Max Patch


Area Status: Open

This page was last updated: 6/30/2023

Max Patch sits next to the Tennessee state line in the Harmon Den area of Hot Springs, NC. At 4,629 feet this bald offers 360-degree vistas of Mount Mitchell to the east and Great Smoky Mountains to the southwest. An abundance of ferns and grasses blanket the bald, making it perfect for picnics. Fishing is offered at the pond past the main parking lot. Recreationists are required to have a NC Fishing license and to follow all state policies regarding fishing. 

The Appalachian Trail crosses this area. For information on the Appalachian Trail visit www.appalachiantrail.org and for more information on partnerships, conservation, ecology, trails, and stewardship of Max Patch, please visit: http://www.maxpatch.org 

At a Glance

Current Conditions: Forest Closure Order regarding camping and other activities extended to 2026
Operational Hours: Area closes 1 hour after sundown. Reopens 1 hour before sunrise. Visitors prohibited during closed hours. Camping and fires prohibited.
See FOREST ORDER NO. 08-11-04-23-160 for more information outlined below.
FOREST ORDER NO. 08-11-04-23-160 Effective until June 30, 2026 (PDF Download)
Map of Closure Area (PDF Download)   
Reservations: No reservation required for access. Physical reservation of parking area or any land area is prohibited.
Fees: No fees associated
Permit Info: Groups limited to 10 individuals
Open Season: Year Round
Usage: Heavy
Busiest Season: April-October
Restrictions:
Water: None
Restroom: None
Information Center: FOREST ORDER NO. 08-11-04-23-160 Effective until June 30, 2026 Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 551 and 36 C.F.R. 261.50 (a) and (b), for the protection of public health and safety, the following acts are prohibited on and within the Max Patch area.  1. NO camping. 2. NO fires. 3. AREA CLOSES 1 hour after sundown. Reopens 1 hour before sunrise. Visitors prohibited during closed hours. 4. GROUP size limited to 10. 5. DOGS and other animals must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet, or in a crate or cage. 6. STAY ON designated trails. 7. AIRCRAFT may not land nor drop off or pick up anything in this area. DRONES are prohibited on Appalachian Trail. 8. NO fireworks. 9. BIKES must stay on roads only. 10. HORSES and other saddle and pack animals may not be ridden, hitched, tethered, or hobbled in this area.

General Information

Directions:

From Hot Springs take NC 209S for 7.3 miles to SR 1175. Go south on SR 1175 for 5.3 miles. Take SR 1181 about 3.5 miles to the end. Turn right on SR 1182 for 1.5 miles. Please be aware this parking lot holds approximately 11 cars. You may not park on the road if the parking lot is full. The road to Max Patch is a State Road- maintained by NC-DOT and TN-DOT. 

 

 


General Notes:

FOREST ORDER NO. 08-11-04-23-160 Effective until June 30, 2026

Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 551 and 36 C.F.R. 261.50 (a) and (b), for the protection of public health and safety, the following acts are prohibited on and within the Max Patch area. 

1. NO camping.

2. NO fires.

3. AREA CLOSES 1 hour after sundown. Reopens 1 hour before sunrise. Visitors prohibited during closed hours.

4. GROUP size limited to 10.

5. DOGS and other animals must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet, or in a crate or cage.

6. STAY ON designated trails.

7. AIRCRAFT may not land nor drop off or pick up anything in this area. DRONES are prohibited on Appalachian Trail.

8. NO fireworks.

9. BIKES must stay on roads only.

10. HORSES and other saddle and pack animals may not be ridden, hitched, tethered, or hobbled in this area.  


Parking:

Parking is available in the parking lot below the bald. The road to Max Patch is a State Road- maintained by NC-DOT and TN-DOT. The parking lot is small so have a back-up plan to visit another location if the lot is full. Parking along the road is prohibited in some areas so check for signs. Cars parked along the roadway have created a hazard by interfering with the flow of traffic and your car may be towed. Emergency vehicles must have a clear path. Reservations of parking spots or spots on top of the bald are also prohibited.


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Lake and Pond Fishing

General Info:

Permits & Regulations

Cold mountain streams, rivers and some ponds offer trout fishing. While the US Forest Service manages stream quality, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission regulates fishing seasons and limits. A state license is required for fishing. Every angler should get a copy of the Regulations Digest from the commission by calling (919) 662-4381 or from the website: www.wildlife.state.nc.us, select "regulations".


Day Hiking

Backpacking

Viewing Wildlife

Species of Interest: Broad-winged Hawk, Ruffed Grouse, Least Flycather, Golden-winged Warbler and Chestnut-sided Warbler.

Viewing Scenery

Picnicking