Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area


Panthertown Valley, referred to as the Yosemite of the East, lies on the eastern continental divide in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains. With more than 25 miles of designated trails in this 6,300 acre backcountry area visitors can enjoy deep gorges and broad valleys, mountain bogs and granitic rock domes, tranquil creeks and plunging waterfalls while hiking, biking, or horseback riding. Camping is permitted in Panthertown, but groups are limited to no more than 12 people per site. No commercial equestrian or mountain bike outfitter/guides are permitted.  Please be cautioned the roads to the parking areas are rough and four-wheel drive is advised.

At a Glance

Fees: None
Open Season: year round
Usage: Light
Closest Towns: Cashiers and Sylva
Water: none
Restroom: none
Operated By: Nantahala National Forest, Nantahala Ranger District, 90 Sloan Road, Franklin, NC 28734, (828)-524-6

General Information

Directions:

To Salt Rock Gap trailhead parking: from the stop light in Cashiers take US 64 east for 2 miles to Cedar Creek Road


General Notes:

Nantahala Ranger District
90 Sloan Road
Franklin, NC 28734
(828) 524-6441


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Mountain Biking

Dispersed Camping

Rock Climbing

Day Hiking

Backpacking

Horse Camping

Horse Riding

Viewing Wildlife

Viewing Plants

Viewing Scenery