{"id":36280,"date":"2018-08-06T15:00:54","date_gmt":"2018-08-06T22:00:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/?p=36280"},"modified":"2023-09-07T23:46:34","modified_gmt":"2023-09-08T06:46:34","slug":"best-north-carolina-backpacking","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/hike\/best-north-carolina-backpacking","title":{"rendered":"The Best Backpacking Trails in North Carolina"},"content":{"rendered":"<span class=\"cb-itemprop\" itemprop=\"reviewBody\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With mountain scenery, abundant campsites and shelters, and well-maintained trails in locations like Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Pisgah National Forest, Linville Gorge Wilderness, and Shining Rock Wilderness, a backpacking trip in North Carolina rewards hikers with stunning vistas, verdant woods, picturesque waterfalls, and memorable sunrises and sunsets. Whether you are planning for a single night out or a multiday adventure, you will be treated to a memorable experience. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And remember: wherever your adventures lead, be sure to practice <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/learn\/expert-advice\/leave-no-trace.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leave No Trace principles<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and leave your campsite cleaner than you found it. <\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Art Loeb Trail <\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Brevard, NC, in the Pisgah National Forest and Shining Rock Wilderness<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 31.1 miles one-way point-to-point<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Intermediate\/difficult<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Ridgeline hiking with panoramic views<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Dogs: <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leashed<\/span><\/b><\/li>\n<li><strong>Restrictions and Permits:<\/strong> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No campfires in the Shining Rock Wilderness. Bear canisters are required, and group size is limited to 10 people in the wilderness area. For more information and current conditions, call the Pisgah Ranger District at 828-877-3265.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Art Loeb Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;is one of the best-known and most iconic long-distance trails in North Carolina. Tackling the full length of this 30+ mile trail as a two- to three-night backpacking trip is one of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of this popular region. You can hike the trail in either direction. Come prepared for sections of rugged terrain and steep climbs.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The rewards are well worth the effort as the trail crosses several of the highest points in Pisgah National Forest including <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Black Balsam Knob (6,214 feet), Tennent Mountain (6,040 feet) and Pilot Mountain (5,072 feet)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. From these vantage points, the 360-degree views of the forested mountains and expansive sky are stunning. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While the Art Loeb Trail can be hiked year-round, the spring and fall offer unique opportunities to enjoy wildflowers and autumn colors in season. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The trail passes through Pisgah National Forest on the southern end and enters into the Shining Rock Wilderness on the northern end. Wilderness restrictions apply, and more information about backcountry camping in the wilderness can be found&nbsp;<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fs.usda.gov\/recarea\/nfsnc\/recreation\/camping-cabins\/recarea\/?recid=48260&amp;actid=34\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Be aware that the section of trail in the Shining Rock Wilderness is not signed or blazed and is less well-traveled than some of the other portions of the Art Loeb Trail that are popular day hikes. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Water is normally available on the north and south ends of the route but the section north of Pilot Mountain follows a ridgeline where water is not readily accessible so be sure to fill up at the spring at Deep Gap Shelter before Black Balsam if heading north. Dispersed camping is available throughout the national forest and wilderness area.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Mount Le Conte Loop<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Bryson City, NC, in Great Smoky Mountains National Park&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 16.0 miles round-trip loop<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Intermediate\/difficult<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A one-night trip on a wooded loop with streams and waterfalls<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Dogs: <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No dogs<\/span><\/b><\/li>\n<li><b>Restrictions and Permits:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Camping is only permitted at designated backcountry campsites and shelters. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All campsites must be registered with the park. Backcountry rules and regulations can be found <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/grsm\/planyourvisit\/backcountry-regs.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This loop excursion through the Roaring Fork area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park culminates with an easy ascent to the summit of Mount Le Conte. At the start, you will pass scenic side streams until reaching Roaring Fork and Grotto Falls. The trail to Grotto Falls is often busy as this is a popular day hike, but once you are past the falls, you will enjoy a more secluded setting.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When hiking counterclockwise, you will enjoy a steady but overall gradual ascent to the summit of Mount Le Conte, the park&#8217;s third highest peak at an elevation of 6,593 feet. Here, you have the option to stay at the Le Conte Shelter for your overnight stay, or if you are looking for a bit more luxury, you can book a room at the <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.lecontelodge.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LeConte Lodge<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Be sure to make your reservation in advance as the lodge is a popular overnight option. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your second day on the trails will include a pleasant and gradual descent back to the trailhead. Be sure to allot time for a stop-off at <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rainbow Falls<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. This 80-foot cascade is especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon when you might spot the falls\u2019 namesake rainbow in the mist. Use caution if hiking on the rocks around the falls, as they can be extremely slippery when wet. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The rest of the hike concludes on a pleasant trail following Le Conte Creek. Water is generally abundant along the route. In the spring, from early April to late May, you will enjoy a showy display of wildflowers including mountain laurel, rhododendron, azalea and many others. Black bears and white-tailed deer are common, as are a wide variety of birds. If hiking in the winter, note that the secondary roads at the park are sometimes closed due to snow, but if you can access the trails, you will enjoy the added bonus of otherworldly ice formations on the streams and waterfalls.<\/span><br \/>\n<!-- END Hiking Project --><\/p>\n<h2><b>Spence Field Loop<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Robbinsville, NC, in Great Smoky Mountains National Park&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 13.7 miles round-trip loop<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Intermediate\/difficult<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A pleasant multiday trip incorporating a section of the Appalachian Trail<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Dogs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No dogs<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Restrictions and Permits: <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Camping is only permitted at designated backcountry campsites and shelters. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All campsites must be registered with the park. Backcountry rules and regulations can be found <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/grsm\/planyourvisit\/backcountry-regs.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Hikers looking for a relaxing one- or two-night backpacking trip will enjoy the Spence Field Loop in Cades Cove. Crossing over the state line to start in Tennessee and hiking back to the North Carolina state line, you will enjoy a unique two-state journey on well-maintained trails. The easier trails, gentle inclines and several well-used campsite options make this loop an appealing route for those looking for shorter mileage days.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If hiking the loop clockwise, the trail starts with a gradual climb up to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spence Field<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, passing Backcountry Camp 9 about 3 miles into the hike. Continuing on the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bote Mountain Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> will bring you to grassy Spence Field, with expansive views of the Smoky Mountains stretching into both North Carolina and Tennessee. The Spence Field Shelter is a short hike south from Spence Field on the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eagle Creek Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and offers your second overnight option.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Continuing on from Spence Field, you will hike along a scenic section of the Appalachian Trail. Enjoy the views and the well-used singletrack trail as it winds onward to the Russell Field Shelter. This shelter is your third overnight option with a shelter and a nearby camping area. Continuing down the Russell Field Trail, you will reach Backcountry Campsite 10, which offers another more secluded option if you&#8217;d rather not stay at the shelters. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once past this campsite, it is an easy descent all the way back to the trailhead at Cades Cove. Water is available on the lower portions of the trail near the branches of Anthony Creek. The upper section of the hike along the Appalachian Trail does not have readily accessible water so plan accordingly.<\/span><!-- END Hiking Project --><\/p>\n<h2><b>Lemon Gap to Max Patch<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Marshall, NC, in Pisgah National Forest<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 10.6 miles out-and-back<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Difficult<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A challenging route culminating in iconic views from Max Patch<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Dogs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leashed <\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Restrictions and Permits: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dispersed camping allowed in designated areas only. <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This overnight trip is a rewarding expedition in the more rugged terrain of Pisgah National Forest. Experienced backpackers will enjoy the physical challenge and memorable scenery of the trip. The hike starts from the Lemon Gap Trailhead which is a less popular option than the often-crowded Max Gap Trailhead, and gives you a better chance of finding parking, although you will still want to arrive early. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Lemon Gap, the hike starts with a steady <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/product\/635168\/climbon-lotion-bar-1-oz\">climb on<\/a> the Appalachian Trail toward Max Gap. You will be hiking in lush woods, and in the early spring, you will cross several small streams that run off into the Roaring Fork. In the summer, these streams may be dry so you will want to carry enough water when heading south from the Roaring Fork Shelter. The Roaring Fork Shelter, if it serves as your first night&#8217;s destination, has water and several tents sites nearby.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At about 4 miles, you will catch your first glimpse of Max Patch, and after a short and steep climb, you will reach this incredible bald. You won&#8217;t wonder why the area is so popular\u2014the views from the large grassy hilltop of the bald are outstanding with the Unakas to the north, the Great Smoky Mountains to the south, and the Great Balsam and Black Mountains to the southeast. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Max Patch, you can choose to either hike an out-and-back to the high point of Max Patch Mountain or hike the full loop around the bald on the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Max Patch Short Loop<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Either way, once you are done enjoying the view, head back down the Appalachian Trail to the trailhead. If you are looking for shorter mileage days, you can make this a two-night trip with an overnight at one of the dispersed sites at Max Patch or with a second stop at the Roaring Fork Shelter on the descent back to the Lemon Gap Trailhead.<\/span><br \/>\n<!-- END Hiking Project --><\/p>\n<h2><b>Charlies Bunion via Kephart Loop<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Cherokee, NC, in Great Smoky Mountains National Park&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 14.4 miles round-trip loop<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Intermediate\/difficult<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A less-crowded route with a family-friendly option<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Dogs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No dogs<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Restrictions and Permits: <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Camping is permitted only at designated backcountry campsites and shelters. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All campsites must be registered with the park. Backcountry rules and regulations can be found <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/grsm\/planyourvisit\/backcountry-regs.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This pleasant loop offers a glimpse into the history of Great Smoky Mountains National Park while also climbing to one of the park&#8217;s more memorable viewpoints, <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Charlies Bunion<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Starting on the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kephart Prong Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you will be treated to a gentle, wooded climb. Along the way, you will pass the remains of a Civilian Conservation Corps Camp from the early 1930s. Continue hiking to the Kephart Shelter, which is your first opportunity for an overnight stay. If you are looking for a first-time overnight or family-friendly backpacking trip, a one-night out-and-back to Kephart Shelter provides a 4-mile round-trip option on easy, well-maintained trails.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Continuing on from Kephart Prong on the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Grassy Branch Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you will encounter a more challenging climb as you ascend from the Oconaluftee River valley. You may cross several small streams, and sections of the trail can be muddy if there has been a recent rain. Take a left onto the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dry Sluice Gap Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and continue your climb up to the Appalachian Trail and Charlies Bunion. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The views from Charlies Bunion are some of the most rewarding in the park, and due to its location, it tends to be less busy than some of the other viewpoints in the Smokies. Continue on the Appalachian Trail, passing Masa Knob to the south. You will enjoy several unobstructed viewpoints from the ridgeline before descending to the Icewater Spring Shelter, your second option for an overnight stay. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Icewater Spring Shelter, your next day starts with a short and gradual climb followed by a long downhill as a reward for all your previous efforts. Turn off the Appalachian Trail onto the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sweat Heifer Creek Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a rough and, at times, rocky descent that passes through areas of second-growth forest. There are several small stream crossings along the way. The trail winds back to the east to reconnect to the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kephart Prong Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which you will follow south for an easy meander back to the trailhead.<\/span><br \/>\n<!-- END Hiking Project --><\/p>\n<h2><b>Deep Creek to Clingmans Dome<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Bryson City, NC, in Great Smoky Mountains National Park&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 49.5 miles round-trip loop<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Difficult<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A four-day (or more) adventure on some of the lesser-known trails of Great Smoky Mountain National Park<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Dogs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No dogs<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Restrictions and Permits: <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Camping is only permitted at designated backcountry campsites and shelters. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All campsites must be registered with the park. Backcountry rules and regulations can be found <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/grsm\/planyourvisit\/backcountry-regs.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This figure-eight loop is the quintessential Great Smoky Mountains backpacking excursion. While recommended for more experienced backpackers looking for a longer route, there are options to create shorter loops as well. This route hits all the highlights with numerous waterfalls, panoramic views of the Smokies from <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clingmans Dome<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, historical landmarks, seasonal wildflowers and fall colors that you won&#8217;t want to miss.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The first day follows along Deep Creek on the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Deep Creek Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, highlighted by the cascades of Juney Whank Falls, Tom Branch Falls and Indian Creek Falls. Deep Creek Trail is a popular day hike, and in the summer, you may encounter tubers enjoying the cool waters of Deep Creek. The stream-side climb is very gradual, and before you know it, you will reach your first overnight site with a couple of backcountry campsites to choose from.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The next day, the climbing begins more earnestly up <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pole Road Creek Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. You may need to take some short rest stops, but if you can keep a good pace for the next 8 miles, you should reach Clingmans Dome around early afternoon\u2014the highest point in the Smokies makes for a memorable lunch spot! Be sure to climb the observation tower to really soak up the views. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">From Clingmans Dome, it&#8217;s a rocky and challenging descent on the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Forney Creek Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to reach the next batch of campsites around Forney Creek. Along the way, you can choose to add on the short out-and-back to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Andrews Bald<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for additional views. Depending on which campsite you reserve, you will either end your day with a water crossing or start your morning with one. The challenge of the third day of hiking lies along the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Springhouse Branch Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a grueling climb of nearly 2,000 feet over the course of 7 miles. At the end of Springhouse Branch, there is a campsite with picnic tables where you can take a well-earned break. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Continuing on the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nolan Creek Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you maintain a steady but much more gradual climb through a section of beautiful woods with three backcountry campsites to choose from. The final day starts with another climb to bring you back to the Noland Divide Trail. The highlight of your last day is Lonesome Pine Overlook, a gorgeous viewpoint that is lush with wildflowers in season. The final portion of the hike concludes with a gradual downhill leading back to the Deep Creek Trailhead.<\/span><br \/>\n<!-- END Hiking Project --><\/p>\n<h2><b>Sam Knob Loop<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Brevard, NC, in Pisgah National Forest<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 9.8 miles round-trip loop<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Intermediate<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A short loop with two overlooks and dispersed camping options<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Dogs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leashed<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Restrictions and Permits: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dispersed camping allowed in designated areas only. <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At just shy of 10 miles in length, this loop is an approachable distance for beginner and intermediate backpackers as well as those looking for a short one-night trip. The views from the top of Sam Knob are spectacular, and there are several picturesque waterfalls along the route. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your hike begins on the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sam Knob Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If hiking the loop counterclockwise, you will tackle a brief climb up to Sam Knob; be sure to take the short side trail to climb all the way up to the top of the knob for the best views. After retracing your steps and returning to the loop, the trail descends steadily but very gradually, heading through scenic woods. The trail crosses a creek a few times before coming to a junction with the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flat Laurel Creek Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. This section has several spots for dispersed camping, so keep your eyes open depending on how far you want to hike on this first day. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flat Laurel Creek Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> will eventually end at a trailhead and parking area, and you will join a road briefly before reconnecting with the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mountains-to-Sea Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. From this point, the rest of your hike is an uphill journey. About 1.5 miles into the trail, you have the option to hike to the top of Devil&#8217;s Courthouse, another recommended add-on for some bonus views. Once past this turn-off, the trail opens up as you pass through a meadow, providing a striking view toward Sam Knob and Little Sam Knob.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Linville Gorge Wilderness Loop<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Glen Alpine, NC, in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: 21.9 miles round-trip loop<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Difficulty Rating<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Difficult<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Best For<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A rugged and remote excursion into a beautiful wilderness area<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Dogs: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leashed<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Restrictions and Permits: <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A free camping permit is needed on weekends and holidays from May to October. Group size is limited to 10 people. More information on obtaining a permit can be found <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fs.usda.gov\/recarea\/nfsnc\/recarea\/?recid=48974\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Also known as the Grand South Loop, this long and challenging loop explores the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area on what is sure to be a memorable backcountry experience. The terrain around the gorge is steep and rugged, and you may find yourself doing some basic route-finding to stay on course.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Starting at the southernmost corner of the loop, head north on the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shortoff Mountain Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. This section is particularly scenic and has several ideal camp spots. This trail is more clearly marked and well-used than some of the other trails in the area. The most coveted dispersed camping sites are located near Big Flat Rock Overlook and boast a stunning view over the gorge.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Continuing on from the overlook, you will climb the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Table Rock Summit Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Table Rock Summit<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> where you can enjoy another panoramic view of the area. After this, continue north of the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Little Table Rock Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for a roughly 1,000-foot descent to the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spence Ridge Trail<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and the Linville River, which you will cross at this northernmost portion of the loop.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Next up is the <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Linville Gorge Trail<\/span>,<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> which follows along the western portion of the wilderness next to the Linville River <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">passing beneath rugged cliffs and through hardwood forests spotted with boulders and cascades. Dispersed camping is available along this portion, although it may be a bit harder to find a site due to the more rugged nature of the terrain. Your close proximity to the river makes access to water easy. At the southern end of the loop, you will once again cross the Linville River and climb steeply back up to the trailhead parking area.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/span>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>With mountain scenery, abundant campsites and shelters, and well-maintained trails in locations like Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Pisgah National Forest, Linville Gorge Wilderness, and Shining Rock Wilderness, a backpacking trip in North Carolina rewards hikers with stunning vistas, verdant woods, picturesque waterfalls, and memorable sunrises and sunsets. Whether you are planning for a single [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":72,"featured_media":192966,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[387],"tags":[15,707,298,1542],"internal-tag":[1678,1442],"class_list":["post-36280","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-hike","tag-backpacking","tag-hiking","tag-north-carolina","tag-south","internal-tag-pre-redirect-hiking","internal-tag-seo"],"parsely":{"version":"1.1.0","canonical_url":"https:\/\/rei.com\/blog\/hike\/best-north-carolina-backpacking","smart_links":{"inbound":0,"outbound":0},"traffic_boost_suggestions_count":0,"meta":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","headline":"The Best Backpacking Trails in North Carolina","url":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/hike\/best-north-carolina-backpacking","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/hike\/best-north-carolina-backpacking"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2018\/08\/KEIKO_10272019_2817.jpg?resize=150%2C150","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2018\/08\/KEIKO_10272019_2817.jpg?fit=5760%2C3840"},"articleSection":"Hike","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Jessica Bernhard"}],"creator":["Jessica Bernhard"],"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Uncommon Path \u2013 An REI Co-op Publication","logo":""},"keywords":["backpacking","hiking","north carolina","south"],"dateCreated":"2018-08-06T22:00:54Z","datePublished":"2018-08-06T22:00:54Z","dateModified":"2023-09-08T06:46:34Z"},"rendered":"<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"wp-parsely-metadata\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"NewsArticle\",\"headline\":\"The Best Backpacking Trails in North Carolina\",\"url\":\"http:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/hike\\\/best-north-carolina-backpacking\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"http:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/hike\\\/best-north-carolina-backpacking\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/4\\\/2018\\\/08\\\/KEIKO_10272019_2817.jpg?resize=150%2C150\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.rei.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/4\\\/2018\\\/08\\\/KEIKO_10272019_2817.jpg?fit=5760%2C3840\"},\"articleSection\":\"Hike\",\"author\":[{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Jessica Bernhard\"}],\"creator\":[\"Jessica Bernhard\"],\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"Uncommon Path \\u2013 An REI Co-op Publication\",\"logo\":\"\"},\"keywords\":[\"backpacking\",\"hiking\",\"north carolina\",\"south\"],\"dateCreated\":\"2018-08-06T22:00:54Z\",\"datePublished\":\"2018-08-06T22:00:54Z\",\"dateModified\":\"2023-09-08T06:46:34Z\"}<\/script>","tracker_url":"https:\/\/cdn.parsely.com\/keys\/rei.com\/p.js"},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2018\/08\/KEIKO_10272019_2817.jpg?fit=5760%2C3840","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36280","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/72"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=36280"}],"version-history":[{"count":34,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36280\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":192967,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/36280\/revisions\/192967"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/192966"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=36280"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=36280"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=36280"},{"taxonomy":"internal-tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/internal-tag?post=36280"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}