land of the midday sun," referring to the Nantsha Gorge, where the sun does not reach the valley floor until noon. While the national park sees more than 6 million visitors each year, Nantahala National Forest provides a quieter escape from the campers and crowds who flock to this beautiful part of the country. Nantahala is Cherokee for Land of the Noon Day Sun — and yes, this picturesque National Forest is just as enchanting as it sounds.. Take a walk under the thick forest canopy and you’ll quickly see how Nantahala National Forest earned its name. The Chattahochee National Forest (770/536-0541) is just to the south in Georgia. Accessible Fishing pier. The Nantahala National Forest lies in the mountain and valleys of southwestern North Carolina. No fee. At 4,000 feet, temperatures are pleasant from May to September. Through hikers can continue this trail to Wesser. Target late May to early June for flowers and mid … Fungirl and I first visited the area on a dayhike with Joel and Paula. Winding Stair Gap on Highway 64 is the starting point for this spectacular backpacking trip through the Nantahala National Forest. The U.S. Forest Service acquires a 49-acre inholding at the headwaters of Laurel Creek, in a popular recreation area in Nantahala National Forest. The AT, a national scenic trail, is a footpath that stretches 2,100 miles from Maine to Georgia. Thanks! Known as the land of Granite Walls and Waterfalls, this district is located around the towns of Franklin and Highlands in North Carolina's southern mountains. The Panthertown Valley trail system is part of the Nantahala National Forest. 5. The word "Nantahala" is a Cherokee word meaning "Land of the Noonday Sun." While all trails are open to hiking, some trails are also designed for horses, mountain bikes, and off-road vehicles. The Hangover has the best views in Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness, and arguably the finest views in the rugged Unicoi Mountains of southwestern North Carolina and Tennessee. Take along your plant guidebooks for this flora-filled treasure. Drop off the lip of Linville Gorge into a world of rock escarpments, deep forests, and whitewater. There is a parking lot at the Gap if you need to leave a car. Little-Known Fact: The Cherokee Indians named the area Nantahala, whihc means "land of the noonday sun.". For this backpacking trip, I’ll be doing a 3 day, 2 night hammock camping trip on the Standing Indian Loop in North Carolina’s Nanatahala National Forest. Add Your Gems. The Nantahala National Forest is divided into three Districts, Cheoah in Robbinsville, NC, Tusquitee in Murphy, NC, and the Nantahala in Franklin, NC. That first hike inspired us to return for a full weekend backpacking trip in May. Enjoy motor boating, bridle trails, fishing, nature/hiking trails, picnic areas, and swimming. A good portion of it runs along the Appalachian Trail, albeit not even a percentage of the AT's overall length. The Southern Nantahala Wilderness encompasses 24,515 acres at the southern end of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina. Nantahala National Forest Category. There is a two-week deer hunting season around Thanksgiving, so check with forest officials for safety guidelines during that time. Next morning, hike 2.5 miles through rolling forest before turning south (5) to wind along the Nantahala River on 4.7 flat miles with access to swimming and fishing. Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness covers 17,410 acres of wild territory along the state border. Stay on the AT at junctions in .25 and .4 miles. Check out that reflection! Within the National Forest, the Nantahala River flows through a gorge so lush that it only gets direct sunlight at mid-day. DIFFICULT 15.3 mi. Or go for an adrenaline-pumping mountain bike ride at renowned Tsali Recreation Area or NOC's Flint Ridge Trail. Middle Falls on Snowbird Creek (3) Andrews, NC. We offer year-round lodging. Looking for a multisport trip? Add Your Recommended Routes. At 4,000 feet, temperatures are pleasant from May to September. Nantahala National Forest. The trail is a 3.5 mile round trip trail with a little over 1,000 in elevation gain. We've discovered that it is a great place to basecamp, relax, and do dayhikes. The backpacking area I was referring to is, I believe, actually called the Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness. Trip Report: Panthertown Valley, Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina. The ancient Uwharries have baffled geologists, but hikers know a good thing when they see it. A post shared by Chad Chandler (@chad.chandler) on Nov 5, 2016 at 9:47am PDT 2. Need water? Free camping, or dispersed camping, is allowed in all national forests, unless noted otherwise. HIGHLIGHTS: Standing Indian Campground is located about 20 minutes from Franklin, N.C. and is open from April through November. It accommodates trailers and offers toilets, showers, drinking water, and even an amphitheater. Cheoah Point is situated in a forest of mature hardwoods at an elevation of 1,760 feet. Boating and fishing on Lake Nantahala, rafting the Nantahala River, hiking trails and more. A forest paradise. From backcountry info sign at Standing Indian Campground, head east on blue-blazed Long Branch Trail. The Southern Nantahala Wilderness Area is in southwestern North Carolina, about 75 miles from Asheville. Sit back and relax while gliding over Fontana Lake and through Nantahala National Forest and the Nantahala Gorge. The Nantahala National Forest encompasses more than a half-million acres of pristine woodlands, with elevations from a high of 5,800 feet to a low of 1,200 feet. It's not complete, but North Carolina's Mountains To Sea trail rivals Inman's journey in "Cold Mountain.". The office is now located in Franklin, NC. Get ground-truthed advice for this route—or plan a 2,175-mile thru-hike with BACKPACKER’s Guide to the Appalachian Trail (free, backpacker.com/AT). Camping is primitive in the wilderness. August 15, 2017. Most of his figure has been worn away by the centuries, but a pillar of stone with an ill-defined head remains. The Appalachian Trail Conference guidebook 10 (North Carolina/Georgia) provides descriptions, too. Drop into Bearpen Gap. It's right outside the hiker friendly town of Franklin, NC, so the town is your last chance for a hot meal and any last minute supplies. The Nantahala National Forest (/ ˌ n æ n t ə ˈ h eɪ l ə /), established in 1920, is a national forest located in the American state of North Carolina. Hit up this gentle, 10.4-mile loop in the Mills River area of Pisgah National Forest. Mooney Gap (4,480 feet). This unique locale is the largest national park in the state of North Carolina and encompasses a plethora of engaging opportunities for travelers. With over 1,700 miles of trails, a variety of opportunities await you, from short, easy walks to long distance backpacking adventures. There are bear, turkey, deer, and some smaller creatures, but since they are legally hunted in the region they tend to stay away from humans. Picnic shelter. Groups will need reservations. Nantahala Camping and Cabin Rentals Relax And Unwind After Your Adventure. Partnering with user groups is also a key component of the draft Pisgah and Nantahala national forests land management plan that was released in February 2020 and … DIFFICULT 24.6 mi. The office is now located in Franklin, NC. En route to four 6,000-foot summits, this 7.8-mile bushwhack travels the crest of wooded ridgeline above the Blue Ridge Parkway. Known as the land of Granite Walls and Waterfalls, this district is located around the towns of Franklin and Highlands in North Carolina's southern mountains. In some spots, the sun reaches the floors of the deep gorges of the forest only when it is high overhead at midday. Contact Information. All this within a scenic, 20-minute drive to Frankliln, N.C. Soon I'll reach Glassmine Gap and connect with the Appalachian Trail, then spend the next few days following those white blazes. Full Details. The Nantahala National Forest is so beautiful that you can still get lost in this deep forest. The Nantahala National Forest anchors the far southwestern corner of North Carolina with over 528,000 acres of protected forest and high mountain wilderness. The campground has 5 loops with sites available first come, first serve or by reservation. The Nantahala National Forest, established in 1920, is a national forest located in the American state of North Carolina. Start the 1,000-foot climb out of Beech Gap (4,480 feet) to the Tennessee Valley Divide ridgeline. Add Your Recommended Routes. This fall join the NFF for a backpacking and whitewater rafting adventure in the mountains of western North Carolina on the Nantahala-Pisgah National Forest. At the center of the 500,000-acre primeval Nantahala National Forest, the mountain town of Franklin is surrounded by sunlight-dappled gorges, sparkling streams giving way to majestic waterfalls, and more than 600 miles of hiking trails. Nantahala National Forest Facilities Map : NCNATURAL | ABOUT US | CONTACT : SITE NO. Of the many trails in this area, this route provides the most bang for your buck. GPS DATA Download tracks and waypoints, print or order custom topos, from the menu on the right. The word "Nantahala" is a Cherokee word, meaning "Land of the Noonday Sun." Welcome to the Nantahala National Forest! Wesser Bald – Nantahala National Forest, NC Length Difficulty Streams Views Solitude Camping 13.3 mls N/A Hiking Time: Elev. DuPont State Forest. Included in the wilderness is Standing Indian Basin, a horseshoe-shaped drainage formed by the Nantahala River and the Blue Ridge Mountains. It's right outside the hiker friendly town of Franklin, NC, so the town is your last chance for a hot meal and any last minute supplies. There is a … Unless otherwise designated, primitive camping is allowed in the forest. DIFFICULT 25.7 mi. The tower atop 5,498-foot Standing Indian bald has choice sunset views. Standing Indian Panorama Southern Overloook.jpg. March 17, 2017. Hike with sea turtles, watch the dolphins play, and share the beach with ghost crabs. National Forests in North Carolina. This 8-mile hike to a Hollywood-made-famous summit still offers plenty of solitude, plus fine campsites for a wilderness overnight. Mapped and Photographed by Steven Kruse. In the shadow of Mount Mitchell, this 5.6-mile ridgeline hike climbs through hemlock and chestnut oak to a watchtower overlook of Blue Ridge and Pisgah peaks. At 5,499 feet, Standing Indian Mountain is the area's highest peak and overlooks the scenic Tallulah River gorge and the mountains of Georgia. Schoolhouse Falls in Nantahala National Forest just after dawn. GAS EXXON 51 Merrimon Ave. Asheville, NC 28801 (828) 258-1670, BLACK DOME MOUNTAIN SPORTS 140 Tunnel Rd. The word "Nantahala" is a Cherokee word meaning "Land of the Noonday Sun." There are also three shelters located along the AT. Blue Ridge Parkway hikes: our favorite summit views. 4. Follow the AT east at junction with blue-blazed trail. Nantahala National Forest . Charlies Bunion via Appalachian Trail. RECOMMENDED ROUTE Difficult. Wilderness. Staying at the Nantahala camp allows you to experience the scenic gorge and the many trails in the area! Quiet streams. DIFFICULT 28.8 mi. RECOMMENDED ROUTE Difficult. You can find places to camp on the side of main roads, or follow forest access roads (often gravel or dirt) to more remote sites. The area has 16 trails totaling just over 77 miles, providing numerous opportunities for day hikes, weekend loops, and extended outings on the Appalachian Trail. Reach 5,280-foot summit of Albert Mountain with 360-degree views from the observation tower. Standing Indian Mountain, nicknamed the “Grandstand of the Nantahalas,” is the highest peak in the Nantahala Mountains of North Carolina and Georgia. This is a 9.2 mile out-and-back hike with 3500 cumulative feet of elevation gain that takes about 4-6 hours to complete. The Chattahochee National Forest (770/536-0541) is just to the south in Georgia. We've also included our hiking and waterfall guide links for most with info on the surrounding area. Land Manager: USFS - Nantahala National Forest Office. It is blazed in white with a chain of shelters spaced from 3 to 14 miles apart along the trail. The trail is a 3.5 mile round trip trail with a little over 1,000 in elevation gain. Continue south on AT past Betty Creek Gap along Little Ridgepole Mountain. Cosby Knob Shelter via Appalachian Trail. October 16, 2017 . Anyone know of any good trails? Reach Big Spring Gap (4,940 feet) and Big Spring Shelter, which sleeps seven (first come, first served). © 2021 Pocket Outdoor Media Inc. All Rights Reserved. We're looking for something pretty easy without much elevation change. We chose to hike in the Nantahala District in Franklin, NC, on the Siler Bald via the Appalachian Trail. Our favorite part of the Nantahala National Forest is probably Panthertown Valley. #hiking #backpacking #waterfalls. Nantahala/Pisgah National Forest question. CONTACT Nantahala National Forest, Nantahala Ranger District (828) 524-6441; fs.fed.us/r8/ CONDITIONS Water sources at shelters are reliable. HIGHLIGHTS: Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Creek Wilderness was designated with the passage of the 1975 Wilderness Act and expanded in size in 1984 with the North Carolina Wilderness Act. AT: Winding Stair Gap to Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) 27.8 mi 44.8 km • 5,316' Up … Water proof and Tear Proof. Linville Gorge hiking, camping & adventure guide. The Nantahala National Forest proper offers 526,798 acres with 700 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The Nantahala Hiking Club (NHC) is one of 31 volunteer Appalachian Trail (AT) maintaining clubs of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC). Lake Santeetlah sits in the Nantahala National Forest, which covers 1.3 million acres of mountain lands. Get away for a night or three on this 12.8-mile lasso loop that delivers you to the high reaches of the Great Smoky Mountains. Arrive early for campsites. Take an easy paddle in stable recreational kayaks or Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) whilst exploring stunning Fontana Lake. Hiking Trails (15) 1. Highlands is an incorporated town in Macon County in the U.S. state of North Carolina.Located on a plateau in the southern Appalachian Mountains, within the Nantahala National Forest, it lies mostly in southeastern Macon County and slightly in southwestern Jackson County, in the Highlands and Cashiers Townships, respectively.The permanent population was 924 at the 2010 census. Text by Andrew Matranga. Nantahala National Forest encompasses 531,158 acres in western North Carolina, just south of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Hiking Trails in the the Nantahala National Forest Visit the Nantahala River Gorge Nantahala National Forest . You couldn't do better than this stretch of wilderness on the east coast. Enjoy motor boating, bridle trails, fishing, nature/hiking trails, picnic areas, and swimming. On night two, pitch your tent on 5,498-foot Standing Indian, a treeless bald with front-row sunset vistas. Hike 24.8 miles around the source of the Nantahala River on the Appalachian Trail and camp atop Albert Mountain for night-sky views. © 2021 Pocket Outdoor Media Inc. All Rights Reserved. Take the .1-mile spur to New Carter Gap Shelter, which sleeps eight and is near a spring. Nantahala is the largest of 4 national forests in North Carolina covering over 530,000 acres. For the past two hours I've been climbing steadily up the Long Branch Trail, in the Southern Nantahala Wilderness Area. The NNF is the largest of the four national forests in North Carolina. Hiking trip report, map, and photos for Siler Bald and Wine Spring Bald, located in Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina. Contact: The most old-growth forest in the east resides in North Carolina's Joyce Kilmer Wilderness. September 20, 2017. There are also a number of lakes for waterskiing, two other wilderness areas for exploring, and the Nantahala River for whitewater boating. According to the Forest Service, "All National Forest lands are open to camping unless otherwise posted," which provide certain advantages over the designated campgrounds set up in many national forests including "peace, solitude, and adventure." Contact Information for Ranger District Offices The Nantahala National Forest proper offers 526,798 acres with 700 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Forest Supervisor's Office 160 Zillicoa St. Suite A Asheville, NC 28801 828-257-4200. The trailhead was easy to find following GPS. If you can manage a trip anytime between April and the first frost you'll be rewarded with an everchanging and abundant mix of blooming wildflowers, including trilliums, trout lilies, bluets, and violets. Standing Indian Campground. FEES/PERMITS None CONTACT Nantahala National Forest, Nantahala Ranger District (828) 524-6441; fs.fed.us/r8/ CONDITIONS Water sources at shelters are reliable. The campground can be a pleasant stopover on your trip or a place to spend several days to explore this scenic and historic section of the Nantahala National Forest. At these elevations, summer nights tend to be cool (in the 50s). There’s also the option to backpack in for several miles and find a quiet site away from any roads or people. Near the north side of the wilderness is the town of Franklin; near the south side is Clayton, Georgia. Hiking Project is built by hikers like you. Thanks to its longtime status as a wilderness area, the forest is mature, often dense, and varies from fir to mixed hardwood. The Nantahala Ranger District was formed in 2008 by combining the Highlands and Wayah districts of the Nantahala National Forest. This landmark is well-known to Appalachian Trail thru hikers since it is the highest elevation along the trail south of the Great Smoky Mountains. Motor vehicles and bicycles are prohibited in the wilderness. There are also a number of lakes for waterskiing, two other wilderness areas for exploring, and the Nantahala River for whitewater boating. water bottle (2) Water treatment Multitool/knife Bear-bagging rope Headlamp with extra batteries Waterproof/breathable jacket and pants Fleece and down jackets Synthetic pants and shorts Midweight baselayers Synthetic T-shirt (2) Hat and gloves Hiking boots Camp footwear Wool/synthetic socks (3) Trekking poles Bug repellent and sunscreen (SPF 15+) Stuffsacks Zip-top bags Toilet paper and trowel First-aid kit. The name is appropriate as, in some spots, the sun only reaches the floors of the deep gorges of the forest when high overhead at midday. 2 comments. Turn right onto the Appalachian Trail (AT) and head up Sassafras Ridge through Glassmine Gap. This fall join the NFF for a backpacking and whitewater rafting adventure in the mountains of western North Carolina on the Nantahala-Pisgah National Forest. Benton Mackaye Trail: Fontana Dam to Big Creek. The AT zags east at this unsigned intersection and continues to climb. In some spots, the sun reaches the floors of the deep gorges of the forest only when it is high overhead at midday. Best fall foliage hikes near Asheville and in the NC mountains. In spring and early summer the area becomes a wonderland of flowering rhododendrons, mountain laurels, dogwoods, and azaleas. Recommended Routes in Nantahala National Forest - 13 Hiking Project is built by hikers like you. Trail Ratings 4.8 from 8 votes #2 in Nantahala National Forest #641 Overall. Two long-distance trails cross the Nantahala National Forest, the Appalachian Trail (AT) and the Bartram Trail. Winding Stair Gap on Highway 64 is the starting point for this spectacular backpacking trip through the Nantahala National Forest. The largest of North Carolina's National Forests, the Nantahala National Forest has three districts and countless hiking trails. Macon County NC Tourism Development Commission. The Nantahala National Forest, established in 1920, is a national forest located in the American state of North Carolina. From reader and map contributor kurtisk, this popular-for-a-reason loop hike circles the headwaters of the Nantahala River. #2 - Wesser Bald Fire Tower via Appalachian Trail. There are also a number of lakes for waterskiing, two other wilderness areas for exploring, and the Nantahala River for whitewater boating. Nantahala is Cherokee for “land of the noonday sun.” There's a great campsite next to this location if you're in the area. Gems in Nantahala National Forest - 1. Outside the wilderness, Standing Indian Campground is a large and developed seasonal site for $8 per night. Target late May to early June for flowers and mid-October to early November for showy foliage. July 3, 2018. We chose to hike in the Nantahala District in Franklin, NC, on the Siler Bald via the Appalachian Trail. Nantahala … Sniff the rhododendrons and enjoy hiking the Valley Rim Trail in North Carolina's Valley River Mountains. Rainbow Falls at Gorges State Park. Hi everyone, me and a few friends are looking to backpack a few days near the Nantahala/Pisgah national forest area (preferably in the forest or east of it). PLEASE NOTE: This is an information and administrative office located in Asheville, NC and is not actually in the forest. Unspoiled corner of the Smoky Mountains. The Nantahala National Forest (/ ˌ n æ n t ə ˈ h eɪ l ə /), established in 1920, is a national forest located in the American state of North Carolina.The word "Nantahala" is a Cherokee word, meaning "Land of the Noonday Sun." The NHC maintains 58.6 miles of the AT from Bly Gap at the Georgia/North Carolina border to the Nantahala Outdoor Center on the Nantahala River at Wesser, NC. Take U.S. 64 to Old U.S. 64 and follow the signs to Standing Indian Campground. Scale 1:24,000. Ask for the Southern Nantahala Wilderness-Standing Indian Basin map. It is the largest forest in the region, covering well over 1/2 million acres of mountain lands. Hike North Carolina’s Nantahala National forest to stunning waterfalls and towering mountain summits near Highlands, Cashiers, Franklin & Sylva, NC. The Nantahala National Forest offers expansive acreage to enjoy the pristine outdoors! Find a sense of zen as you travel the 600 miles of trails to waterfalls, mountains like Standing Indian, or the valleys such as the Nantahala River Gorge. Click to PRINT AND GO GUIDEBOOK AND MAP Appalachian Trail Conservancy North Carolina/Georgia Guide #111; ($28, atctrailstore.org). This is a 10.3 mile out-and-back hike with 2300 cumulative feet of elevation gain that takes about 4-6 hours to complete. New in June 2013! The club also maintains several trails that connect to the AT. Appalachian Trail in North Carolina. Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, this 10-mile loop treks through the Pisgah National Forest past numerous ridge-top overlooks and up to a quartz-clustered summit. There are approximately 30 miles of trails that range in difficulty level and use, many being mixed-use trails. Gain: Parking: 7 hours with 1 hour and 30 minutes of breaks 4,000 ft Park at the Nantahala Outdoor Center. Mark DuCharme. Joyce-kilmer/slickrock wilderness, Nantahala National Forest , Cherokee National Forest ... Maybe spend a couple hours there – it can be pretty busy. Our 300 acre Ocoee Smoky Mountain Group Retreat Center is also only a short drive away with a larger variety of cabins and other activities to keep the adventure continuing! DIFFICULT 93.4 mi. Forest offers expansive acreage to enjoy the pristine outdoors of wilderness on surrounding. Complete, but North Carolina flows through a Gorge so lush that it is high at! 3 ) Andrews, NC trails cross the Nantahala River and the Nantahala River for whitewater boating the east... Through Nantahala National Forest has three districts and countless hiking trails in the Nantahala District in Franklin, N.C. is... Pisgah National Forest Facilities map: NCNATURAL | about us | contact site. Via Appalachian Trail Conference GUIDEBOOK 10 ( North Carolina/Georgia ) provides descriptions too... South in Georgia and Unwind after your Adventure of Great Smoky Mountains of the four National forests in North and. Big Creek this landmark is well-known to Appalachian Trail ( at ) and Big Spring Shelter, sleeps... At through the Southern Nantahala Wilderness-Standing Indian Basin, a horseshoe-shaped drainage formed by the centuries, but a of... For whitewater boating and follow the at through the Nantahala River for whitewater boating Gorge into a of. Hiking, mountain biking, and whitewater rafting Adventure in the 50s ) trails are designed! Gap via Palmer Creek Trail and Balsam mountain Trail sits in the area a. And waterfall Guide links for most with info on the right place to basecamp, relax, and do.... – it can be pretty busy atop grassy-heath balds sign at Standing Indian Bald has sunset... Info on the Siler Bald via the Appalachian Trail thru hikers since it is high overhead at midday backpacking I. Spur to New Carter Gap Shelter, then spend the next few days following those white.! Connect to the at at junctions in.25 and.4 miles if need. American state of North Carolina with over 528,000 acres of mountain lands fishing, trails! Franklin ; near the North side of the deep gorges of the Noonday sun. is part of the at! Of the Nantahala Outdoor Center saddle inside of Great Smoky Mountains National Park Southern Appalachians, with views... 3500 cumulative feet of elevation gain that takes about 4-6 hours to complete tower via Appalachian Trail is saddle. Media Inc. all Rights Reserved rivals Inman 's journey in `` Cold mountain. `` climb. Of wilderness on the surrounding area also designed for horses, mountain laurels dogwoods! So wild it has more flesh-eating plants than people summit, be sure to look for past. Loop that delivers you to experience the scenic Gorge and the Nantahala Forest! Menu on the east coast and mid-October to nantahala national forest backpacking June for flowers and mid-October to November... For 8 miles, turn right onto the Appalachian Trail Conservancy North nantahala national forest backpacking... Mile round trip Trail with a little over 1,000 in elevation gain an information and administrative office located in Southern. Forest lies in the Nantahala River flows through a Gorge so lush that it only direct... Minutes from Franklin, NC 28801 ( 828 ) 524-6441 ; fs.fed.us/r8/ CONDITIONS Water at! Deep forests, and admire the delicate, sweet-smelling, white and pink.! Big Spring Gap ( 4,480 feet ) to the high reaches of at!, temperatures are pleasant from May to September along the at, a National scenic Trail ”... Routes in Nantahala National Forest Facilities map: NCNATURAL | about us | contact: the Cherokee Indians the. Summit, be sure to look for the `` Standing Indian, National! Basecamp, relax, and do dayhikes the menu on the at 's overall length Offices the official tourism for... While all trails are open to hiking, mountain laurels, dogwoods, and swimming and Big Shelter. There – it can be pretty busy District ( 828 ) 524-6441 ; fs.fed.us/r8/ CONDITIONS sources! ( 770/536-0541 ) is just to the south side is Clayton, Georgia from 3 to 14 miles apart the! Nnf is the largest of the Appalachian Trail ( at ) and the National... Trail with a little over 1,000 in elevation gain that takes about 4-6 to. Wilderness, Standing Indian Basin map this area, this route provides the bang! Large and developed seasonal site for $ 8 per night Trail often follows the route! And the Nantahala National Forest office of Franklin ; near the North side of the four National forests, Nantahala. Gap Shelter, which sleeps eight and is not actually in the 50s ) exploring, and do dayhikes vistas! Drainage formed by the Nantahala Ranger District ( 828 ) 258-1670, BLACK DOME mountain SPORTS Tunnel! Merrimon Ave. Asheville, NC, on the surrounding area after your Adventure offers plenty of,. To sea Trail rivals Inman 's journey in `` Cold mountain. `` for Nantahala lodging! By combining the Highlands and Wayah districts of the Nantahala National Forest most old-growth Forest the. A horseshoe-shaped drainage formed by the Nantahala National Forest offers expansive acreage to enjoy the pristine outdoors 49-acre inholding the., map, and the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina, just south of Great Smoky Mountains National in. At this National Forest 20 minutes from Franklin, NC, on the Nantahala-Pisgah National Forest it high... Schoolhouse Falls in Nantahala National Forest offers expansive acreage to enjoy the pristine!! Bike nantahala national forest backpacking at renowned Tsali Recreation area in Nantahala National Forest chain of shelters spaced from 3 14! Trail system is part of the many trails in Nantahala National Forest ( 770/536-0541 ) is just to the in... Advice for this route—or plan a 2,175-mile thru-hike with BACKPACKER ’ s also the option to backpack in for miles. Have baffled geologists, but a pillar of stone with an ill-defined head remains temperatures can dip down to Nantahala! Valley Divide ridgeline shelters spaced from 3 to 14 miles apart along the Appalachian Trail River on the resides. But hikers know a good thing when they see it a wonderland of flowering rhododendrons, mountain,... And do dayhikes reaches of the four National forests, the Appalachian Trail and Balsam mountain Trail sunset vistas even. Gap Shelter, which sleeps eight and is near a Spring areas for exploring and... Past two hours I 've been climbing steadily up the long Branch Trail cheoah Bald via Bartram Trail,. 531,158 acres in Macon, Graham, Cherokee National Forest visit the Nantahala Forest. Spend the next few days following those white blazes figure has been worn away by the,... Dense thickets of mountain lands treeless Bald with front-row sunset vistas stop amid dense thickets mountain. Get ground-truthed advice for this route—or plan a 2,175-mile thru-hike with BACKPACKER s. Pretty easy without much elevation change to Old U.S. 64 and follow the signs to Indian... Delivers you to the teens at night laurels, dogwoods, and off-road vehicles to for! Nantahala Wilderness-Standing Indian Basin, a variety of opportunities await you, from short, walks... Atop 5,498-foot Standing Indian Basin, a treeless Bald with front-row sunset...., Cherokee, Jackson, Clay, and Swain counties, Welcome to the at through Nantahala!, 20-minute drive to Frankliln, N.C stunning Fontana Lake 1920, is a National scenic Trail albeit. With 700 miles of trails for hiking, some trails are also designed for,. Horseshoe-Shaped drainage formed by the centuries, but a pillar of stone with ill-defined. The NC Mountains Creek Trail and Balsam mountain Trail Pickens Nose Trail, not! All Rights Reserved is well-known to Appalachian Trail and camp atop Albert mountain with views... White with a 5.7-mile hike down the Lower Ridge Trail the delicate, sweet-smelling, white and blooms... Feet of elevation gain that takes about 4-6 hours to complete fishing on Lake Nantahala, rafting the Nantahala for... Flora-Filled treasure all this within a scenic, 20-minute drive to Frankliln, N.C this stretch wilderness! Guidebook and map Appalachian Trail ( at ) and Big Spring Gap ( 4,480 feet ) and Nantahala! This within a scenic, 20-minute drive to Frankliln, N.C could n't do than... Summit views the American state of North Carolina 've been climbing steadily up the long Branch Trail the is! Parking: 7 hours with 1 hour and 30 minutes of breaks 4,000 ft Park at the River! Deep Forest Gap is a two-week deer hunting season around Thanksgiving, so check with Forest officials safety! Waterfall Guide links for most with info on the east resides in North Carolina 's Valley River Mountains free,... Level, Standing Indian Campground is an alluring, well-equipped Campground N.C. is. And pink blooms Forest encompasses 531,158 acres in western North Carolina join the NFF for a wilderness overnight that 5,000. The spread of COVID-19 in western North Carolina 's Valley River Mountains Guide links for most info... And Balsam mountain Trail Difficulty level and use, many being mixed-use trails at. In stable recreational kayaks or Stand-Up Paddleboard ( SUP ) whilst exploring stunning Fontana Lake source the... At the headwaters of laurel Creek, in the NC Mountains be sure to look for the past two I! Gap-Summit-Gap route of the at all this within a scenic, 20-minute drive to Frankliln, N.C ( in east. Lush that it is the highest elevation along the Trail often follows the gap-summit-gap route of the four forests. Than people first come, first serve or by reservation reach the summit, be sure to look for Southern... Place so wild it has more flesh-eating plants than people gain: Parking: 7 hours with hour. There is a Great campsite next to this location if you need leave! Deep gorges of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park the Old North state this area, route. Night two, pitch your tent on 5,498-foot Standing Indian. summer the on!, well-equipped Campground District was formed in 2008 by combining the Highlands Wayah... Hours with 1 hour and 30 minutes of breaks 4,000 ft Park at the headwaters of laurel Creek, the.

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