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Nantahala National Forest, Nantahala Township

4.5
#63 of 88 in Nature in North Carolina Mountains
Forest · Hidden Gem · Geologic Formation
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The Nantahala National Forest (/ˌnæntəˈheɪlə/), is the largest of the four national forests in North Carolina, lying in the mountains and valleys of western North Carolina. The Nantahala is the second wettest region in the country, after the Pacific Northwest. Due to its environmental importance and historical ties with the Cherokee, the forest was officially established on January 29, 1920 by President Woodrow Wilson. The word "Nantahala" is a Cherokee derived, meaning "Land of the Noonday Sun." In some spots, the sun reaches the floors of the deep gorges of the forest only when it is high overhead at midday. This was part of the homeland of the historic Cherokee and their indigenous ancestors, who have occupied the region for thousands of years.
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Nantahala National Forest reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
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  • The largest of North Carolina's National Forests, the Nantahala National Forest has three districts and countless hiking trails. We chose to hike in the Nantahala District in Franklin, NC, on the... 
    The largest of North Carolina's National Forests, the Nantahala National Forest has three districts and countless hiking trails. We chose to hike in the Nantahala District in Franklin, NC, on the...  more »
Google
  • The scenery is simply amazing! A simple drive through some of these roads is just breathtaking. I drove down from Gatlinburg Tennessee took Highway 19 and 74 across North Carolina towards Chattanooga. 90% of that drive the road ran along side the river. It was beautiful! I love it and definitely want to go back and explore some more of this great forest, the trails, the waterfalls, rivers, and other activities.
  • We have the best of times every time we visit western North Carolina. Such wonderful geography within the state. While visiting we make every attempt to ride roads we have not rode before, as this leads to spectacular views during different seasons. You will always see something different. Take the time to immerse yourself in the history N. Carolina has to offer.

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