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National Forests In North Carolina

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National Forests In North Carolina

Things to Do in National Forests In North Carolina

National Forests In North Carolina, a national forest system spanning 1.25 million acres, encompasses diverse landscapes from rugged mountains to coastal plains across the state. This region is characterized by its varied terrain, including mile-high peaks, extensive trail systems, dense forests, and unique coastal wetlands. These features provide a setting for several sports like hiking, mountain biking, touring cycling, road cycling, and more. The four distinct forestsβ€”Croatan, Uwharrie, Pisgah, and Nantahalaβ€”each offer unique natural environments for outdoor pursuits.

Things to…

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Phone number

206

Routes

4.7

(95)

Average rating

3487

People visited

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Hiking in National Forests In North CarolinaSee all
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5.0

(4)

64

hikers

Erwin's View Trail

2.70km

00:46

70m

60m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy
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5.0

(1)

63

hikers

2.24km

00:57

100m

150m

Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

Moderate
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35

hikers

7.07km

03:21

280m

280m

Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

Hard
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1.0

(2)

41

hikers

8.88km

03:42

10m

1,090m

Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

Hard
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88.2km

06:36

1,680m

2,760m

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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8

riders

32.1km

02:06

470m

470m

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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4

riders

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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5.0

(4)

146

riders

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Moderate
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127

riders

Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard
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5.0

(1)

101

riders

33.1km

03:24

810m

810m

Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard
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5.0

(3)

57

riders

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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26

riders

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Hard
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5

riders

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Hard
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9

riders

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate
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Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate
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Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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Hard run. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

Hard
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5.0

(1)

7

runners

6.38km

00:56

90m

90m

Hard run. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

Hard
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5

runners

10.9km

01:43

290m

290m

Hard run. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

Hard
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Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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12

riders

Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Hard
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Top attractions in the region

Pot Cove Gap

Gorge

Explore the region

Hiking in National Forests In North Carolina

Most popular attractions in National Forests In North Carolina

Places to see

Collections

The Bartram Trail β€” In the footsteps of William Bartram

Hiking Collection by

oliviakellis

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Lake Lure

Frequently asked questions

What are the National Forests in North Carolina?

The National Forests in North Carolina comprise four distinct forests: Croatan, Uwharrie, Pisgah, and Nantahala. They cover 1.25 million acres across the state, offering diverse landscapes from coastal plains to mountain peaks. These forests provide a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities.

What outdoor activities are available in the National Forests in North Carolina?

The National Forests in North Carolina offer a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, touring cycling, road cycling, jogging, and gravel biking. There are more than 1,200 routes available for exploration. These activities cater to various skill levels across the diverse terrain.

Are there easy hiking trails in the National Forests in North Carolina?

Yes, the National Forests in North Carolina feature numerous easy hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels. These trails provide accessible ways to experience the diverse landscapes. Users can find specific recommendations in the Easy hikes in National Forests In North Carolina guide.

Where can I find popular hiking trails in the National Forests in North Carolina?

Popular hiking trails are found across all four forests, with significant networks in Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests. Pisgah offers trails to Linville Falls and Hawksbill Mountain, while Nantahala includes sections of the Appalachian Trail. More information is available in the Hiking in National Forests In North Carolina guide.

Are there mountain biking trails in the National Forests in North Carolina?

Yes, the National Forests in North Carolina provide over 300 miles (480 km) of designated mountain bike trails and forest roads. The Bent Creek Experimental Forest in Pisgah National Forest is a popular destination with trails ranging from easy to difficult. Specific routes can be found in the MTB Trails in National Forests In North Carolina guide.

What are some notable natural features in the National Forests in North Carolina?

Notable natural features include the Linville Gorge Wilderness in Pisgah National Forest, often called the 'Grand Canyon of the East.' Nantahala National Forest features Whitewater Falls, one of the highest east of the Rockies. Max Patch, a mountain bald, offers panoramic views.

Are there waterfall hikes in the National Forests in North Carolina?

Yes, the National Forests in North Carolina are home to dozens of waterfalls, particularly in Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests. Linville Falls in Pisgah and Whitewater Falls in Nantahala are prominent examples. A guide to Waterfall hikes in National Forests In North Carolina is available.

What kind of cycling routes are available in the National Forests in North Carolina?

The forests offer diverse cycling routes, including scenic byways like the Blue Ridge Parkway for road cycling and numerous forest roads for touring cyclists. Mountain biking trails are also extensive. Guides for Road Cycling Routes in National Forests In North Carolina and Cycling in National Forests In North Carolina provide more details.

Do I need a permit to hike in Nantahala National Forest?

Specific permits may be required for certain activities or wilderness areas within Nantahala National Forest, such as overnight backpacking in designated wildernesses. It is advisable to check the official forest service website for the most current regulations before visiting. General day hiking typically does not require a permit.

What is the official website and phone number for the National Forests in North Carolina?

The official website for the National Forests in North Carolina is www.fs.usda.gov/nfsnc. The phone number for the Forest Supervisor's Office is 828-257-4200. These resources provide current information on regulations and conditions.

How popular are the National Forests in North Carolina on komoot?

The National Forests in North Carolina are highly popular on komoot, with more than 40,000 visitors having shared their experiences. The region has an average rating of 4.71 out of 5 stars across over 1,200 routes. This indicates a high level of satisfaction among users.

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