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Hiking Big Creek Trail

Intro

When we take the time to relax beside the roaring waters of an Appalachian stream something incredible happens to our psyche. The roaring thunder of the water drowns out all the worries and doubts you carried with you from “real life” to the trailhead. The continual flow of a mountain stream ignites an innate sense of oneness with our surroundings and reminds us that time marches on.

What Makes It Great

On the Northern edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park a stream rambles in perpetuity from the Balsam covered mountains above until reaching its confluence with the mighty Pigeon River below. The headwaters of this stream are born from some of the highest peaks in the park: Mt. Sterling, Big Cataloochee and Mt. Guyot. As the tributary waters rush down these steep slopes they are purified by the lush flora of the Great Smokies before combining their efforts into what is known as Big Creek.

The Big Creek trail starts from the upper side of the parking lot and follows an old logging road, up a gentle grade, for 5 miles before reaching the Backcountry Campsite known to locals as Walnut Bottom. The majority of the trail parallels the creek and offers picturesque views of the water. Massive, moss-covered boulders are strewn about the creek creating a symphony of rapids to enjoy throughout your hike. A mile and a half into the trail lies the infamous “Midnight Hole.” A short scramble, down a noticeably tracked-out trail on your left, leads to the base of a pristine swimming hole surrounded by large boulders that were seemingly placed for your jumping enjoyment!

Another half mile up the trail, on your left, lies Mouse Creek Falls which plunges out of a steep ravine into Big Creek at a photo-worthy confluence. After Mouse Creek Falls the trail continues to follow the contour of the creek for Creek another 3 miles until you reach Walnut Bottoms and Backcountry Campsite #37.

Who is Going to Love It

If you are a fan of Appalachian swimming holes bring your bathing suit and enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool waters of Big Creek. The creek runs cold all year long so be prepared for a polar plunge type experience that will rejuvenate your body and soul. The Big Creek trailhead has a large picnic area with charcoal grills located beside the river. Plan ahead and enjoy a nice warm meal beside the creek after your day on the trail. The easy grade and playful nature of the Big Creek Trail make this area great for all ages and ability levels.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

To reach the Big Creek trailhead from Asheville head west on Interstate 40 to the North Carolina/Tennessee state line and take the Waterville exit (451) on your right. Take a left and cross over the Pigeon River via a bridge shared by the Appalachian Trail. Continue on this road until you reach a 4-way stop. Go straight through this intersection and follow the signs for the Big Creek trailhead. The Big Creek ranger station is located a quarter of a mile past this intersection on the right.

Stop here to get more information on the area and a detailed map for a requested $1 donation.

Continue up the road for 1 mile until you reach the parking lot for the Big Creek Campground/Trailhead. There are bathroom facilities and a gorgeous picnic area located beside the trailhead.

There is no fee for day use but a permit and small fee is required to stay at the backcountry site in Walnut Bottom.

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Featured image provided by Steven Reinhold

August 31, 2017/by RootsRated

Hikes

Hiking Waterrock Knob

Intro

On the crest of the Plott Balsam range, at an elevation of 6,292’, stands the majestic Waterrock Knob. The Blue Ridge Parkway climbs high up the sides of Waterrock Knob to within a few hundred feet of its’ summit. Where the Parkway crosses the ridgeline, on Waterrock’s southern shoulder, an easily accessible recreational area awaits your visit. The recreational area provides picnic tables, restrooms and a large grassy field to entertain yourself and your furry hiking companions. A short, yet steep, trail gains 400’ in elevation as it leads visitors to the incredible long-range views atop the summit. The easily accessible beauty of this mountain makes the destination a go-to spot on the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

What Makes It Great

The recreation area on Waterrock Knob is a mountain top playground with stunning views and easy access to ridge-line hiking atop the prominent Plott Balsam range. Around the turn of the 19th century a family of German emigrants made their way, with hunting dogs in tow, to the foot of these noble mountains. The family settled in the area and gained infamy through the hunting prowess of their “Plott hounds.” Today, the range bares the family’s name, and the Plott hound is North Carolina’s official state dog.

Looking westward from the recreation area, the eyes are rewarded with a panoramic view of the eastern side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Appalachian Trail follows the prominent ridge line on the western horizon. From here, on-lookers get a real life “trail profile” of the highly acclaimed 70 mile section of the AT which bisects the National Park. After letting your eyes gaze upon the National park look southward to see the beautiful Tuckaseegee River Valley and the sprawling Nantahala National Forest.

A half mile trail leads from the parking area to Waterrock’s summit. The first .2 miles of trail are paved and lead to a pedestrian overlook. After the overlook the trail becomes rocky and picturesque as it climbs the final .3 miles to the prized summit. Venture just past the actual summit to gain the mountain’s best available view from a perch atop a rock outcropping on the southern side of the peak.

Who is Going to Love It

Drive to access makes Waterrock Knob a great place to bring the family along for a mountain top experience. Bring your loved ones up for a quick hike and a picnic before enjoying a sunset. The short trail, which leads to the summit, provides hikers stunning views with minimal exertion. The area makes for a perfect place to introduce novices to the wonders of the outdoors. Fans of astrological events will find Waterrock Knob a dreamy place to observe the heavens with its high elevation and lack of ambient light.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

Head towards Waynesville NC, From Asheville on interstate 40. Take exit 27 (Maggie Valley) onto US-74. Follow this highway for 13 miles; past the town of Waynesville and to the top of Balsam Gap. A well-marked entrance to the Parkway will be on your right. Once on the Parkway, follow the signs towards the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Heading south on the parkway, and upwards on you altimeter, you will climb 3,000’ in 7 miles before reaching the Waterrock Knob Visitors Center on your right.

There are no fees required to visit Waterrock Knob.

The area is very dog friendly and the grassy area by the parking lot provides a great place to play with your pup while drinking in the beautiful scenery.

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Featured image provided by Patrick Mueller

August 31, 2017/by RootsRated

Hikes

10 Best Hikes in Asheville

You’re holed up at a coffee shop in downtown Asheville, sipping an espresso and pouring over a stack of trail guides. What would you like to do today—summit the East coast’s highest peak, or explore the East Coast’s deepest canyon? Scramble up the chutes and ladders of Grandfather Mountain, or weave gently through a verdant valley to reach a 70 foot waterfall? From this eclectic, craft-beer fueled city, nestled inside a lush basin in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the choice is yours. The peaks and forests of Western Carolina are brimming with a dazzling array of hiking adventures. Here, ten trails to cross off your Asheville hiking bucket list.

1. The Grandfather Trail

Black bears on Grandfather Mountain.
Kolin Toney

At times, the Grandfather Trail may feel more like an obstacle course than a hiking path. An intricate series of ladders, walkways, and steel cables zig-zag up and across the three separate peaks of Grandfather Mountain. This is an out-and-back trail, featuring 2.4 miles of hoisting, scrambling, and hand-over-hand climbing each direction. The route edges along the crest of the mountain, ducking through stunted spruce trees and skirting across exposed rock faces. The views from the first two peaks are astonishing, but the true reward lies at the top of the third and tallest summit, 5,946 ft Calloway Peak. Come and see why John Muir once described Grandfather Mountain as “the face of all heaven come to earth.”

2. Crabtree Falls

Crabtree Falls on a crisp fall day
Matthew Blouir

Even before coming in site of the waterfall, visitors to Crabtree Meadows are captivated by the lush carpet of wildflowers that bloom in spring and early summer. The forest floor is awash with over forty varieties of flowers, creating a bejeweled background for the popular Crabtree Falls Trail. This 2.4 mile loop begins with a series of switchbacks, gently descending to the base of its namesake falls: a wispy white curtain of water cascading over a 70 foot beehive of dark rock. The remaining 1.5 miles climb out of the enchanted forest through creeks and over split-log bridges.

3. Looking Glass Rock

Looking Glass Rock in autumn.
Jeff Gunn

Looking Glass Rock is a steep granite monolith, rising like a cargo ship from the rolling waves of Pisgah National Forest. The trail to the top, however, is surprisingly benign; while certainly a challenge, the constant switchbacks really take the edge of the steep gradient. The single trail etched into the mountainside is an out-and-back that makes for a journey totaling 6.4 miles. The summit of Looking Glass is an anomaly in the Blue Ridge: flat-topped, thickly forested, and not particularly tall. In fact, you’ll be gazing up at the mountains that engulf you, not down upon them. It is the exposure factor, the thrill of standing on the edge of a sheer vertical drop off, that make this one of the most thrilling and popular hikes in the region.

4. Old Mitchell Trail

Sunrise in Mt. Mitchell State Park.
Kolin Toney

The Old Mitchell Trail leads you to the summit of Mt. Mitchell, the highest peak East of the Mississippi River. From that lofty perch, surrounded by sky, immersed in chilled mountain air, allow yourself ample time to sit back and observe the world from one and a quarter miles above sea level. There are many options that lead to the top, and Old Mitchell is a classic: a four-mile loop with an out and back extension to the summit, and every step is above 6,000 feet! You’ll encounter the typical backcountry obstacles: a relentless climb gnarled with roots, rocks, and raspberry cane. However, to reach the top and be engulfed in a world of rippled Appalachian peaks, standing high above them all, is an experience that no hiker should miss.

5. Shining Rock

A sunset at Shining Rock Gap
Daniel Meacham

Perched high in the Great Balsam Range, the glittering quartz formations at the summit of Shining Rock make for a gorgeous and unusual spectacle. The bright swirling rock, emerging like frozen ocean waves from a dark coniferous forest and surrounded by soaring mountain views, creates a scene so lovely and dramatic it appears almost otherworldly. A section of the Art Loeb Trail, beginning at the Black Balsam parking area and meandering over a series of grassy balds is particularly exquisite way to reach “the crystalline cliffs.”

6. Waterrock Knob

Sunrise from the parking area of Waterrock Knob
Patrick Mueller

The picturesque summit of Waterrock Knob is a mere half mile from the parking area, but don’t even dream of writing it off as a roadside attraction. With breathtaking views and readily accessible ridge hiking unspooling in both directions, Watterrock is the perfect jumping off point for exploring the Plott Balsam Range. The wide, grassy meadow at the start of the summit hike may be the most dramatic locale for a family picnic on the entire length of the Blue Ridge Parkway. To claim the best view possible, sneak past the summit onto a rock outcropping on the Southern side of the peak, and behold the lush Tuckasegee River Valley and the Nantahala National Forest spread out below, the Great Smoky Mountains unfurling into the distance.

7. Craggy Gardens

The Craggy Pinnacle is an incredibly photogenic destination.
Sarath Kuchi

The Blue Ridge Parkway delivers you nearly to the pinnacle of Craggy Gardens, a heath bald of grey rock and pink-blooming rhododendron that soars 5,892 feet above sea level. At the summit, high-mountain grasses wave placidly in the foreground, set against panoramic mountain views. The trail is 1.4 miles round-trip and climbs only 252 feet in elevation: a huge payoff for minimal exertion. Cool tunnels of mountain laurel, twisted birch trees, and the occasional lookout make for an enjoyable journey as you meander to the top.

8. Hawksbill Mountain

Sunset from Hawksbill Mountain in the Linville Gorge.
JenjazzyGeek

The rocky summit of Hawksbill Mountain affords one of the most spectacular views in all of North Carolina. Two thousand feet below you, the Linville River threads through the bottom of the canyon, enveloped by nearly 12,000 acres of unadulterated wilderness. Grandfather Mountain, Table Rock, and Shortoff Mountain cut stately profiles against the peak-rippled horizon. This three-mile loop features a steep climb on the way up and a gentler, more gradual descent. The trail is accessible from Forest Service Road 1264 in Pisgah National Forest. Be aware that this road is closed from January-March.

9. Max Patch

The heavenly view from Max Patch.
Jim R Rogers

It’s no wonder that Max Patch Meadow is considered the most gorgeous section of the entire Appalachian Trail. The summit is rounded and soft with grass, surrounded by rolling woods and pastureland that gradually swell into mountains, eventually becoming the sharp peaks of the Black Mountain Range, Blue Ridge, and the Smokies in the distance. Although the summit is only a few minutes walk from the parking area, jump on the Appalachian Trail for a day trip to Lemon Gap—or hike all the way to Maine, for that matter!

10. Lookout Mountain

The summit of Lookout Mountain in autumn.
David Clarke

Just fifteen minutes east of Asheville, the Lookout Trail swoops up the side of Lookout Mountain in a short and punchy half mile of rock scrambling and wide stairs hacked into the hillside. The view from up top is more intimate than the typical Appalachian vista. A series of peaks affectionately known as The Seven Sisters of the Black Mountain Range feel so close, it’s as if you could reach out and touch them. To add an extra hour to your hike, and to escape the crowds that can converge on the small rocky summit, descend via the East Ridge Trail. This leads to the Blue Gap Trail, which will bring you back to the parking lot.

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Originally written by RootsRated.

Featured image provided by Barry Peters

August 31, 2017/by RootsRated

Things to Do Outside

10 Family-Friendly Summer Adventures Around Asheville

Summer days are long and should be filled from sunup to sundown with adventures and enriching outdoor activities. Now is the season for children to get their hands dirty, to chase frogs and climb trees, to hear songbirds and eat freshly picked berries. Asheville and the surrounding mountains are brimming with family-friendly summer adventures that will keep the little ones engaged, entertained, and asking for more. Here are our top 10 picks for an active excursions filled with rivers, sunshine, and delight.

1. Explore the Botanical Gardens

With free admission, plenty of parking, and stroller-friendly trails, Asheville Botanical Gardens may be the easiest and most convenient way to introduce your children to the beauty and diversity of Asheville’s great outdoors. The gardens include over 600 species of trees, wildflowers, grasses, shrubs, and sedges that are native to the Southern Appalachian mountains, including many that are rare and endangered. Guided tours are available or simply let the little ones splash in the creeks, dash through the meadows and explore the wildflower coves.

2. Go Star Gazing

Explore the night sky.
Christian Reusch

Here’s a compelling reason to keep the kids up past their bedtime. Plan a family stargazing session and prepare for one of the most memorable evenings of the summer. Getting started is easy and inexpensive.

3. Fly Through the Trees

Asheville Treetops Adventure Park offers kids off-the-ground thrills.
Loco Ropes

Climb, jump, swing, fly, and rappel through the woods at Asheville Treetops Adventure Park, a wild and elaborate outdoor jungle gym just five minutes outside of town. Where else could you kayak through the canopy or snowboard through the sky? The park features five separate adventures trails, each with their own set of obstacles that will appeal to a wide variety of ages, experiences and comfort levels. Kids are guaranteed to have a blast and discover the adventurous side of physical fitness, all the while being kept safe and secure with the latest “smart belay” technology. This will be one of the most fun and active afternoons you’ll have all summer — just don’t be surprised when they ask to go back the next day.

4. Meet the Butterflies

The Hop’n Blueberry Farm features a butterfly house that kids love.
Nick Page

The Hop’n Blueberry Farm is a water-and-sun powered sustainable family farm located outside of Black Mountain, North Carolina. The farm’s unique array of specialties range from medicinal herbs and hops to butterflies and blueberries. Take a hands-on tour of this innovative Blue Ridge establishment, which dates back for seven generations, and learn about sustainability, permaculture, and pollination. Children will love the butterfly house, where you can reach out and have a friendly monarch land on your hand. During the summer months, you can observe every stage of these beautiful creature’s lives: egg, caterpillar, chrysalis and adult. You can even purchase all things butterfly to bring home, including nets, butterfly grow kids and plant seeds.

5. Beat the Heat at Splashville

Splashville is a great way to beat the heat in downtown Asheville.
StacyVann

Splashville, a brand new interactive water fountain in Pack Square, is by far the coolest way to beat the heat in downtown Asheville. Children never seem to tire of chasing the jets of water that leap out of a tiled surface in this bustling and historical section of the city. Their shrieks and laughter mingles with live music of street performers and the chatter of shoppers, museum-goers and patrons dining outside of the many restaurants that surround the square. For an extra-special summer afternoon, treat the kids to an ice cream from nearby French Broad Chocolate Lounge.

6. Slide down Sliding Rock

Kids and adults will both be thrilled by this 60-foot natural waterslide.
William Whyte

Sliding Rock is a popular natural water park located 8 miles outside of Brevard, North Carolina. Children of all ages love the thrill of this exhilarating summer adventure, which includes lifeguard supervision during the hours of 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. between Memorial Day and Labor Day. After you slide down a 60 foot face of smooth, steep rock, fueled by 11,000 gallons of water, and land with a splash in a deep, icy pool at the bottom, you’ll only have one thought: “I have to do that again!”

7. Visit the WNC Nature Center

This 42-acre wildlife park has plenty of critters and interactive exhibits to enjoy.
anoldent

This 42-acre wildlife park and sanctuary is home to more than 60 native species of animals, including bobcats, black bear, red wolves and cougars. The Western North Carolina Nature Center provides a refuge for animals that have been imprinted, injured, orphaned, or otherwise rendered unable to survive on their own. Children of all ages will enjoy the interactive exhibits, such as touching reptiles, identifying songbirds, and observing the animals’ daily feeding. A highlight of your visit will be Otter Falls, a newly designed collection of pools and waterfalls chock-full of curious, playful river otters.

8. Have an Orchard Adventure

The Appalachian Heritage Center features live music, barn dances, mountain art and other cultural programs in addition to apple picking.
jchapiewsky

If you’re looking to take the family on a daytrip, The Orchard at Altapass should be on the top of your list. Located 55 miles north of Asheville off of the Blue Ridge Parkway, this 105 year old orchard has been converted into an Appalachian Heritage Center, and features live music, barn dances, mountain art and other cultural programs in addition to apple picking. Children can listen to stories of the land’s remarkable history as they enjoy an orchard wagon ride, play an old fashioned game of checkers in the kids corner, hike on the nature trails, or participate in any number of hands-on art programs. Take home a jar of local jam to remember your idyllic day in the countryside.

9. Go Whitewater Rafting

The Nantahala Outdoors Center is the longest continually operated outfitter on the French Broad River.
Donald Judge

The French Broad River — the third oldest river in the world — is the perfect place to introduce your children to the world of whitewater rafting. A river trip is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the outdoors on a hot summer day. The Nantahala Outdoors Center is the longest continually operated outfitter on the French Broad, and will provide your family with a safe and thrilling day of class II and III rapids while keeping you entertained with stories of the river’s dynamic history. The full-day trip even includes a plunge down a class VI drop, something your family will be telling stories about for years. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as kingfishers, bald eagles, and even black bears as you glide through a remote section of the Pisgah National Forest.

10. Go For a Hike

The Pink Beds Loop Hike is about 5 miles in total, mostly flat, and surrounded by water,
Bad Kleinkirchheim

Pink Beds Loop Hike is a great trail for sturdy young adventurers who already have a bit of experience on nature trails. The hike is 5 miles in total, but mostly flat and surrounded by water, including creeks to cross, streams to splash in, mountain bogs to explore and beaver dams to observe. A series of bridges, boardwalks and foot-logs keep the hike fun and dynamic, and an optional waterfall offers an additional reward. The abundance of pristine water and bogland creates a rich habitat for aquatic species and endangered plants, so keep a sharp eye out for critters.

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Originally written by RootsRated.

Featured image provided by Jessica Reeder

August 31, 2017/by RootsRated

Things to Do Outside

4 Waterfall Swimming Holes in Western North Carolina

Tucked deep inside the forests and gorges of Western North Carolina are hundreds of wild swimming holes and natural water parks. We’ve already brought you five of our favorites, but that was only a small taste of what the Blue Ridge has to offer. Here, we bring you a few more bucket list swimming destinations, only with a twist: four swimmable waterfalls! Imagine slicing through emerald water, the sweet relief of a cold plunge on a humid summer afternoon and the dip of the head beneath the falls. Pure Blue Ridge bliss.

1. Wintergreen Falls

Melina Coogan

As the name suggests, this swimming hole is sweet, green, and refreshing, hidden away into what feels like a forgotten corner of DuPont State Forest. I have never seen another visitor at these falls, which certainly makes for a unique experience in this super popular wilderness area. A lovely and densely wooded 3.2 mile (round trip) hike will lead you to this 15 foot cascade of water that tumbles over a sloping rock wall into a boulder-strewn pool. At the edge of the pool, the water rushes over another short drop on its way to the Little River.

It is only safe to swim at this pool when the water is at moderate to lower levels; when the waterfall is roaring, the current will be too swift. This is part of the reason that Wintergreen Falls has remained such a well kept secret. When the weather has stayed dry for a few weeks, take a dip, take in the scenery, and enjoy the solitude.

Park at the Guion Farm Trailhead on Sky Valley Road, Dupont National Forest.

2. Paradise Falls

The perfect mountain plunge.
Thomas Shahan

Until you see it with your own eyes, you may have trouble believing that this waterfall exists in North Carolina! This breathtaking swimming hole is located on Wolf Creek, tucked inside a beautiful gorge in the Nantahala National Forest. The waterfall, set back from the swimming hole in a narrow rocky chasm, resembles a slot canyon from the American Southwest. You can even shimmy up a rope to the second tier of rock, where the river is surrounded by sheer canyon walls.

For further adventure, explore the plunge pools and twisting rock of this unusual landscape by venturing downstream. As always, pay close attention to water levels, as tight canyons and heavy rain are not a friendly combination. Be aware that the dam at Wolf Creek Lake, located above Paradise Falls, is released often to keep water levels stable.

Park at the Wolf Creek Lake parking area off of NC 281. The trailhead is a quarter mile from the lot.

3. Hunt Fish Falls

Kolin Toney

One of the best swimming holes in all of North Carolina lies at the base of Hunt Fish Falls, deep within the stunning Grandfather Ranger District. It is accessible by a 3-mile out and back hike on the Mountains to Sea Trail. Laced with waterfalls and stream crossings, this hike will keep you on your toes as you hop and splash across the slick rocks and deep pools of the tremendous Gragg Prong. Hunt Fish Falls features a double drop into an enormous granite swimming hole of clear, jewel-toned water. It is a cold and refreshing reward after your moderate hike.

From the Wilson Creek Visitor Center at 7805 Brown Mountain Beach Rd., go 3.1 miles North to NC 90 and turn left. Go 1.8 miles and turn left on FS 464 (Pineola Rd.). Go about 3.1 miles uphill and the trailhead for trail #263 is on the right. Park there.

4. Turtleback Falls

Melina Coogan

In this natural water slide in the Nantahala National Forest, a curtain of water cascades down a smooth, sloping rock face and then plunges in free fall into the pool below. Also known as Umbrella Falls, this watery gem on the Horsepasture River provides a summertime thrill akin to Sliding Rock , but without the throngs of visitors or the long wait in line.

Besides swimming, sliding, and splashing, another reason to visit Turtleback Falls is its proximity to the 150 foot Rainbow Falls, one of the more spectacular sites in the Blue Ridge Mountains. However, this stunning landmark presents a real danger: restrict your swimming to the deep, protected pool beneath the friendly Turtleback Falls, and do not attempt to explore downstream. People have been swept over Rainbow Falls, and the ones that survive do not recommend the experience!

Park at the Rainbow Falls Trailhead parking area in Gorges State Park.

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Originally written by RootsRated.

Featured image provided by Teva

August 31, 2017/by RootsRated

Things to Do Outside

Top 5 Swimming Holes Near Asheville

The West coast may have hot springs and glacier-fed lakes, but here in the sultry Southeast we have our swimming holes — and we’re damn proud of them. Just listen to the Top 40 Country Countdown: people are always jumping into water, fishing in the holler, lying by the creek, and getting into trouble down by the river. A summer spent fully immersed in mountain-fed pools would be a fine summer indeed. Here are five of the coolest and coldest swimming holes within two hours of Asheville.

1. Sliding Rock

Jenn Deane

Just eight miles outside of Brevard, Sliding Rock is Mother Nature’s answer to the slip n’ slide. You will shoot sixty feet down a perfectly smooth rock face, fueled by more than 11,000 gallons of cascading water, into a pool that is six feet deep and shockingly cold. This could be the perfect conclusion to a long day of mountain biking in the Pisgah National Forest.

As one might expect, this natural water park is extremely popular during the scorching Appalachian summers. A lifeguard is on duty between Memorial Day and Labor day, between the hours of 10am-6pm. If big crowds and long lines are not your cup of sweet iced tea, then make sure to visit Sliding Rock outside of these hours.

There is a $2 charge during lifeguard hours; bathrooms and showers available onsite.

2. Skinny Dip Falls

Jenn Deane

This may come as a disappointment for some and a relief to others, but Skinny Dip Falls is not actually a clothing-optional swimming hole. This rugged and serene pool is located at the headwaters of the Big East Fork of the Pigeon River. Waterfalls, jumping-off rocks, a deep plunge pool, and shallow areas for wading make it a very popular swimming spot. If you’re determined to go au naturel , there are plenty of secluded spots to be found by exploring upstream.

Located just a half mile off the Blue Ridge Parkway on the Mountains-to-Sea-Trail, Skinny Dip Falls is a great place to cool down after hiking in nearby Graveyard Fields, Black Balsam Knob, or the Shining Rock Wilderness.

A blazed spur trailhead is located at Milepost 417 near the Looking Glass Rock Overlook.

3. Compression/Twisted Falls

Ry Glover

Some of the best cliff jumping in the Southeast can be found in Cherokee National Forest, not quite two hours outside of Asheville. A series of curving back roads and a steep, mile-long hike will lead you to the base of Compression Falls—also known as Twisted or Twisting Falls—a 40 foot curtain of cascading water on the beautiful Elk River.

Although this area is becoming increasingly popular, its remote setting and steep access trail keeps the massive summer crowds at bay. A wide pool beneath the falls is ideal for swimming and sun bathing, and there are plenty of cliffs and jumping rocks to keep you entertained. Thrill seekers can find quite the adrenaline rush (not to mention photo op) by sliding directly over the falls into the pool. (While lots of people do this, be aware that any time you willingly or unwillingly plunge off of a waterfall, you are risking bodily harm. There have been a few unfortunate incidents of severe injuries resulting from people going over the falls.)

Your best landmark is Elk Mills Store on Route 321 in Elk Mills, TN. Find a map here.

4. Hooker Falls

DuPont State Forest’s Hooker Falls
mrnoy9n

DuPont State Forest is a complete, all-in-one summertime destination. Hikers and mountain bikers will enjoy over one hundred miles of multi-use trails, including the sweet, soaring downhill of Ridgeline Trail, the exposed, sun-beaten Slick-Rock Trail, and the many spectacular waterfalls for which the forest is best known. No day of exploration is complete in this natural playground without taking a dip in the pool beneath Hooker Falls — the only waterfall in DuPont that is safe for swimming.

Explore the misty chasm behind the pounding veil of the fall, plunge off the rope swing, or float in the languid downstream waters. Because the pool is part of Cascade Lake, there is no current or downstream waterfalls to watch out for. Hooker Falls are a mere quarter mile from the parking lot, so bring a floaty, a cooler, and stay ’til your waterlogged.

Park in the Hooker Falls Parking Area. Port-a-johns available in the parking lot. The forest closes at 10pm.

5. Midnight Hole

Melina Coogan

The mountain-chilled, emerald water of Midnight Hole provides a refreshing oasis from the oppressive humidity of a Carolina Summer. This swimming hole, studded with jump rocks and fed by a small waterfall, is one of the many natural treasures you can find hidden away in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is located on Big Creek on the Carolina/Tennessee State line, after an easy 1.4 mile hike on the Big Creek Trail.

Park at the Big Creek Campground Parking Lot.

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Originally written by RootsRated.

Featured image provided by Melina Coogan

August 31, 2017/by RootsRated

Hikes

A Quick and Dirty Guide to the Best Hiking in Asheville

A voluminous network of trails spiderweb the mountains that surround Asheville. Soaring ridge lines, breathtaking views, and an epic array of terrain have long established this city as one of the hiking epicenters of the country.

The tireless efforts of such organization as The Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy and the Conservation Trust for North Carolina have not only protected the existing state parks and forests, but have been able to expand upon them by thousands of acres. From the heights of Mount Mitchell, the tallest peak on the East Coast, to the waterfall-studded trails of Dupont, to the sublime views of Max Patch, the outdoor opportunities in the Southern Appalachians are limitless.

Mount Mitchell

Robert Aberegg

Hikers, backpackers, trail runners, and naturalists flock to the summit of Mount Mitchell not only for the beauty of its surroundings, but also because it is the highest peak East of the Mississippi. Towering above the Black Mountains, the views from the top are truly exceptional.

One of the best ways to reach this acclaimed summit is to begin at Black Mountain Campground on the South Toe River in Burnsville. The steep, thickly wooded trail climbs 3,600 feet in just over 5.5 miles. The forest transforms as you quickly gain elevation, a welcome distraction to the grueling uphill hike. When you reach an alpine meadow abloom with wildflowers, allow yourself a well deserved break, as the rigorous pace of the trail soon picks up again. Even experienced hikers will find this a strenuous, all day excursion, but the the reward of heavenly views and pristine mountain air at the summit are worth the effort.

When you arrive, take a moment to pay tribute to Elisha Mitchell, for whom the mountain was named. This scientist, explorer, and professor was the first person to measure the mountain and declare it the highest in the East. She is buried on the summit.

Shining Rock

Daniel Meacham

Luminous with bright white quartzite rock, the summit of Shining Rock is a veritable gem of the Appalachians. In the Shining Rock Wilderness, high in the Great Balsam Mountains, miles of soaring ridgeline string together grassy balds laced with wildflowers and surrounded by ethereal views. Perched high in the rugged and remote wilderness, the quartzite garden atop the summit is a popular spot for star gazing.

Although a collection of trails leads to Shining Rock, the most picturesque of these includes a section of the Art Loeb Trail. Park at Black Balsam Knob Trailhead on Road 816 off of the Blue Ridge Parkway; head North and follow the white blazes of the Art Loeb Trail. You will reach the top of rounded summits, traverse five miles of spectacular ridgeline, and drop down mountain passes before reaching Shining Rock Gap. From there, scramble up a network of unmarked trails to the summit and watch the sunlight bounce off crystalline rock formations.

Dogs are more than welcome, and no fees or permits are required to hike or camp at Shining Rock. However, it is a designated Wilderness Area, so be aware of the specific guidelines that come along with that.

DuPont State Forest

Mark Stoffan

In 2012, DuPont State Forest gained notoriety as the hauntingly beautiful backdrop of the smash blockbuster hit The Hunger Games. Before then, this 10,000 acres of wooded wilderness was best known for its abundance of waterfalls. The Little River cascades through the forest, careening over Bridal Veil Falls, Triple Falls, High Falls, and more. Eighty miles of meandering, multi-use trails and five cold water mountain lakes makes DuPont a hiker’s oasis during the hot summer months.

For a mellow and scenic excursion, check out the 4.5 mile trail leading up to Cedar Rock. It awards sweeping views without much elevation gain. If you’re up for something a bit more strenuous, both routes to the top of Stone Mountain, the highest point in DuPont, are steep and demanding, but offer gorgeous and far reaching views (and a lot less people than the popular waterfall trails). At the end of the day, take a dip in the expansive, 99 acre Lake Julia.

Linville Gorge Wilderness

Weekend trip to Linville Gorge & Grandfather Mountain
Michael Sprague

The 12,000 acres of the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area are some of the most rugged and wild in all of North Carolina. Thirty nine hiking trails fan out from access points on the East and West Rims. Although the trails vary in length and intensity, with a few easier options on the rim, most carve their way steeply down to the bottom of the 1,400 foot canyon. Certain strenuous hikes will even cross the Linville River before marching sharply upwards again.

The beauty of this remote wilderness and its spectacular, long-reaching views cannot be overstated. Towering cliffs (often slung with ropes and dotted with rock climbers) and a thriving mixed hardwood forests surround you as you plunge deeper into the canyon. When the river is high, it is considered one of the best, albeit dangerous, class V whitewater kayaking runs in the Southeast. At lower volumes, you will have your pick of swimming holes, cliff jumping and small waterfalls to explore.

Backcountry camping is allowed in Linville Gorge. Between March 1st and October 31st, permits are required for weekends and holidays. You can find these at the Information Cabin on Kistler Memorial Highway or the Grandfather District ranger office in Marion.

Max Patch

Jarrod Doll

Roughly 20 minutes outside of Hot Springs, NC, Max Patch is one of the Southeast’s most acclaimed and spectacular viewpoints. This enormous, verdant meadow lies on the Appalachian Trail as it follows the crest along the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. The exquisite, panoramic skyline includes the Great Smoky Mountains, the Great Balsam range, the Roans, and the Black Mountains. In the evening, the sun bleeds purple fire over the rolling, expansive view of Tennessee to the West.

‘The Patch’ is a versatile destination enjoyed by day hikers, backpackers, Appalachian thru-hikers, and sightseers alike. Most of the 4,600 foot climb is accomplished by driving the long and winding access road; from the parking lot, the summit is just half a mile away. For a longer hike, explore the 2.4 mile loop which circumnavigate the meadow. If you prefer a bit more distance, just point towards Maine or Georgia on the Appalachian Trail and wander for as long as you please. For an easy adventure with a huge payoff, camp in the forest that runs alongside the bald. Be sure and wake up in time for sunrise.

Resources:

Organizations: Carolina Mountain Club , Conservation Trust for North Carolina , Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy
Retailers: Frugal Backpacker and Diamond Brand Outdoors

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Originally written by RootsRated.

Featured image provided by Melina Coogan

August 31, 2017/by RootsRated

Hikes

4 Epic All-Day Hikes Near Asheville

Despite your alarm going off before it’s even light out, despite the relentless climbs and knee-shaking descents that seem to go on forever, you know it’s worth it. That moment when the sheltering forest gives way to soaring summit views is even more dazzling when you’ve been earning it for hours. Even the flattened peanut butter sandwich from the bottom of your pack tastes like a million bucks. And then there’s that weightless feeling when, at the end of the day, you’re finally off of your feet and savoring a cold beer. These are just some of the rewards of tackling an epic, all-day hike.

Here, four of our favorite trails near Asheville that will keep you moving from sunup to sundown.

1. Appalachian Trail to Roan Mountain

Carver’s Gap wildflowers on Roan Mountain.
Keith Callahan

There are plenty of ways to access the five mile long massif of Roan Mountain, one of the most picturesque landscapes in the Southeast, but the longest and most challenging (and thus, most gratifying) of these is the Appalachian Trail. ‘The Roan’ is located on the North Carolina/Tennessee State line, and is famous for its massive gardens of Catawba Rhododendron that bloom a brilliant purple in the early summer. You’ll definitely want to choose the long way through this heavenly stretch of mountains.

Beginning at Carver’s Gap in Roan Mountain State Park, the AT heads northeast and ambles 14 miles over a number of breathtaking balds, including Jane’s Bald, Little Hump, and Yellow Mountain. The glorious, non-stop views from this rolling ridgeline will make the miles melt away. This marathon of a day hike (also a gorgeous and highly recommended overnight) ends at the trailhead on Highway 19E in Tennessee, so remember to leave a shuttle vehicle.

2. Old Butt Knob Trail to Shining Rock

Daniel Meacham

After you’ve thoroughly soaked in the views and are ready to turn for home, unwind with a more gentle and scenic descent on the Shining Creek Trail. The path begins with a steep plunge, but don’t despair; it soon mellows out and follows a creek for the next three miles. Take a breather at one of the many small trailside waterfalls, and treat your feet to a well-deserved soak.

The Old Butt Knob to Shining Creek linkup is an 8.5 mile loop. Park at the Big East Fork Trailhead off US 276. Begin on the Shining Creek Trail, and look for the northwest turnoff onto Old Butt Knob Trail approximately 1 mile in. Pay close attention, as trails are notoriously easy to miss within the Shining Rock Creek wilderness. The trail will be on your right and begin with an immediate steep climb.

3. Big East Fork

The Art Loeb section of the Big East Fork Trail
Patrick Mueller

If you’re in the mood for a lengthy hike, but you’re not necessarily jonesing for a punishing climb, this 11 mile loop on The Big East Fork of the Pigeon River will be just the ticket. This lovely and meandering route stitches together sections of the Shining Creek, Art Loeb, Graveyard Ridge, and Big East Fork trails for a dynamic day of rock hopping, river fording, and switchbacks. You will follow the pristine water of the Big East Fork as it tumbles through lush forest, and take in panoramic mountain views at Ivestor Gap. With deep pools for swimming and ample spots for picking wild blueberries and blackberries, the Big East Fork provides the perfect summer escape.

4. Black Mountain Campground to Mount Mitchell

The tallest peak east of the Mississippi.
David B. Gleason

Earn your bragging rights by summiting the highest peak on the east coast on the most direct and difficult trail. Who needs switchbacks when you can reach the towering, 6,682 foot summit of Mt. Mitchell by climbing straight up? Begin in the early morning at the Black Mountain Campground, and prepare for a sensational suffer-fest as you climb 3,600 feet in 5.5 miles. (You may also want to mentally prepare yourself for the trail runners who will dart by, speedy and light, as this trail is popular amongst the most gnarly and super fit athletes in the east.)

As you gain in elevation, the shifting landscape may distract you from the burning in your legs: you will come across new species of plants and animals every 500 feet. The summit of Mount Mitchell has an ecosystem that is otherwise only found in Canada, including Saw-whet owls and northern flying squirrels. From this mighty peak, the sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains are unparalleled. If you decide to plunge down on the same trail that you came up, you will have completed a truly grueling 11 mile day. But the views from the top (and the beer at the bottom) make it all worth it.

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Originally written by RootsRated.

Featured image provided by Rachel Titiriga

August 31, 2017/by RootsRated

Things to Do Outside

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.
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!
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.
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.
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?
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.
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

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.
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!
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.

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Originally written by RootsRated.

Featured image provided by flattop341

August 31, 2017/by RootsRated

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