Posts

Hiking Mt. Sterling

Intro

Mt. Sterling towers above the Pigeon River Gorge on the northern end of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Sterling is a mountain steeped in history and covered in an elegant mix of hardwood and evergreen forestry.

The mountain was mistakenly named after a 2 foot streak of lead that crosses the Pigeon River on the Northern foot of the mighty mountain. Prospectors flocked in search of silver that was never found. Nowadays, visitors still come in search of metal, in the form of the east coast’s highest remaining fire tower.

On Sterling’s 5,842 foot summit stands a rickety and rusted, 60 foot tower which peaks above the surrounding forestry to give brave onlookers a sprawling view of the surrounding beauties of Southern Appalachia. It’s actually the tallest existing true fire tower in the South. (Want to explore WNC fire towers?)

What Makes It Great

In terms of a view, the one achieved from braving the harrowing and narrowing steps of the Mt. Sterling fire tower is unparalleled. Once you’ve adjusted to the swaying old fire tower, you can enjoy panoramic vistas in all directions.

The most popular approach to Sterling’s summit starts out at Mt. Sterling Gap and involves a 5 mile round-trip through the woods. The Gap is in the middle of a remote and rugged stretch of road that is historically known as “The Old Cataloochee Turnpike.”

From the Mt. Sterling Gap Trailhead, hikers begin their journey on the aptly named Mt. Sterling Trail. For 2.3 miles, the trail winds upwards 2,000 feet along Sterling’s flanks through old-growth fir forests lined with fascinating flora. Once you’ve completed this section of trail, the path turns to the right and gently follows the ridge line of Mt. Sterling for another .4 mile to its summit. The summit is home to a fragrant evergreen forest and backcountry campsite #38.

Water can be found roughly .2 mile past the summit down the well-signed Baxter Creek Trail. Although beautiful, the summit itself does not offer any long range views. View seekers must make their way up the tower to obtain a scenic perspective.

Who is Going to Love It

Adventurous hikers who desire a memorable view are really going to find what they are looking for on this mountain. The tower provides some incredible photo ops and an almost unimaginably expansive view of the Smokies, as well as Pisgah and Cherokee National Forests. If you enjoy the pungent aroma of evergreens, then the forests of Mt. Sterling are the perfect place to come to stimulate your sense of smell.

Hikers looking for a more strenuous day can take the Baxter Creek trail for a strenuous 6.2 mile approach to Sterling’s summit from the Big Creek Campground area.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

From Asheville, take Interstate 40 west to the North Carolina/Tennessee state line and take exit 451 for Waterville. Turn left and cross the bridge onto Waterville Road. After 2 miles, you will come to a four-way intersection. Take a left onto Mt. Sterling Road and continue for 6.7 miles on the gravel road until reaching the sign for Mt. Sterling Gap.

If you are up for a scenic drive after your hike, continue in the same direction on The Old Cataloochee Turnpike into Cataloochee Valley to view historic sites and famous wildlife. Well marked signs will help you return from Cataloochee Valley to Interstate 40.

No fees or permits are required for a day hike to Mt. Sterling but you must register ahead of time for a spot at backcountry campsite #38.

Featured image provided by Miguel Vieira

/by

Hiking Max Patch

Intro

The Appalachian Trail follows the crest of the Appalachians along the North Carolina and Tennessee state line. In between the soaring mountains of the Great Smokies and the rolling hills of Hot Springs, the AT passes over the grassy bald known as Max Patch. The man-made meadow on top of the mountain was once home to large herds of grazing cattle. Today, the luscious green summit is home to one of the most acclaimed view-points in the Southeast and the herds have switched from bovine beasts to outdoor enthusiasts. A variety of trails can be used to access Max Patch. The most popular and pedestrian of the choices leads hikers to the grassy summit on a short, half -mile climb to the top.

What Makes It Great

At 4,600 feet, Max Patch is not a particularly high mountain, yet the views from the top are highly acclaimed. The view’s infamy comes from its grass covered summit stage, which offers long range views in every direction. The view is framed to the southwest by the northern giants of the National Park: Mt. Guyot, Mt. Sterling and Big Cataloochee. The Plott and Great Balsam Ranges paint the southeastern skyline while the towering crest of the Black Mountains stands guard to the east and the Roans to the north. The Patch is surrounded by picturesque rolling hills and mountains leading up to these mighty ridge lines in three directions. To the west, however, an uninterrupted view over the lush expanse of Tennessee allows for a famously stunning sunset view.

Several trail options line the sides and summit of Max Path. From the parking lot, visitors can take the direct route to the summit for a 1-mile round trip or the 2.4 miles loop which circumnavigates The Patch. Those looking for a prolonged jaunt through the woods can follow the AT north or south as far as their hearts desire.

Who is Going to Love It

Photographers will find life-list photo opportunities atop Max Patch thanks to its ideal location on the western edge of the Appalachians. Bring your tripod along and set up for spectacular stellar and sunset shots. (Looking for more photogenic landscapes?) Romantics can take full advantage of Max Patch’s beauty by packing a blanket and picnic lunch to the easy access summit. Cap off your romantic evening as you return towards Asheville by taking a dip in the dreamy waters of nearby Hot Springs Resort. Anglers, bring your gear and cast a line in the Forest Service pond just past the parking area. The brave even venture to The Patch in winter for skiing and sledding amongst the sublime scenery.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

A trio of route options leads to Max Patch from Asheville. If you choose to tackle these routes in winter, come prepared with an emergency kit and snow-worthy vehicle. There is no access fee for the trailhead. Camping is allowed in nearby areas, but is prohibited on the summit itself. Venture just past the summit for the prime locations. Bring your fury friend along for this outing: the area is dog friendly and they will thoroughly enjoy the grassy summit!

Featured image provided by Jake Wheeler

/by

Playing in the Pisgah: How to Spend a Weekend in Western Carolina

It’s no secret that the mountains of Western North Carolina have a wide array of wonderful places to live and play. With vibrant mountain towns like Boone, Brevard, and Asheville, as well as well-preserved national forests and serpentine scenic highways, it’s easy to see why so many people choose to visit this area. If you’re going on vacation this holiday season, make sure the Pisgah is on the top of your list. And while you’re there, use this weekend guide for a night of camping and a day of hiking and trail running.

Friday Night (4:30pm – 7:00am): Davidson Campground

Car camping at Davidson Campground
Car camping at Davidson Campground.
Jake Wheeler

Open year-around with over 160 campsites for tents and cars, the Davidson River Campground is a great place to make a home base for your weekend in the Pisgah. Nestled just inside the Pisgah National Forest, and only three miles from Brevard, the campground is at the foot of the Art Loeb Trail and just minutes from other well-known destinations like John Rock and Looking Glass Rock.

And with Brevard being so nearby, you have the ability to grab any last minute supplies you may need before entering the park for the weekend. Even better, the Pisgah Ranger Station is conveniently located across the street to help with any last minute adventure questions before you start your day. We suggest finding a campsite that sits along the Davidson River, offering you quick access to a trail that runs along the river—great for a moonlight hike.

Saturday Morning Hike (7:30am – 11:30am): John Rock Loop

John Rock Loop
John Rock Loop
Jake Wheeler

Only a few miles from the Davidson Campground, start your day off by experiencing the stunning views of Pisgah’s gorgeous wilderness and mountains. Primitive tent camping is allowed here as well, so if you want to set up camp at the foot of John Rock, you may.

With over 1,000-feet of elevation gain, this 5.5 mile hike will get your blood pumping and your heart thumping. You will find yourself quickly shedding layers, as you walk through tunnels of rhododendron forests with the rising sun guiding you playfully along the trail. Once you get the top of John Rock, you are greeted with a huge rock slab that offers breathtaking views of the outstretching valley below, the Pisgah Ridge, and across the way to Looking Glass Rock.

Enjoy a light snack at the top, a quick drink of water, and prepare for a brisk walk down to the trailhead for your next stop…lunch!

Lunch (12:00pm – 1:00pm): Looking Glass Falls

Only a short three minute drive from the John Rock Loop Trailhead, enjoy a mountain meal with the accompanying sounds of the roaring 60-foot Looking Glass Falls. Pack your picnic basket and head just a few hundred yards from the parking lot and witness one of North Carolina’s most pristine and powerful waterfalls. Steps lead down to the base of the falls, making it easy to carry any lunchtime supplies and offering you a perspective that will truly humble you. Scramble around the rocks, watch out for ice in the winter seasons, and find a scenic spot to fuel up for your next adventure: Looking Glass Rock!

Saturday Afternoon Hike (1:30pm – 4:30pm): Looking Glass Rock

Looking Glass Rock
Looking Glass Rock
Jake Wheeler

Fill up your hydration pack and throw some nutrition in your pocket—you’ll need it. The trail to Looking Glass Rock is steep—climbing 1,700-feet in just over three miles and taking hikers and runners along a cascading mountain stream and through granite rock outcroppings and root gardens, which only add to the challenge. But after you weave through these hairpin switchback turns, and along trails coated with blankets of fall leaves, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most majestic views on the East Coast. The views are simply stunning! Definitely worth the physical expenditure.

The Pisgah National Forest offers great outdoor recreation possibilities for all ages and abilities. This is a great weekend trip for anyone looking to escape to the mountains. We recommend grabbing all your food needs in the town of Brevard before you escape. Whether it is your first time pitching a tent, or you’re a seasoned trail running vet, the Pisgah is a true slice of weekend adventure heaven.

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Originally written by RootsRated.

Featured image provided by Jake Wheeler

/by

30 Reasons Why Autumn Is the Best Season to Get Outside in Asheville

The color experts predict our warm, dry winter and wet, temperate summer have set ideal conditions for a bright and healthy 2017 fall color show in the North Carolina mountains. Dr. Howard S. Neufeld, professor of biology and the “fall color guy” at Appalachian State University in Boone, says healthy trees will add to bright yellows joining the familiar orange and purple hues that mark autumn in the Asheville area. The Blue Ridge Mountains put on a show that spans six to eight weeks thanks to the variation in elevation throughout the region, according to RomanticAsheville.com.

There’s nothing quite like fall in Western Carolina — when the mountain air turns crisp and cool, the nostalgia comes flooding back with overwhelming waves of inexplicable sensation. Here are 30 reasons why autumn in Asheville is the most spectacular time of year.

1. Months of Foliage

The mountains of Western Carolina donning their fiery October red.
The mountains of Western Carolina donning their fiery October red.
Sarah Zucca

Due to early frost, warm weather, and a dramatic variance in elevation, the Blue Ridge boasts one of the most brilliant and long-lasting displays of foliage in the country. What a spectacular season to wander through the mountains, from high up in Craggy Gardens and Graveyard Fields, which are the first to turn, to the relative low country of Lake Lure and Chimney Rock, which are the last to peak in early November.

2. Sleep Soundly

It's more comfortable than it looks!
It’s more comfortable than it looks!
David Clarke

Say goodbye to the restless, muggy nights of summer. A slight drop in body temperature is actually conducive to falling asleep and waking up refreshed, so curl up in your down sleeping bag and enjoy a chilly fall night under the stars. Check out Mt. Pisgah Campground, perched high in the Pisgah National Forest. Or, just sleep with the windows open!

3. Fall Festival Season is Back

Asheville Outdoor Show at Salvage Station.
Kelty

Festival season never really stops in the North Carolina mountains, but there’s an ah-mazin’ run from the Asheville Outdoor Show in September to the Asheville Holiday Parade in November. Fall also plays host to Goombay, Autumn at Oz, LEAF, and more. Head out to Franklin for PumpkinFest, an iconic mountain celebration featuring the World Famous Pumpkin Roll.

4. Happy Dogs

Happiest dog ever.
Happiest dog ever.
Peter Laurent

Dogs across the Southeast are breathing a sigh of relief now that the temperatures are finally dropping. With her fur coat no longer a burden, your dog is happily anticipating a brisk season of chasing balls, rolling in dead leaves, and accompanying you on those long, refreshing hikes.

5. Seasonal Brews

One of the most compelling reasons to get outside this season is what’s waiting for you when you return: lots of seasonal craft favorites like Asheville Brewing Company‘s Carolina Mountain Monster Imperial Stout, Catawba Brewing Company‘s King Don’s Pumpkin Ale, and Hi-Wire Brewing‘s Apricot Sour Ale. Spend some time exploring the stunning landscapes of Linville Gorge Wilderness or Pantertown Valley, then put your feet up and indulge with a sensational season brew. If a day of tasting is more of your thing, Asheville Oktoberfest can’t be beat.

6. Invigoration

Feeling inspired to go for a long hike? Not surprising.
Feeling inspired to go for a long hike? Not surprising.
Rachel Titiriga

Is it the snap in the air, the sweet relief from August’s humidity, or the backdrop of orange and gold that makes us feel so alive and and alert? Autumn breathes new life into the soul and the landscape, painting the mountains burgundy, turning cheeks pink, and instilling a craving for hard work and adventure. Channel this burst of energy by tackling some of the best trail running spots in the area.

7. Crunchy Leaves

Don't you want to crunch it?
Don’t you want to crunch it?
Nana B Agyei

There’s something so satisfying and quintessentially autumn about crunching your heal down on a dry, brittle leaf. It adds yet another element of tactile delight to the endless hiking trails that surround Asheville.

8. No More Pests
The air is clear of pollen, mosquitos are no longer swarming, and poison ivy has lost its summer potency. Overall, the wilderness is a more friendly, comfortable, and inviting place to lose yourself for the weekend.

9. Cooler Races

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s folks in Asheville keeping things weird!
Asheville Running Experience

Weekend warriors, get ready! Not only is the temperature cooler, but the races have more spunk and personality. The Asheville Running Experience offers five events over three days: ARX Happening, ARX Half Marathon, Asheville Brewing Super Hero 5K & Fun Run, Asheville Urban Odyssey presented by Frugal Backpacker, and Chasing Trail 8K. The cooler season also sees Asheville’s oldest running event, the Thomas Wolfe 8K; the Shut-In Ridge Trail Race; and the Asheville Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving.

10. Empty Swimming Holes 

So cold. But so worth it.
So cold. But so worth it.
Melina Coogan

September still has its fair share of 80+ degree days and there is a major perk to taking an early fall dip: with the kids back in school and the holidays over, you might find some peaceful solitude at the region’s best swimming holes and have swimmable waterfalls all to yourself!

11. Whitewater Races

Kayaking racing season in full force
Kayak racing season in full force.
Melina Coogan

Kayakers, take your marks! The Green Race — one of the greatest spectacles in outdoor sports — takes place on the first Saturday of November.

12. Apple Orchards 

This dog seriously loves apples
This dog seriously loves apples.
Melina Coogan

In terms of classic fall adventure, nothing compares to the endless delights of an apple orchard. Go for a hay ride, hang out with a scarecrow, sip on warm cider. Picking apples under bright cobalt skies is the perfect excuse to get the whole family outside for the day.

13. Stock Up On Gear

We kick off the fall season with an awesome Labor Day Sale and keep the local love coming throughout the season to ensure everyone has the “Asheville uniform:” plaid shirt, vest, and beanie or trucker hat. Perfect for days spent on the trail and nights spent on the town.

14. Driving with the windows down

Ahhh, yes.
Ahhh, yes!
Chovee

For the past four months, driving has been either sweltering hot or artificially freezing. Fall brings the immense pleasure of driving with the windows down, making your commute to the trailhead downright enjoyable. Blast the radio and cruise The Blue Ridge Parkway (America’s longest linear park!) with fresh air rushing in and your hair flying in the breeze.

15. Bouldering Season

It's bouldering season again.
It’s bouldering season again.
Melina Coogan

September kicks off the start of bouldering season in Western Carolina; the air is snappy and the holds are grippy! Throw on your wool beanie, chalk up, and get thee to Rumbling Bald.

16. Pumpkin Seeds

One of the best ways to spend a fall evening with friends
One of the best ways to spend a fall evening with friends
Melina Coogan

As if you needed another reason to carve a pumpkin: those pepitas (or pumpkin seeds) are chalk full of magnesium, manganese, and protein. Roast them with a little sea salt and bring them along on your next hiking session for a healthy, locally grown snack. Churches, schools, and civic organizations all sell pumpkins as fundraisers, so you can feel even better about your new orange purchase.

17. Cozy Dates

Catching the last of the sun's rays on Black Balsam Knob.
Catching the last of the sun’s rays on Black Balsam Knob.
Melina Coogan

It’s only natural that we’re all looking for love before winter sets in. That, combined with the inherent coziness of shorter days and blustery weather, makes autumn the optimal season for dating. Check out these romantic fall outings for you and your sweetie.

18. Scarf Season

Apparently, scarf season isn't just for humans.
Apparently, scarf season isn’t just for humans.
Melina Coogan

Be it chunky knit cowl or fine wool wrap, we all appreciate the little boost of being bundled up in a bright scarf. Part fashion and part good sense, it’s the perfect accessory for heading outdoors, out with friends, or to the office.

19. Leaf Piles

At the intersection of household chores and childhood delights, enormous leaf piles are autumn’s answer to the swimming hole. Rake one up and dive right in — you know you want to.

20. Bonfires

There's nothing quite like the smell of campfires in autumn
There’s nothing quite like the smell of campfires in autumn.
Melina Coogan

Stave off brisk evenings and impending darkness with the warmth and glow of a backyard bonfire. Invite some friends, toast a marshmallow, and crack open some cheer. For many people, wood smoke is one of the most pleasant and nostalgic smells out there. Kick back, breathe deep, and enjoy!

21. Afternoon Light

Taking a break to lounge in the autumnal glow
Taking a break to lounge in the autumnal glow.
Melina Coogan

By mid-October, the foliage has reached the height of its splendor. When late afternoon sunlight filters through the deciduous canopy, the forest is transformed into a shifting kaleidoscope of gold, amber, and scarlet. Even the most focused and dialed-in adventurer will take a moment to pause and moved by this display of mountain glory.

22. Photography

With such an exuberant spectrum of color and texture, fall is a dynamic season for anyone with an eye for photography. Capture every radiant detail from a single copper leaf to a whole sweeping landscape. (We recommend visiting these particularly photogenic places during peak foliage.)

23. Foggy Morning Trail Runs

Rising early with the fog to enjoy a trail run is about as good as it gets
Rising early with the fog to enjoy a trail run is about as good as it gets.
Beau B

What could be a better start to your day than a trail run through the still-quiet fog of an October morning? Perhaps you’ll even see the silver of the season’s first frost feathering the grass and leaves before the warmth of the daylight melts it away.

24. Race Bikes at Oskar Blues 

The sublimely named Dirt Diggler Gravel Grinder will be held in September at the Oskar Blue REEB Ranch. This hybrid bike race is a 50/50 blend of gravel and pavement, capped off with 2 miles of sweet single track. If it’s not your thing, biking through the meandering roads of Transylvania County is great or you can also experience DuPont National Forest‘s autumn finery by foot.

25. Hot Coffee on Cold Mountain Mornings

Toboggans and piping hot coffee: two surefire signs that fall is in the air.
Toboggans and piping hot coffee: two surefire signs that fall is in the air.
Melina Coogan

Simply put, waking up in the mountains on a cold fall morning, preparing a hot cup of coffee, and watching the steam rise against the brightening sky is one of the greatest pleasures on earth. If you prefer a barista to craft your cup o’ joe, High Five‘s Riverside Drive location on the French Broad River in Woodfin has a great view.

26. Petrichor

Fall brings the possibility of passing tropical storms, bringing strong winds and heavy precipitation to the Blue Ridge. Rivers rise, gardens thrive, and we get to experience petrichor — that wonderful earthy scent that occurs after a hard rain falls on dry earth. For a rejuvenating adventure, check out a riverside hike such as the Laurel River Trail after a rainstorm and breathe deep.

27. Corn Mazes

Getting lost in a corn maze is one of the most quintessentially autumn things you can do.
Getting lost in a corn maze is one of the most quintessentially autumn things you can do.
Kevin Zamani

Getting lost amongst the stalks: it’s an autumnal right of passage. Check out the Eliada Corn Maze, just five minutes from Downtown Asheville. One hundred percent of proceeds go directly to Eliada Children’s Home.

28. Sunny Days on the Rock

Autumn is the most enjoyable time of year to explore the local crags. The rock is no longer sweating in the summer sun and the views from the top are more beautiful than ever. Tie onto the sharp end and tackle the iconic multi-pitches at Looking Glass Rock in the cool breeze, without fear of burning up.

29. Cider Season

There are a lot of cozy things about fall, but cider might just be the coziest of all.
There are a lot of cozy things about fall, but cider might just be the coziest of all.
Melina Coogan

We may not fully understand the difference between apple juice and apple cider, but we know that cider is by far the more delicious way to rehydrate after a long ride, especially when it’s fresh pressed from the orchards of Western Carolina. For the hard stuff, be sure to check out CiderFest NC in October to taste some of the region’s finest.

30. The First Dusting of Snow

The faintest of dustings near Black Balsam Knob
The faintest of dustings near Black Balsam Knob
Melina Coogan

Sometime in late October, we’ll wake up and catch our first glimpse of the Blue Ridge Mountains dusted in snow. Then we’ll enjoy a brief and vibrant few weeks of frosty mornings coupled with warm days before winter takes its hold on the land. For outdoor enthusiasts, this means only one thing — ski season is just around the corner.

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Originally written by RootsRated.

Featured image provided by flattop341

/by

Total Solar Eclipse Checklist

Your opportunity to experience a rare total solar eclipse in western North Carolina arrives on Monday, August 21. To make sure you’re prepared and packed for totality, the experts at Diamond Brand Outdoors have assembled this helpful checklist. For more on what to expect, check out Everything You Need to Know About August’s Total Solar Eclipse.

Click here for a printer-friendly PDF version of this checklist.

What to Do Now for the Total Solar Eclipse

  • Select the best location and route for viewing the eclipse based on accessibility, weather forecast, and the time of day the path of totality will pass through the area. Many prime viewing spots require tickets or have a capacity cap in place for the day, so do your homework.
  • Select an alternate location and route. 64,000 tourists are expected to visit the mountains for the eclipse.
  • Book lodging close to your primary viewing location. Hotel rooms, campsites, and cabins are going fast!
  • Build your total solar eclipse viewing kit. (See the bottom of this post for a checklist.)
  • Purchase your eclipse viewing glasses at Diamond Brand Outdoors. We’ve ordered a lot, but they’re going fast!
  • Use an app, website, or book to find out which bright stars and planets you can expect to see during the totality, impressing your friends and kids!

What to Do the Week of the Total Solar Eclipse

  • Test all of your equipment by doing a “dry run.” Nothing’s worse than having a faulty camera when the big event gets underway!
  • Pack your total solar eclipse viewing kit and camping kit.
  • Review the eclipse timing and weather forecasts for your primary and alternate viewing locations.

What to Do the Day of the Total Solar Eclipse

  • Check the weather forecast.
  • Leave early for your viewing location.
  • Claim your spot by setting up chairs and viewing equipment, but remember to be a good neighbor so others may enjoy the experience.
  • Test your equipment.
  • Enjoy the day with your friends and family. The time of totality will be brief, but the experience leading up and following the first total solar eclipse in western North Carolina since 1506 will lead to storied memories for years to come.

Total Solar Eclipse Viewing Kit Checklist

  • WNC + NATIONAL PARK MAPS: Cell towers will likely be overloaded, so don’t rely on an app.
  • ECLIPSE VIEWING GLASSES: You must have these for direct solar viewing.
  • HAT: To protect your head from the sun while you wait for the main event.
  • SUNGLASSES: NOT to look at the sun, but to cut down on the glare when you’re looking everywhere else.
  • PORTABLE PHONE CHARGER: Make sure you’ll be able to document the day through photos and videos.
  • CAMPING CHAIRS + TABLES: Get yourself a chance to stake your claim to watch and rest after the excitement!
  • BLANKETS: No matter where you’re watching, blankets keep things cleaner. Bring more than you think you need.
  • COOLER: You’ll likely get to your viewing area hours before the eclipse. Drinks, lunch, and snacks are a must!
  • DRINKWARE + WATER BOTTLES: Insulated cups and tumblers keep your drinks cold (or hot), don’t sweat, and are reusable.
  • HEADLAMP OR FLASHLIGHT: Since you’ll be looking up, this is primarily for emergencies. Use the red setting instead of white.
  • COMPASS: There’s plenty of information online that will tell you exactly where to look as totality begins.
  • CAMERA: This is one of the times you may want a nicer camera than you’ll find on your phone.
  • CELL PHONE: Coverage may be too spotty for weather and GPS, but your clock and camera will still work.
  • WATER: Always stay hydrated, whether the sun is shining or not.
  • SUNSCREEN: Always a good idea when you’ll be outside for any period of time.
  • INSECT REPELLENT: Another good idea anytime you’re heading into the outdoors.
  • OUTDOOR GAMES: Help pass the time and enjoy some relaxation with friends and family.
  • HAMMOCK: If you’ve got space to set up an ENO hammock or WindPouch, laying down is a great way to watch.
  • ELECTRICAL TAPE: Some folks don’t know how to turn off their camera’s flash. Be prepared to help them out.
  • CAMPING KIT (OPTIONAL): Traveling the day before or staying overnight after the eclipse helps avoid traffic and can be fun!
    • TENT
    • SLEEPING BAG FOR EACH CAMPER
    • LANTERN
    • SLEEPING PAD FOR EACH CAMPER
    • PILLOWS
    • TARPS
    • STOVE + FUEL
    • MATCHES
    • FRYING PAN + POT
    • CUTTING BOARD + KNIFE
    • SPONGE, SOAP, + BIN FOR WASHING DISHES
    • PAPER TOWELS
    • FIREWOOD (IF ALLOWED)
    • ROASTING STICKS FOR S’MORES + HOT DOGS
    • BEAR KEG
    • ICE
    • TRASH BAGS
    • FIRST AID KIT
    • CORKSCREW

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

/by

What You Need to Know About August’s Total Solar Eclipse

Are you ready for the Great American Total Solar Eclipse? It’s rapidly approaching, hitting us full force this coming August 21. Millions of people will be traveling to see the moon cover the sun and all the crazy extras that go along with the phenomenon. The last total solar eclipse crossed the mainland states in 1979, so make sure you get out to see this one, because the next one won’t happen until 2024. Here’s our unofficial guide to everything you need to know.

The Solar Science

The paths of 21st Century North American eclipses.  Michael Zeiler, www.GreatAmericanEclipse.com

It sounds like sci-fi, right? “OK guys, one day in the future, the moon is going to completely blot out the sun. Day will turn into night! Stars will shine brighter than the sun! It’s going to be epic!”

So, sci-fi guy is right, but there’s some real science behind the eclipse. This is the time, celestially, when the Earth, moon, and sun are all in line together. The moon will rotate on its path around Earth and pass directly through the middle of our visual path to the sun. In this short period of time, the moon will completely cover the sun—at which point you will look up to see quite the spectacle. Day will have turned into twilight and the sun’s wispy atmosphere will extend around the moon. You’ll see stars in the daytime and colors streaking across the sky. That’s at full coverage. At partial coverage, the sky won’t darken much—but you will be able to get a clearer view of Venus.

Geometry plays an important role in this solar eclipse, too. The moon is about 239 thousand miles away from us here on Earth—which is oddly exactly the right distance to make it look the same size as the (much bigger and much farther away) sun, allowing it to completely cover the light during the eclipse.

Where to Catch a Glimpse

Gearing up to a seriously special celestial event—a time, when the Earth, moon, and sun are all in line together.  Thomas Lok

If you’re in the US, you’re lucky—you’ll be able to see anywhere from a total eclipse to 48 percent coverage. The path of totality (where you can see the sun completely covered by the moon) is a much smaller range, though. It goes through only 12 states: Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. And the totality viewing in those states is limited to very specific 70-mile-wide sections.

NASA has put together a selection of interactive maps allowing you to zoom in on the exact spot you should head to if you want to see the whole shebang. Totality only lasts 2 minutes and 40 seconds at the max with this eclipse, and it’s predicted to be a massive traffic day full of people trying to get to that center line. So go early.

This chart, compiled by Space.com and NASA, outlines totality times in the best cities to see the eclipse, all in local time:

Totality times for each state in the best cities to see the eclipse. Data from NASA

Where to watch in North Carolina

Asheville’s got plenty of viewing parties planned for spots like Pack Square Park and UNC Asheville, but you’ll only get to see the path of totality if you head further west. Tickets for viewing at Clingmans Dome have already sold out and certain areas of Great Smoky Mountains National Park will be closed on August 21. However, if you can turn the once-in-a-lifetime viewing into a weekend, some campsites and hotel rooms may still be available near Sylva, Brevard, Cherokee, or Murphy. Romantic Asheville has rounded up a comprehensive list of spots to watch the eclipse in the mountains.

2017 solar eclipse racing over Great Smoky Mountains National Park from Michael Zeiler on Vimeo.

Tips to See the Best Show

August 21, 2017 is predicted to be one of the most highly-trafficked days ever, as millions of people will be traveling to the path of totality.  NASA HQ PHOTO

Two words: eye protection. This is the most important tip we can give you for viewing the eclipse. Don’t go thinking you’re going to look straight at the sun—even if it’s partially obscured by the moon—and come away unscathed. You could burn your retinas to tiny eyeball-shaped ash piles. You could go partially blind. In short: you’ll damage the heck out of your peepers.

The sad reality is that the majority of the country will be out of the narrow path of totality the eclipse takes. It’s only 70 miles wide stretching from Oregon to South Carolina. The only people who can look at the full eclipse unencumbered by equipment are those in the path of totality. Most of us won’t see the sun completely covered by the moon, so we’ll definitely need eye protection of some sort. According to NASA, that means “special-purpose solar filters” like eclipse glasses. Sunglasses or homemade filters won’t work. Apparently only four companies make the glasses to international standards: Rainbow Symphony, American Paper Optics, Thousand Oaks Optical, and TSE 17.

Another option? Pinhole projectors. But you won’t be able to look directly at the sun—it’s an indirect method of viewing. Sky and Telescope suggests this process: “Poke a small hole in an index card with a pencil point, face it toward the Sun, and hold a second card three or four feet behind it in its shadow. The hole will project a small image of the Sun’s disk onto the lower card. This image will go through all the phases of the eclipse, just as the real Sun does.”

Of course, if you’re super fancy you can just use a properly filtered telescope.

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Originally written by RootsRated.

/by

5 One-of-a-Kind Cabins, Cottages, and Yurts Near Asheville

Chilly days, chillier nights and rain showers may deter you from planning a camping trip, but there’s no reason to stay at home. Whether you’re visiting from out of town or a local just looking to change up the scenery, a host of cozy cabins, charming cottages, and even yurts can help you create that perfect weekend in the wilderness. Spend the night in a restored barn on a working farm, in a rustic cabin on a private island, or relaxing on the side of a mountain with a view of the city spread out below you. Here are five places to get away from it all.

1. East Fork Farm Cottages

The Mill House is a small and creative two-story cabin complete with a working waterwheel.
The Mill House is a small and creative two-story cabin complete with a working waterwheel.
Courtesy of East Fork Farm Cottages

Imagine yourself rising early, surrounded by farmland, mist rising off the pastures as you sip a cup of hot coffee out on the deck. As the sky brightens, you consider the day that lies ahead of you: Maybe you’ll take a hike up to nearby Max Patch, a rolling meadow that many consider to be the most beautiful section in all the 2,168 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Or perhaps you’ll find yourself navigating the bouncy, Class III rapids on Section 9 of the French Broad River. In the evening, you will return to your cabin for a soak the fragrant, Japanese-style cedar hot tub and an excellent night’s sleep, submerged in the quiet of the countryside.

This will be your experience when you steal away to East Fork Farm for a couple days to unwind and recharge. The farm is family-owned and fully operational, located in the small mountain town of Marshall, NC, 25 miles outside of Asheville. There are three cottages on the premises: Meadow Branch is a quaint, cedar-shake getaway that is artfully furnished, with a view of the entire farm visible from the patio. The East Fork, cozy but modern, is an elegantly refurbished utility barn surrounded on three sides by meadows and grazing sheep. The uniquely charming Mill House is brand new addition to the farm, a small and creative two-story cabin complete with a working waterwheel and spacious patio.

As if pastoral serenity and quick access to wilderness isn’t enough, your stay at East Fork Farm will include complimentary farm products:  fresh eggs, stone-ground cornmeal, Highlander Farm jelly, Wild Mountain Apiaries honey, 4 ounces of Biltmore Coffee Traders coffee, and locally made soap.

2. Riverside Escapes

Enjoy an escape on the only private island on the French Broad River.
Enjoy an escape on the only private island on the French Broad River.
Courtesy of Riverside Escapes

Book a stay at the Riverside Escapes  and you won’t just be reserving a private cabin for the weekend, you’ll be reserving your own island. The rustic Americana Cabin is situated on the only privately owned island on the French Broad River , accessible by a 100-foot swinging bridge. Return to the simple delights in life by stepping off the river into an outdoor shower, cooking dinner over an open fire, and falling asleep inside a clean cabin, warmed by the glow of a wood stove.

If you’re looking for something a bit more plush, a brand-new cabin directly overlooking the river features the Riverview Retreat on the first floor and Treetop Suite on the second. Each luxe hideout features private hot tubs, a fully stocked kitchen, and a washer/dryer, nestled in 3 acres of wooded property.

The cabins are located in Alexander, just 20 minutes outside downtown Asheville. This would be the ideal getaway for anyone seeking to spend a calming weekend on the water, SUPing, fishing, floating, or just kicking back with a beer on the front porch.

3. The Pines Cottages

The Pines Cottages are close to fun nightlife, but still isolated for privacy.
The Pines Cottages are close to fun nightlife, but still isolated for privacy.
Courtesy of The Pines Cottages

Stand in Pack Square on a Friday night and you’ll find yourself encompassed by small city revelry: The line from the French Broad Chocolate Company winds around the block, a string band plays boisterous bluegrass on the street corner, and tourists, college kids, artists, river guides and young professionals dart between breweries and file into the Orange Peel to catch a show.

It’s hard to believe that from such a crowded and lively vantage point, a place as quiet and tranquil as The Pines Cottages lies only six miles away. These vintage cabins and studio cottages sit on 4.5 acres of enormous pines and tidy gardens, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Asheville, but close enough to take full advantage of the city’s nightlife and renowned culinary and craft-beer scene. Six of cottages feature wood burning fireplaces, and all of them are pet friendly.

Board games are available for checkout, as are guide books if you’re hoping to venture into the Blue Ridge Mountains and hop on some of the country’s most beautiful hiking trails.

4. Bittersweet Cottage and Suite

This expertly designed cottage and suite on Elk Mountain is a great home base for exploring Asheville.
This expertly designed cottage and suite on Elk Mountain is a great home base for exploring Asheville.
Courtesy of Bittersweet Cottage and Suite

Perched on the slopes of Elk Mountain, the Bittersweet Cottage and Suite make for an ideal romantic retreat. The cottage features a cozy and inviting interior, with warm light, custom wood paneling and a glass block bath. The suite was designed with an Asian influence, soothing and clean with a fully stocked luxury kitchen. This modern mountain oasis is truly out of the ordinary. Both cottage and suite are impeccably decorated and offer an unparalleled view of city lights sparkling between rolling Appalachian peaks.

In fact, such a dazzling view might inspire you to spend the whole weekend wandering through town, immersing yourself in Asheville’s abundance of art and culture.  If that’s the case, check out these in-town adventures. Work up an appetite and get a taste of the outdoor activities for which Asheville is famous, without even leaving the city limits.

5. Wildwater Yurt Village at Nantahala

Luxurious simplicity inside the Yurt.
Luxurious simplicity inside the Yurt.
Courtesy of the Nantahala Yurt Village

Within the steep canyon walls of the Nantahala Gorge lie some of the most wild and pristine wilderness in the south. Whether you’re riding the ribbony trails at Tsali , zip-lining through the canopy or whitewater rafting with the Nantahala Outdoor Center , you will never exhaust the opportunities for exploration and adventure found here.

For an experience that’s off the beaten path—but directly on the hiking trails—reserve one of the eight coveted Yurts at Wildwater Village. These elegant domed structures of insulated canvas and exposed framing are where rugged meets boutique, creating a unique experience that will appeal to campers and  hotel aficionados alike. The yurts come complete with a queen bed, folding double futon, mini fridge, ceiling fan and space heater. Communal charcoal grills and a separate bathhouse with four private bathrooms (including private showers and sinks) are just down the path.

The Nantahala Yurts sit on the banks of two small ponds and above Lake Fontana.
The Nantahala Yurts sit on the banks of two small ponds and above Lake Fontana.
Courtesy of the Nantahala Yurt Village

The Yurt Village is perched above Lake Fontana on 22 acres of mountain wilderness. Hiking trails wind from the property into the Nantahala Forest, a robust half a million acres of hardwoods studded with waterfalls and scenic overlooks atop exposed cliffs. With all that wildness at your fingertips, coupled with the plush comforts of the yurts, you may find yourself booking next year’s retreat to the Nantahala before you even pack up.

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Originally written by RootsRated.

Featured image provided by Courtesy of East Fork Farm

/by

48 Hours of Adventure: The Ultimate Weekend Getaway in Jackson County

Filled with sylvan streams winding through vast swathes of contiguous wilderness and crowned by the cloud-swaddled peaks of the southern Appalachians, Jackson County, North Carolina, is awash with natural wonders. Beyond the stunning backdrop, the mountain-nestled county is also peppered with inviting towns loaded with bountiful farmers markets, inventive craft breweries, farm-to-fork eateries, and boutiques showcasing locally produced artisanal crafts. Adventures are abundant in Jackson County, but here’s a shortlist of recommendations for an idyllic weekend escape.

Saturday

Photo by Nick Breedlove

Get a caffeine-injected start to your Jackson County adventure with locally roasted coffee and a portable bite from the Sylva Convenient Market and General Store in downtown Sylva. Stretch your legs walking the town’s main drag, lined with cafes, handicraft-loaded boutiques, and punctuated with rarities like the eclectic In Your Ear Music Emporium, an independent record store. The Dixie Mae Vintage Market is loaded with two-floors worth of singular antiques, and you’ll enjoy tasty treats from the cozy Baxley’s Chocolates.

Photo by Nick Breedlove

If Sylva has only whet your appetite for artsy wares, head two-miles down the road to Dillsboro, a hub for local artisans and host of the annual Western North Carolina Pottery Festival. Dillsboro’s condensed downtown is loaded with functioning studios—like Treehouse Pottery, Rabbit Creek Pottery, and Riverwood Pottery—each showcasing and selling everything from stoneware to ceramics inlaid with horse hair.

Photo by Margaret Hester

If you end up lingering until lunchtime, grab a bite in Sylva at Lulu’s on Main, serving sophisticated cuisine in down-to-earth digs. When you are ready to trade town for trail, head 45-minutes south to Cashiers. Get a taste for the lake-studded town at the Cashiers Farmers Market and pick up a picnic for the trail. Next, head just outside town to Panthertown Valley, a rugged, mountain-cradled slice of the Nantahala National Forest adorned with tannin-tinged streams and tumbling waterfalls. Hikers are enveloped by wilderness merely steps from the trailhead in Panthertown Valley, lending even brief day-hikes the feel of multi-day backcountry outings.

Although the namesake panthers no longer prowl the fern-draped valley, Cooper’s hawks cruise the canopy, and bobcats, black bears, and coyotes wander the rhododendron-fringed trails. Decipher the extensive network of backcountry trails with the definitive map, Bruce Kornegay’s “A Guide’s Guide to Panthertown,” available at the Blackrock Outdoor Company in Sylva, or with information from the Friends of Panthertown Valley.

Photo by Mark Haskett

If hiking a sometimes maze-like wilderness seems a little too ambitious, head for Whitewater Falls, which is also just outside Cashiers in the Nantahala National Forest. You will hear the thundering rush of water before even embarking on the brief trail to the viewing platform for the 811-foot falls. Stairs lead to a lower viewpoint, offering unobstructed vistas of the silvery flumes and providing access to the Foothills Trail, an option for tacking more trail time on to your waterfall visit.

Innovation Brewery.
Innovation Brewery.
Photo by Jackson County Tourism

In the evening, head back to Sylva to sample the artful ales available at the town’s trio of craft breweries. Choose from the Bavarian-inspired beers at the Heinzelmännchen Brewery, serving brews like the Ancient Days Honey Blonde or the subtle toffee-flavored Middle World Brown. Try the Sneak E Squirrel, the newest arrival to Sylva’s brewing scene, pouring flavorful pints like Cherry Vanilla Stout and Prison Shank, a quintessential English ale. The brewery also features a menu with everything from pork belly BLTs to bison burgers to the Toasted Fat Elvis, a culinary tribute to the King packed with peanut butter, bananas, and bacon. Peruse the lengthy tap list at Innovation Brewing, which is loaded with mainstays like the Spaceman Pale Ale and the Hoppy Camper IPA. You’ll also find seasonals like Apple Butter Brown, the Cucumber Mint Saison, or the Beet and Basil Pale Ale. After grabbing a beer, head outside to Innovation Brewing’s resident food truck, Cosmic Carryout.

Sunday

Photo by Nick Breedlove

Ease into Sunday at Sylva’s City Light’s Cafe. The vegetarian-friendly eatery serves everything from chevre-filled crepes to gluten-free pastries. Post breakfast, the cafe also has nearly a dozen local beers on tap and serves an array of organic, North Carolina wines. Best of all, you can bring your pooch to dine, and the joint celebrates four-legged patrons at monthly Yappy Hours. After breakfast, peruse the attached City Lights Bookstore, lorded over by a pair of resident cats. Astoundingly, City Lights is merely one of three independent bookstores in town—Sylva’s Main Street also boasts the Friends of the Library Used Bookstore and Harry Alter Books, specializing in rarities and out-of-print texts.

Photo by Nick Breedlove

Once adequately caffeinated, head for the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. A lofty, peak-laden stretch of the 469-mile roadway ribbons through Jackson County, serving as a portal to an abundance of high-country trails. Begin with the more grueling hike by heading south on the parkway to the Waterrock Knob Visitor Center, which is just after milepost 450. The hike from the windswept visitor center to Waterrock Knob’s 6,292-foot pinnacle is short—about a mile and a half round trip—but consists of a craggy climb along a series of tightly coiled switchbacks. Fortunately, climbers are consistently treated to stunning views of Maggie Valley and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, appearing like a sea of rippling, blue-tinged cordilleras silhouetted against the horizon.

Photo by Nick Breedlove

Next, drive north to Richland Balsam (milepost 431), just after the marker for the highest point on the motorway, at 6,053-feet. Hike the 1.5-mile loop trail to Richland Balsam’s 6,410-foot summit through a cloud-shrouded, spruce-fir forest more reminiscent of landscapes of northern New England. Check the trail for animal tracks—the thoroughfare is by far the easiest path through the dense, moss-cloaked evergreen forest, and more than just hikers take advantage of the summit route.

Tired of hiking but still craving more time outdoors? Jackson County is dubbed North Carolina’s Trout Capital, and it’s ideal for perhaps the most meditative of outdoor pursuits—fly fishing. The county is sprinkled with stops along the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail, the first and only of its kind in the country. The largest rainbow trout caught in North Carolina to date, weighing in at just over 20 pounds, was hauled out of Jackson County’s Horsepasture River.

Photo by Jackson County Tourism

In the evening, head back to downtown Sylva for dinner at the Caribbean-inspired Guadalupe Café. The eatery serves organic, locally sourced food, and dishes up more than just island- inspired plates, including bison burgers, mango pork tacos, and, of course, trout cakes.

As for where to stay in Jackson County, you’ve got plenty of choices: Full-service resorts, cozy cabins, historic inns, and charming bed & breakfasts are all available in the area.

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Originally written by RootsRated.

Featured image provided by Nick Breedlove

/by

Backpacking North Carolina’s Linville Gorge Loop

It was our last day in the Linville Gorge. We were supposed to be back to our car by 3:00 p.m., but by 4:00 p.m. we were still three miles away. We had stopped to eat lunch when a couple of hikers came up from a spur trail and asked us if they were headed towards the daffodil field. We laughingly admitted we weren’t even sure if we were going the right way. One of the hikers chuckled in return and told us one of the most accurate descriptions of the gorge I have ever heard.

“They say every mile in the gorge feels like two.”

He couldn’t have said it better, the gorge is place that no one can truly prepare for. Even the locals struggle going up the thousand foot climbs without switchbacks. And there’s hardly any mention anywhere online about the lack of water on top of the gorge rim. Many groups have spent their first night dehydrated on the chimney tops. The truth is, all of these difficulties seem like nothing once you’ve entered the Linville Gorge. Its scenery is more dramatic and luring than anywhere around. The gorge boasts of epic views, old growth forests, and a cascading mountain river.

The fire-scarred landscape of the Linville Gorge rim.
The fire-scarred landscape of the Linville Gorge rim.
Photo by Graham Hodge

The Linville Gorge is rich in history, but has not been a designated recreation area until recently. The gorge was named after the brothers John and William Linville, both famous explorers of the North Carolina wilderness, who had a fatal encounter with the native Cherokee tribe during the first expedition into the gorge. The Cherokees believed it was a sacred and mystic place and continued to inhabit the gorge for many years after their encounter with the brothers. The steep ridges of the gorge prevented logging from reaching the inner reaches of the gorge, which explains why the Linville Gorge Wilderness is one of the few remaining old growth forests in the Southeast. The gorge was made a preserved wilderness area as a part of the 1952 Wilderness Act and is now managed by the Grandfather Ranger District of the United States Forest Service.

We began our three day backpacking trip at the Wolf Pit Road Trailhead. This is the most popular trailhead to start the 22-mile loop, although there are other access points. The trail immediately begins to climb up a series of switchbacks that lead to the top of Shortoff Mountain. The view from here is spectacular and offers a great glimpse into the type of adventure and scenery you can expect for the next couple of days. Just after reaching the top of Shortoff there is a small, piped seasonal spring. Be sure to fill up your water containers to capacity here! There is no water until after descending the chimney tops and many spend their first night dehydrated because of this.

The top of Shortoff Mountain has experienced many forest fires over the past few years. This has created a mile of the trail where you will feel like you’re in another world. Enjoy your time during this portion of the trail. The views are great and hiking is easy. Near the end of Shortoff you will descend into a gap that connects with a trail that begins the first epic climb to the chimney tops. This portion of the trail has no switchbacks and consists of approximately one mile of steep hiking. The climb is difficult, but the 360 degree views along the top of the chimney tops are hard to beat. Choose your favorite campsite from the many designated sites along the ridge line of the the chimney tops. Also, be aware of where you step. There are many peregrine falcon nests which cause rock climbing closures periodically throughout the year.

First night's camp.
First night’s camp.
Photo by Graham Hodge

After waking up to an epic sunrise, you will finish a traverse of the chimney tops and eventually come across the parking lot for Table Rock. You may choose to summit Table Rock if you’d like, but I would highly recommend skirting the base and moving on if you are planning on finishing the loop in three days. After passing Table Rock you will descend into the gorge via the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Once in the gorge, you can refill your water as needed. There will be plenty of water from this point on.

Keep an eye out and cut down into the Linville Gorge Trail by hopping on the Spence Ridge Trail. This will take you down to the river crossing. The bridge has been washed out, but there is rope system to get your bags across the river dryly while you swim. If the river is low, then you may be able to cross by rock hopping like we did.

Ropes and river crossings.
Ropes and river crossings.
Photo by Graham Hodge

After crossing the river, follow the Linville Gorge Trail for a long time. You’ll go through sections where the trail is clean and easy as well as rough sections with rock gardens and blown down trees. You may choose to camp along the river after you’ve put in your fair share of miles for the day. The trail is littered with great campsites of all sizes right along the river.

Be prepared for a full day of hiking to end your trip. There is private property in the middle of the Linville Gorge Trail which creates a dead end. To avoid getting to this point and having to backtrack, take the Pinch-In Trail (there will be a sign) to the top of the ridge across the gorge from Shortoff. Once on the top of the ridge follow the road to the Pinnacle Rock Trailhead and follow the trail down to reconnect again with the Mountain To Sea Trail. This will take you all the way down to the river for an epic and typically cold crossing. Once crossing the river, rest up for the steep hike with a 1,800 foot elevation gain with, again, no switchbacks. This will take you all the way back to the intersection that leads to the Wolf Pit Road parking lot. Rejoice in the grueling beauty of the landscape and your recent accomplishment of successfully looping the Linville Gorge.

Camp vibes in the Linville Gorge.
Camp vibes in the Linville Gorge.
Photo by Graham Hodge

The Linville Gorge Loop is a serious undertaking for a 3 day backpacking trip. If you are a not an avid backpacker, the loop should be extended to a 4 day trip for maximum enjoyment. A physical map of the area can be found at the Grandfather Ranger District Station. A free permit is required on the weekend from May through October and groups are limited to 10 people. Many people do the loop counter clockwise, just make sure you have enough water for the first 7 miles.

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Originally written by RootsRated.

Featured image provided by Graham Hodge

/by

Best Spots for Camping Under the Stars: Backpacking Your Way Through Jackson County

Western North Carolina’s varied landscape is a veritable buffet for backpackers. Nestled at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, overlaid by the Plott Balsam and Great Balsam mountains, and loaded with strings of soaring 6,000-foot peaks (sixers) amid a massive expanses of forest—the trip options are almost endless. Jackson County’s diversity of trails provides something for backpacking enthusiasts of all stripes, from gear gurus to altitude-immune peak-seekers to cautious car campers striking out into the backcountry for the very first time. So load up the pack, seek out the starry-skied campsites of Jackson County, and spend some time exploring western North Carolina’s wildest spaces.

Pinnacle Park

Pinnacle Park Camping.
Pinnacle Park Camping.
Photo by Nick Breedlove

Just a few miles outside the town of Sylva, the 1,100-acre Pinnacle Park feels much further removed. Several trails ribbon through the recreation area, but the highlight of the leafy swath of wilderness is the namesake Pinnacle, a 4,820-foot rock promontory accessible after a 3.5-mile hike, offering celestial views of the towns of Sylva, Webster, and Cullowhee. The park also provides access to the 5,810-foot summit of Blackrock Mountain—a peak trail runners flock to Pinnacle Park to tackle every spring during the 7-mile Assault on BlackRock race.

Panthertown Valley

A stunningly varied tract of the Nantahala National Forest once so densely populated with cougars that the rugged expanse was named for the cats, Panthertown Valley is a welcome retreat for crowd-weary backpackers. The 6,300-acre recreation area has been dubbed the “Yosemite of the East,” and the landscape is loaded with natural marvels, including towering 4,000-foot peaks, thickly wooded groves of fern-blanketed forest, and secluded waterfalls pouring into tannin-tinted trout streams. There are 30 miles of official Forest Service designated trails threading the valley, with countless secondary paths and unofficial tracks splintering off the more well-established routes. The extensive trail network can become a leafy labyrinth, so pick up the definitive map to Panthertown Valley, A Guide’s Guide to Panthertown by Burt Kornegay, or find more information from the nonprofit Friends of Panthertown.

Art Loeb Trail

Jeff Bartlett
Jeff Bartlett

Easily accessible from the Blue Ridge Parkway, the 30-mile Art Loeb Trail ribbons through the Shining Rock Wilderness, showcasing spectacles like Cold Mountain, Shining Rock, and Stairs Mountain. In Jackson County, the trail traverses one of the loftiest peaks in the Great Balsam range, Black Balsam Knob (6,214 feet). It’s a trademark southern Appalachian bald, crowned with a sea of wind-rippled, wildflower-flecked meadows. For distance hikers, the Mountains-to-Sea and Art Loeb trails regularly intertwine, making it easy to link the two in order to craft a more extensive trek.

Foothills Trail

Meandering through North Carolina and upstate South Carolina for nearly 80 miles, the Foothills Trail offers a compact distance-hike—one that’s achievable in just a week on the trail. The multi-state route is also peppered with access points, making the Foothills Trail easily done in bite-sized portions. In Jackson County, the trail showcases the Nantahala National Forest and provides access to one of western North Carolina’s most stunning natural wonders—the 411-foot tall Whitewater Falls, the loftiest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains.

Mountains-to-Sea Trail

For backpackers craving a lengthy thru-hike, Jackson County serves up a lofty stretch of the state’s premier distance track: the Mountains to Sea Trail. It originates due west of the county at Clingmans Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While in Jackson County, the 1,150-mile trail parallels an elevated section of the Blue Ridge Parkway, encompassing some of the highest peaks in the Plott Balsam, including Waterrock Knob, and delves into remote expanses of the Nantahala National Forest. After deviating from the parkway, the trail also winds past some Jackson County’s inviting mountain towns, including Dillsboro and Sylva.

Ellicott Rock Wilderness

Photo by Alan Cressler

North Carolina’s portion of the Ellicott Wilderness—a massive 8,296-acre area also shared by Georgia and South Carolina—provides access a pristine stretch of the Chattooga River, which was designated as a “Wild and Scenic River” more than four decades ago. Located slightly east of the town of Cashiers, the Bad Creek Trail is an excellent option for a short and sweet backcountry overnight. You’ll find access to a smattering of riverine campsites along the Chattooga after a three-mile hike (with a more grueling return trip).

JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER

Originally written by RootsRated for Jackson County Tourism Development Authority.

Featured image provided by Stewart Photography

/by

Events

Nothing Found

Sorry, no posts matched your criteria