Just knowing about Panthertown is like having a cat in your pants

July 11, 2006 on 8:21 pm | In Mountain | No Comments

This place is hailed as “The Yosemite of the East” for its geological significance. This 6700 acre area in the Nantahala National Forest contains a diverse landscape. The Eastern Continental Divide runs over Panthertown’s granite rock domes which makes this area rife with rocky creeks and waterfalls. Because of this difficult terrain, there are still a few pockets of old growth hemlocks and birches to be found. Hopefully it will stay that way thanks to the Nature Conservancy which purchased the land in 1989 and transferred it to the US Forest Service.

If you’re willing to explore, you can find some oustanding mountain bike trails in Panthertown. Over the course of 2 separate rides,I have gotten to know this unique valley. There are two main entrances which are both many miles from anywhere! Since there is no Forest Service management plan in Panthertown, there is actually no official trail system. But my, oh my, are there trails! With that in mind, please repect this area when you visit and stay on designated trails and do not disturb vegetation or the lichens that grow on the slickrock. Otherwise, this place is worth the trip for an epic ride.

Please enjoy these great pics.