foggy views but still worth it. I did get to the top to a cell phone tower, however, and got a glimpse of a view. The easiest way to find it is by looking for the sign for the road that goes up to the Wayah Bald lookout. Offering astounding views in all directions from the end of a short paved path, Wayah Bald is a great choice when you're just looking for a quick adventure. I also talked to someone who had trail magic at the summit. Myers attempted to complete a thru-hike of the AT this past summer, but chose to leave the trail before completing his hike due to COVID-19. (Wayah means wolf in the Cherokee language). There are restroom facilities at the parking area. There are many outstanding places to visit on the Bartram Trail. Hike Start Location: After taking U.S. 64 west for 3 miles out of Franklin, turn right at Wayah Bald directional sign. At the upper end of the picnic area you will find the white blazes of the AT – follow … About 2 hrs up and 2 down. Access is via the Appalachian Trail from the Wayah Crest picnic area, just across sr 1310 from the road to Wayah Bald. Wayah Bald to Sawmill Gap via Bartram Trail is a 7 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Franklin, North Carolina that offers the chance to see wildlife and is rated as moderate. I got to Wayah Bald, and it was a beautiful day. The trail starts from Wayah Gap, an unassuming spot that is easy to miss. You can still enjoy views from the tower, where you can see the Cheoah and Great Smoky Mountains to the north above the trees. Hooper Bald is located south of Huckleberry Knob across the Cherohala Skyway and is also reached by a short, easy hike. The view at the tower is breathtaking and well worth the climb. So I would say this hike is about 3 miles from the start, where the directions via this app take you, to Wayah bald lookout tower. It is only sprinkling right now, but everything is blanketed in a heavy fog. We parked a car at the Wayah Bald parking area and drove another car back down to the Wayah Gap/Crest parking area. The Nantahala section of the Bartram Trail stretches 21 miles (a two-night hike) from the Duke Energy Power Plant on Wayah Road (above) to Wayah Bald. The Appalachian and Bartram trails both pass by the tower for more … 1310) and go 6 miles. Hiking from Wayah Gap to Wayah Bald is a fun, moderate 8.5 mile hike. The ending elevation was 4,092 feet, and the elevation was more consistent with the climbs and descents over the last section. Looking … The peak has a long history of significance within the region. Mile 0.5 – The high point of Hooper Bald (5,429 feet) is located on the right near a small rock outcrop with views south. 1310) and go 6 miles. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. The Appalachian Trail bypasses the Wayah Gap trailhead (see map), and crosses over Wayah Road before starting the ascent to Wine Spring Bald. Well maintained, easy to follow trail. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. There are multiple places to filter water and camping spots where the Bartram Trail intersects if you're not up for doing this in one day. Well maintained. We went a couple days after a snowfall and it was quite beautiful. Wayah Bald via Appalachian Trail is a 8.6 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Topton, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. 1310) and go 6 miles. Our hike from Wayah Gap to Wayah Bald, NC on the Appalachian Trail. Took me an hour and a half to get to the tower. Good days work for this old gal. Dogs are also able to use this trail. No one had been on it since the snow so I had to make my own trail almost the whole way. As you wind around Wine Spring Bald, the second tallest peak in the Nantahala Mountains, you’ll pass by a beautiful series of campsites above 5,000 feet with the reliable Wine Spring as the water source. The Southbound AT starts just across the road with a short series of stairs. The ending elevation was 4,092 feet, and the elevation was more consistent with the climbs and descents over the last section. Includes pic taking and an occasional chat with a thru hiker. If I ever do, I think it might be a struggle to go on living. I spent a good 15-20 minutes on the tower taking pictures and taking the views in. I barely heard her as my senses were overtaken by the sheer jaw-dropping vista this morning at Wayah Bald. It's a great spot that offers 360 views and a nice camping spot. I went after a good snowstorm so most of the trail had 6in+ of snow. The Appalachian and Bartram trails both pass by the tower for more adventurous hikers, so anyone can … The peak has a long history of significance within the region. Mile 4.1 – The Appalachian and Bartram Trails reach the Wayah Bald Recreation Area. I swear, that place puts a broad and genuine smile on every face lucky enough to find it We really enjoyed this hike, but expected it to be an 8 mile hike one way. The trail is easy to follow and has a steep section through a pretty meadow toward the summit. Picnic nearby or hike two long-distance trails, the Appalachain and Bartram Trails that cross the bald at the tower. Wayah Bald This peak is just over a mile high and can be accessed via two routes: the Appalachian Trail or via paved Wayah Road and then about 3+ miles of graveled forest service road. Take first left onto Wayah Road (S.R. The view from a top the stone observation tower has to be among the best in the area. :). I love this beautiful place. The beautiful stone lookout tower was built in 1937. From Wayah Crest Picnic Area to Siler Bald is a very popular day hike along the AT. Looking Glass Rock Trail (Brevard) At 6.5 miles round-trip, this hike is a bit more strenuous. A nice moderate hike for sure, no need to overload your pack for this one but you'll want some snacks and water. Highlights. The trail takes its name from William Bartram, a naturalist and explorer who roamed the southern wilderness from Florida to North Carolina 200 years ago. See Nantahala map. More than 2 million people are said to take a hike on part of the trail … The woods have an eery feel to … Total Hike […] Location. Wayah Bald A quiet morning with sounds of grass brushing against my hiking pants broken by the occasional cry of a bird or crunch of tires on the fire road. Wayah Bald is a popular destination for travelers in North Carolina. Wayah Bald just outside of Franklin NC has excellent views from an elevation of 5,342 feet Appalachian Trail runs along FR #69 and continues up and over Wayah Bald crossing right by the lookout tower (White Blazed) ; Bartram Trail (Yellow Blaze) passes through the … There is a small bald area near the turnaround, along with a … There is a small car park with enough space for 2-3 cars just East of the Wayah Bald … My garmin total mileage was 8.5 miles with 2,000ft elevation gain. Great trail if you're looking for a relatively challenging day hike. View the Full Album of Photos From This Hike. Day 5: Wayah Bald to Tellico Gap, June 28, 2017 “I’ll just hike a little ways with you” Words from Momma Puma as we pulled into the Wayah Bald parking area. Take first left onto Wayah … Wayah Bald lookout tower is proof of this. The first time was when I hiked my first 20 mile day. Wayah Bald via Burningtown Gap Soak up majestic views from the summit lookout tower of Wayah Bald on this 9 mile hike southbound along the Appalachian Trail. The stone lookout tower on Wayah Bald provides outstanding views south of the biggest mountains in Nantahala National Forest. Mile 4.2 – Reach the summit of Wayah Bald (5,342 feet). We hike sections of the Bartram Trail in GA, and NC. Bartram Trail is a 115-mile National Recreation Trail that stretches from northern Georgia to Cheoah Bald in North Carolina, named for William Bartram, a major American naturalist. With its summit conveniently located at the intersection of the heavily used Appalachian Trail and Bartram Trail, Wayah Bald is popular to hikers as a starting point, mid-point, and end-goal. The trail passes by a campsite at 0.9 miles and reaches 4100 foot Swinging Lick Gap at 1.2 miles. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Come back through the bald for a spectacular view. View of Route, cross intersection with FR 69A/Shot Pouch Trail [17], T-junction with the Wilson Lick Trail [369], Reach the summit of Wayah Bald (5,342 feet), a forest fire in November 2016 severely burned the south side of Wayah Bald, destroyed the wooden top cab of the tower, Cheoah Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains, Turn left onto the blue-blazed connector, Turn right onto FR 69B/Wine Spring Bald Rd, 4 hours and 15 minutes with 45 minutes of breaks. Wayah Bald via Burningtown Gap. Starting at Wayah Bald tower hike on the AT north to the Bartram Trail. After fueling up, head back down and continue along the AT. These hikes are limited to 6 – 10 people. Completed this trail today with my two pups. Acting as a connecting road from the Nantahala Gorge and the city of Franklin, Wayah Road is home to many of the areas best hiking trails. Turn right following the wide rectangular strip of grass east. Take first left onto Wayah Road (S.R. You’ll start at a relatively high elevation and never experience a steep grade, making this 9.1-mile hike easier than the length suggests. Sitting on top of Wayah Bald lookout tower, I reminisced about the previous times I'd been there. According to my gps about 3 miles one way. The tower offers a great view of the Appalachian Mountains in Georgia, Tennessee and both North and South Carolinas. This listing can only cover a few. Wayah Bald is a popular destination for travelers in North Carolina. The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and backpacking. The tower at the top had phenomenal 360 views, we were fortunate to visit on a clear day. In November 2016, a forest fire ravaged the south slope of the mountain and incinerated the wooden top cab of the tower. Myers attempted to complete a thru-hike of the AT this past summer, but chose to leave the trail before completing his hike … 8.5 miles round trip. After leaving Wayah Bald Shelter, I continue to descend Wayah Bald until it starts to level of for about 1/2 a mile before you reach Licklog Gap (122.1 miles). Hotels near Wayah Bald Lookout Tower: (1.47 mi) Hampton Inn Franklin (2.75 mi) Carolina Motel (0.75 mi) The Franklin Terrace Bed And Breakfast (0.53 mi) Hilltop Inn (1.30 mi) Comfort Inn; View all hotels near Wayah Bald Lookout Tower on Tripadvisor Wayah Bald via Appalachian Trail is a 8.6 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Topton, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. It is only sprinkling right now, but everything is blanketed in a heavy fog. After talking to him and some other overnight hikers, I decided it was time to hike. Wayah Bald - 7.30 Miles - From Siler Bald Shelter To Wayah Shelter - The rain settled in last night. The view from Wayah Bald is majestic! Siler Bald via Wayah Gap: the hike The hike departs from the picnic area at Wayah Gap, located just off NC SR1310, Wayah Road (view maps and driving directions). Although there are some problems with the trails and some minor improvements can be made, I love this place. At 2.1 miles the trail passes 4383 foot Panther Gap. Looking Glass Rock Trail (Brevard) At 6.5 miles round-trip, this hike is a bit more strenuous. I do not think I would have camped here last night if I would have known how This section is pretty, but not particularly … This trail was not 16 miles. Seth, what part of the trail was that camping section located at? From Wayah Gap the Appalachian Trail passes through beautiful hardwood forests as it ascends Trimont Ridge. Some are well-known and maintained like Wayah Bald … This section of the AT begins at Winding Stair Gap where the trail leaves US 64. The out and back mileage should be closer to 8.4 and not 16 miles. The lookout tower on Wesser Bald, like Wayah Bald, is along the Appalachian Trail. Be sure to get in a hike with the easiest being the Wayah Bald Lookout Tower. Not well marked I guess. The Local Directions From intersection of U.S. Hwy-64 West and U.S. Hwy-23/441 North in Franklin take Hwy-64 West towards Murphy, NC for 3.8 miles to "Old Murphy Rd. The mountain is named for "Wa ya", the Cherokee word for wolf, in tribute to the red wolves that lived on the peak pri… The only downside to this trail is that there are very few views on the way up. Wesser Bald Lookout Tower is located north on the Appalachian Trail, and it can be accessed by a four-mile round-trip hike. The quaint, stone lookout tower on Wayah Bald was completed in 1937. From Wayah Crest Picnic Area to Siler Bald is a very popular day hike along the AT. View the Full Album of Photos From This Hike. Some are well-known and maintained like Wayah Bald Observation Tower while others like Burningtown Gap take a more adventurous spirit as well as a sturdy vehicle. I watched as the sky clouded up, to … The highlight is the panoramic southern view which stretches from Franklin and the Little Tennessee River Valley southeast, the Southern Nantahala Wilderness due south, and Siler Bald and Boteler Peak southwest. Four people per car with windows down for air circulation. At 2.1 miles the trail … The view from a top the stone observation tower has to be among the best in the area. Leaving Licklog, I started a short 300 foot climb … Day 2 - We left Wayah Bald and made our way to Wesser Bald Shelter (MM 120.8 to 131.4). This is a great spot to take a break and have a snack. ... 5/10/2011 Appalachian Trail - Bartram Trail - Wayah Bald … In the 1930s, the historic Wayah Bald Fire Tower was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Wayah Bald This peak is just over a mile high and can be accessed via two routes: the Appalachian Trail or via paved Wayah Road and then about 3+ miles of graveled forest service road. From Franklin, travel west on US 64 to old US 64 (Old Murphy Road). Day 5: Wayah Bald to Tellico Gap, June 28, 2017 “I’ll just hike a little ways with you” Words from Momma Puma as we pulled into the Wayah Bald parking area. While you can drive right up to the tower, that's no fun and won't burn off the waffles with extra syrup you had for breakfast. Started the hike at 10:45 AM, was back at my car by 2:30 PM, and I snacked and took pictures at the tower of course. The trail starts from Wayah Gap, an unassuming spot that is easy to miss. Forest Road 69 is just off Wayah Road at Wayah Gap and is about 4 1/2 miles to the … The Appalachian Trail (Georgia to Maine) passes just a few miles West of Franklin, and can be accessed at many places. The trail is about 2,200 miles (3,500 km) long, though the exact length changes over time as parts are modified or rerouted. If I ever do, I think it might be a struggle to go on living. I started up Siler Bald first, and I'm happy I did since I had a few minutes of clear-ish skies enough to get some views before the fog rolled in. Trail was a great workout. The trail covers 117 miles in NC and GA ! The Bartram Trail also passes through Franklin, going East-West, and offers many highlights. Day 3 - The last leg of our hike took us from Wesser Bald Shelter to the NOC (Nantahala Outdoor Center) (MM 131.4 to 137.3). Great hike to an awesome Fire! The views from the tower are 360. great trip. The trail passes by a campsite at 0.9 miles and reaches 4100 foot Swinging Lick Gap at 1.2 miles. Wayah Bald - 7.30 Miles - From Siler Bald Shelter To Wayah Shelter - The rain settled in last night. After 4.5 miles you'll reach the first of the balds: Siler Bald. Some moderate uphill stretches balanced out with flat breaks! These hikes are limited to 6 – 10 people. A steep side trail leads up to the 5607 foot summit and offers spectacular views. The second was on a winter AT backpacking … It took 4 hours round trip with a short break at the summit. The Appalachian and Bartram Trails lead directly to the tower on Wayah Bald at 5,342 feet. The view from Wayah Bald … Its historic fire tower affords great views of the southern … Very challenging for a once a year hiker but doable. Follow the paved walkway to the summit. Looking … Masks are required during congregating and driving to the trail head. Starting at Wayah Bald tower hike on the AT north to the Bartram Trail. I then drove to Wayah Bald. 3D The trek from the road to the bald is almost completely uphill, with some flatter areas about half way. Wayah Bald, near Franklin, is a popular destination for hikers, especially in the early summer when rhododendron and azalea are in bloom. Wayah Bald Lookout Tower is located at the end of the unpaved National Forest Road 69 near Franklin North Carolina. I watched as the sky clouded up, to the point I thought rain was imminent, then, in a blink, the sun would break through and make the forest glow. In addition to the journal notes, sketches, Polaroid snapshots, etc., made in 1982, a narrative description of mine titled “High Rocks” was published in the “Fall-Winter 1982” issue of The Wayah Review; and a … Wayah Bald A quiet morning with sounds of grass brushing against my hiking pants broken by the occasional cry of a bird or crunch of tires on the fire road. The Camp Branch fire started near Wayah … Day 2 - We left Wayah Bald and made our way to Wesser Bald Shelter (MM 120.8 to 131.4). Soak up majestic views from the summit lookout tower of Wayah Bald on this 9 mile hike southbound along the Appalachian Trail. Mile 0.65 – The trail … Mile 0.4 – Emerge from the forest onto the beginning of the bald portion of Hooper Bald. At Wayah Bald, just a few feet from the A.T. and Bartram Trail, the Wayah Bald Tower is a treasured and often visited destination by tourists and residents of Macon and surrounding counties. Take first left onto Wayah Road (S.R. Come back through the bald for a spectacular view. If you want stunning views of the mountains without the strain of a long hike, Wayah Bald Lookout Tower is just what you’re looking for. Acting as a connecting road from the Nantahala Gorge and the city of Franklin, Wayah Road is home to many of the areas best hiking trails. This hike combines the trails for Siler Bald and Wine Spring Bald, starting from the Wayah Crest Trailhead. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy describes the Appalachian Trail as the longest hiking-only trail in the world. At Wine Spring Bald, the trail joined the AT all the way to Wayah Bald. Big Bad Wayah Bald - 12.30 Miles - From AT junction near Wine Spring Bald To Wallace Branch Trailhead - I never get tired of Wayah Bald. The lookout tower on Wesser Bald, like Wayah Bald, is along the Appalachian Trail. I went hiking there over the weekend and was a wonderful hike. This section towards Wayah … The woods have an eery feel to them. I did not get to the tower so must have missed something. By Trail Contributor: Zach Robbins (Contact Zach). An alternative to the route posted is driving up to the bald, hiking down and crossing Wayah Rd, and going to Silers Bald (the offshoot a couple miles after the road crossing). Looks like a great over view. I barely heard her as my senses were overtaken by the sheer jaw-dropping vista this morning at Wayah Bald. Classic App Trail terrain - nice path with some rocky areas and tree roots. (SR 1448) on your Right (Wayah Bald … Two long-distance trails, the Appalachian Trail and the Bartram Trail, cross at the tower. There is a small car park with enough space for 2-3 cars just East of the Wayah Bald sign. Masks are required during congregating and driving to the trail head. Turns out that it was just 4.2 miles to the Wayah Bald Tower and just over 1500 feet in elevation change. Although you can drive to the summit, the hike described here is a wonderful way to tackle the peak on foot. Day 3 - The last leg of our hike took us from Wesser Bald … Challenging and beautiful. The easiest way to find it is by looking for the sign for the road that goes up to the Wayah Bald lookout. Beautiful fall colors in mid-October and awesome views at the top when the fog clears. Big Bad Wayah Bald - 12.30 Miles - From AT junction near Wine Spring Bald To Wallace Branch Trailhead - I never get tired of Wayah Bald. Downhill most of the way back! Wayah Bald Lookout Tower If you want stunning views of the mountains without the strain of a long hike, Wayah Bald Lookout Tower is just what you’re looking for. Cross the road at Wayah Gap and prepare for the climb up to Wayah Bald. The top of Wayah Bald is a nice area with great views even before you get to the tower. This area is rich in a variety of hiking trails. Four people per car with windows down for air circulation. … Wayah Bald Lookout Tower is about 45 minutes from Franklin North Carolina. The mountain is named for "Wa ya", the Cherokee word for wolf, in tribute to the red wolves that lived on the peak pri… With its summit conveniently located at the intersection of the heavily used Appalachian Trail and Bartram Trail, Wayah Bald is popular to hikers as a starting point, mid-point, and end-goal. After hiking steadily upwards for 4 miles you arrive at a short, paved path leading to the stone fire tower on the 5342 foot summit. Although not as scenic from the summit — few mountains are — it is still worth the quick trip while you are touring the many sights of the national scenic byway. Highlights Wayah Bald just outside of Franklin NC has excellent views from an elevation of 5,342 feet Appalachian Trail runs along FR #69 and continues up and over Wayah Bald crossing right by the … While you can drive right up to the tower, … Wayah Bald Lookout Tower: Excellent scenic views and hiking trails - See 292 traveler reviews, 153 candid photos, and great deals for Franklin, NC, at Tripadvisor. Total Hike … This section of the AT begins at Winding Stair Gap where the trail leaves US 64. Take a short paved trail to the historic Wayah Bald FIre Tower. Wayah Bald You don't always have to make a grueling trek up a mountain for an amazing view. I swear, that … The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and backpacking. The biggest Mountains in Georgia, Tennessee and both North and south Carolinas just 4.2 miles the... Masks are required during congregating and driving to the Wayah wayah bald hiking trails is a small car park with enough for. 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