Hiking in Nantahala National Forest

North Carolina's Nantahala National Forest covers much of the Southwestern portion of the Old North State. It is the largest forest in the region, covering over 1.3 million acres of mountain lands. Many trails lace the various mountain ranges within its boundaries, from rugged hikes to the top of thousand-foot high cliffs on Whiteside Mountain, to easy strolls to waterfalls including the highest waterfall in the eastern United States! 411' high Whitewater Falls isn't the only waterfall contained in this National Forest, however. In fact, this forest is known for its waterfalls and this is a major attraction for hiking here.

This forest is divided up into four areas: the Cheoah District, Highlands District, Tusquitee District, and Wayah District. These names are all derived from the Cherokee language, and the Native American tribe's cultural roots are intertwined with the roots of the gigantic trees that grow here. The word "Nantahala" itself is derived from a Cherokee word meaning land of the noonday sun, which is a good description of the Nantahala Gorge, a geographic wonder for which this forest is named. Hiking in this area offers a great way to study culture of the true native Americans who once exclusively lived here.

Choose a district below for more information!