Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Great Smoky Mountains with an outdoor adventure. Known as the “Land of the Noonday Sun” by the Cherokee nation, this parkland lies in the mountains and valleys of southwestern North Carolina. It encompasses more than 530,000 acres of glorious wilderness waiting to be explored. From a scenic train ride to whitewater rafting, here are four fun things to do in the Nantahala National Forest.
Go Pitch a Tent
There’s nothing quite like sleeping under the stars at one of America’s best national parks. Nantahala offers a variety of recreational area campsites and cabins. Whether you enjoy the solitude of a backcountry campsite or the convenience of indoor plumbing for you and your family, pitch a tent or park an RV at one of many assigned spots.
Well-appointed Balsam Lake Lodge is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and sits near a fishing pond. Why not rough-it this year at Hurricane Creek Horse and Primitive Campground? Located in the midst of a multitude of trails, this site is set up for the equestrian camper with stalls, a vault toilet, and fire rings. Hop on the designated horse trails directly from this camp.
Head Off the Beaten Path
With over 1,600 miles of trails, Nantahala offers plenty of opportunities for hikers, mountain bikers, and horse-back riders to get off the beaten path. For many outdoor enthusiasts, exploring a trail is the best way to enjoy the country’s national forests. This park touts a variety of opportunities awaiting you, from short, easy walks to multi-day trips. Start with the Big Fat Gap Trailhead or try a long-distance backpacking adventure as you’ll find on the Bartram Trail TR67.
Take a Train Ride
All aboard the Nantahala Gorge Excursion. Ride alongside the scenic Nantahala River on a real train. This four and a half hour journey departs from the Bryson City Depot and heads 44 miles to the Nantahala Gorge and back again. Cross Fontana Lake via the historic Fontana Trestle bridge on either a diesel or a steam locomotive. Arrive at the Nantahala Outdoor Center for a one-hour layover, then relax by the river or enjoy sightseeing. The trains are ready and waiting on the tracks now through the end of October.
Experience the Thrill of Whitewater Rafting
Embark on a fully-guided whitewater tour of the Nantahala River. Covering 8 miles in just over 3 hours, this beginner level rafting trip is a popular way to experience fun rapids under the watchful eye of an experienced professional. Have a great time with this trip’s delightful mountain scenery and crystal-clear waters of the spectacular Nantahala Gorge. Rafters over seven years of age will travel through bouncing waves, splash along fast currents, and soak up the beauty of the surrounding forest during the occasional calm spots.
Visitors to the Nantahala National Forest enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities. From a wilderness hike to a thrilling backpacking adventure, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Image via Flickr by Razvan Orendovici under use of CC BY 2.0
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