Cheoah Bald via Bartram Trail

200 years after William Bartram explored the Cherokee territory, we continue to follow his footsteps into the Nantahala forest. Lined with rhododendrons and other riparian vegetation, this section of the trail takes you about 3000 ft up from from the bottom of the Nantahala Gorge to the approximately 5k foot peak at the Bartram Trail's northern terminus, Cheoah Bald. We may see a few early thru hikers on the 0.2 miles of the AT we will hike near our summit. With clear weather we should have a nice view from the bald. If not, we will still enjoy our time following Ledbetter Creek for most of the 11 total miles of trail.

Given steep and wet trail conditions, waterproof boots and poles are recommended.

After leaving the carpool at 7:00 a.m, we will stop in Clayton on the way for a bathroom break. We will begin the hike at 10:30 a.m.

Once we reach the bald after approximately 5 and 1/2 miles of hiking, we will stop and eat lunch. Then, it's all downhill back to the parking area at Winding Stair.

After our daunting effort, we deserve a meal. I plan to stop for dinner in Clayton on the way home. If you do not wish to stop, please make your plans known at the carpool so that you can potentially ride with another doing the same. Otherwise, you may need to drive your own vehicle. Arrival time at the carpool location is undetermined. It will depend on hiking conditions and how much fun we have at dinner. 

Previous D5 experience is required. You may be asked about your previous hiking experience due to the elevation and terrain. 

Detailed Directions will be provided to Carpool drivers. 

Winding Stair parking area is off of 74/19 about 6 miles past the NOC (Nantahala Outdoor Center) on the left. The trailhead is across the road. 

or 

I-85/985 to US 23 N/ US-441N into NC. From the Hwy 441/ U S 64 intersection on the south side of Franklin, N.Carolina, you head west on U.S 64. After 3.8 miles you see a sign for Wayah Bald and LBJ Job Corp. Take that right turn onto Old Murphy Rd and go about .3 mile. On the left you see a gas station, and Wayah Rd (State Route 1310) heading off to the left. Stay on that road for about 27 miles until you come to a T intersection with Hwy 19. Take a right, and go about .8 miles, passing an Historical Marker turn off. The parking area can hold about 8 cars, and has a huge sign just after the driveway for the Rocky Water Campground.