Rough Creek Watershed Hike

We will hike thru the Rough Creek watershed, it sits in an elongated bowl at the south end of the Newfound Mountain complex north of Canton. While most of the valley is forested, meadows on adjacent private lands allow for fantastic views near the park’s upper west side. And while some of the terrain is … Continue reading Rough Creek Watershed Hike

Rattlesnake Lodge Hike

Hike to a beautiful overlook view and the ruins of Rattlesnake Lodge, a 1900s summer estate, following the Mountains to Sea Trail. 4 MILES (ROUND TRIP)RELATIVELY MODERATEJust off the Blue Ridge Parkway north of Asheville Compared to other view-packed hikes along the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville, this hike to Rattlesnake Lodge lacks the breathtaking … Continue reading Rattlesnake Lodge Hike

Bracken Mountain Preserve Loop

Flowing river and streams alongside the trails and a series of small cascading waterfalls we’ll hike mountain coves supporting an abundance of biodiversity. Bountiful wildlife, including newts, rat snakes, coyotes, foxes, wild turkeys, and black bears (hint: look out for claw marks on the trees!) OPTIONAL: Brewery after hike Distance: 5.5 Elevation Gain: 950 Difficulty: … Continue reading Bracken Mountain Preserve Loop

Crabtree Falls

The scenic 2.5-mile loop trail to Crabtree Falls is moderate for some rocky terrain. Hikers should allow 1.5 to 2.5 hours for the entire hike. From the trailhead in the parking lot behind the campground entrance, the trail descends .9 mile to the falls through a hickory forest.. At the base of the trail is … Continue reading Crabtree Falls

The Cowee Bald Lookout Tower

THIS IS COMING SOON Thru Whittier: VIEW IN GOOGLE MAPS :: https://goo.gl/maps/rpzF9dDs1sZHmavU7 Thru Franklin: VIEW IN GOOGLE MAPS :: https://goo.gl/maps/y5Q9iXRpfiCJMRXJ9 The Cowee Bald lookout tower was originally built in 1933, making it one of the oldest remaining towers in the state. Considering its age, the tower is in surprisingly good condition. Cowee Bald is the … Continue reading The Cowee Bald Lookout Tower

Bradley Fork Trail

Welcome to the Bradley Fork Trail, it’s a 3.6 in and 3.6 out hike that keeps a gradual climb for its first 3 miles and gets a little steeper for the last 1 mile or so, as it twists around the Oconoluftee River. It’s considered an easy hike with only 680 feet of elevation gain. … Continue reading Bradley Fork Trail

Prospect Mountain Fireworks / Sunset Hike

Prospect Mountain is one of the most popular hikes in the Lake George Region at roughly three miles round trip. The trailhead is conveniently located in Lake George Village, and the summit features outstanding views of the lake and surrounding area. The Prospect Mountain trail begins on Smith Street in Lake George Village. From Exit … Continue reading Prospect Mountain Fireworks / Sunset Hike

Merry Falls

Take Dupont Road from Crab Creek. Dupont becomes Staton Road but keep going for about 5 miles until you come to a T in the road. Turn right on Cascade Lake Road where the pavement becomes gravel. In just over 2 miles you’ll begin to hear the waterfall. Approach carefully and hike to the bottom … Continue reading Merry Falls

Cascade Trail and Pine Tree Trail Loop

The snow and ice continues to linger on the trails, especially in shaded areas. They can be very slippery. Good boots and hiking poles suggested. Both trails will take us through a forested section that offers different hardwood species and rhododendron minus. The trail starts out up an old forest rd. to an open field. … Continue reading Cascade Trail and Pine Tree Trail Loop

Thompson River near Gorges State Park – Waterfall Day

Directions: From the intersection of US64 and NC281 south in the Lake Toxaway area, turn south on 281 and drive 3.6 miles (passing the entrance to Gorges State Park on the left) to Brewer Rd (SR1189) on the left. Take the left but don’t drive down Brewer Rd. Instead, park in the wide paved area … Continue reading Thompson River near Gorges State Park – Waterfall Day