Adventure Travel Guide: Bryson City, NC

Explore the scenic beauty and thrilling adventures that Bryson City, NC, offers. From towering mountains to crystal-clear rivers, this charming destination provides an array of activities for every type of adventurer. Whether you’re a hiker, angler, or thrill-seeker, prepare for an unforgettable journey in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.

Hiking

1. Deep Creek Trail This family-friendly trail is perfect for those seeking a relatively easy hike alongside beautiful waterfalls. Spanning 4.6 miles round trip, Deep Creek Trail offers mesmerizing views of Indian Creek and Tom Branch Falls. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic by the water.
2. Alum Cave Trail to Mt. LeConte A more challenging option, this trail stretches 11 miles round trip, taking you through unique geological features like Arch Rock and Inspiration Point before reaching the summit of Mt. LeConte. The views from the top are nothing short of spectacular, making the strenuous hike worthwhile.
3. Charlie’s Bunion via the Appalachian Trail Starting at Newfound Gap Road, this 8-mile round trip hike offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains. The trail is moderately challenging, with stunning landscapes and the chance to spot local wildlife.
4. Noland Creek Trail Ideal for a back-to-nature experience, this trail meanders through old-growth forests and alongside pristine streams. It is less crowded than other paths, offering a peaceful hike of up to 9.8 miles round trip, with opportunities for camping along the way.

Fly Fishing

1. Tuckasegee River Renowned for its trout and smallmouth bass fishing, the Tuckasegee River offers both wade and float fishing opportunities. With various access points near Bryson City, anglers can enjoy productive fishing spots almost throughout the year.
2. Deep Creek A haven for rainbow and brown trout, Deep Creek is perfect for fly fishing enthusiasts. The creek has three main waterfalls and can be accessed easily from Bryson City. The best fishing experience is in the spring and fall seasons.
3. Nantahala River Offering both wild and stocked trout, the Nantahala River is ideal for more experienced fly fishermen due to its colder waters and faster currents. The river’s delayed-harvest section provides excellent fishing throughout most of the year.
4. Fontana Lake Although mainly known for lake fishing, the waters around Fontana Lake offer unique opportunities for fly fishermen, especially for smallmouth bass. The scenic backdrop adds to an already exceptional fishing adventure.

Dog-Friendly Adventures

1. Tsali Recreation Area This area offers miles of multi-use trails where you can hike or mountain bike with your dog. The trails offer stunning views of Fontana Lake and the surrounding forest, ensuring a memorable experience for you and your furry friend.
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park While pet restrictions are in place for most trails, the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail welcome dogs. Both trails provide easy walks with beautiful natural scenery, making them perfect for a leisurely stroll in the great outdoors.
3. Island Park Located in downtown Bryson City, this scenic park by the Tuckasegee River is perfect for a relaxing day out with your dog. It features walking paths, picnic areas, and riverside views, providing a tranquil space for pets and owners alike.
4. Bryson City’s Roadside Parks Along the town’s picturesque roads, you’ll find several small parks where dogs are welcome. These spots are ideal for a quick stop to stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh mountain air with your canine companion.

Mountain Biking

1. Tsali Recreation Area Known for its world-class mountain biking trails, Tsali Recreation Area provides a mix of challenging and leisurely rides around Fontana Lake. The trails are well-maintained and offer breathtaking views, suited for riders of all skill levels.
2. Fire Mountain Trails Located in Cherokee, these newly designed trails offer an exciting mountain biking experience with flows, jumps, and berms. The system caters to beginners and advanced riders, ensuring fun and adventure for everyone.
3. Deep Creek Trail System While known for hiking and fishing, Deep Creek also presents several trails suitable for mountain bikes. Enjoy a ride through beautiful forest landscapes, with easy to moderate trails available.
4. Nantahala National Forest Offering expansive trail networks with varying difficulties, the Nantahala National Forest is a haven for mountain bikers. Explore miles of trails that run through stunning natural landscapes and provide thrilling rides.

Swimming

1. Fontana Lake The pristine waters of Fontana Lake are ideal for cooling off on a hot summer day. With numerous access points, including public boat launches and secluded coves, you can enjoy swimming in a picturesque setting.
2. Deep Creek In addition to hiking and fishing, Deep Creek is popular for its refreshing swimming holes, especially near the waterfalls. The clear, cool waters provide a delightful escape from the heat.
3. Midnight Hole Located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Midnight Hole is a well-known swimming spot featuring deep, clear waters bordered by large boulders. It’s a bit of a hike to get there but well worth the effort for the serene and secluded setting.
4. The Pines Recreation Area Situated along Fontana Lake, this area offers a designated swimming beach with picnic facilities. The gentle waters and scenic views make it a family-friendly spot for a day by the water.

Trail Running

1. Deep Creek Loop With its moderate terrain and beautiful scenery, the Deep Creek Loop is ideal for trail running. The loop covers approximately 5 miles, taking you past waterfalls and through lush forests.
2. Tsali Trail System The Tsali Recreation Area isn’t just for biking; its trails are also great for running. The loops offer varying distances and levels of difficulty, all with stunning views of Fontana Lake and the surrounding woods.
3. Lakeshore Trail Beginning near Fontana Dam, the Lakeshore Trail extends for miles along the shore of Fontana Lake. It offers a mix of terrains, making it perfect for a challenging and scenic run.
4. Noland Creek Trail For a quieter, more secluded run, the Noland Creek Trail provides a peaceful setting. Its relatively flat terrain is excellent for runners looking to enjoy nature without the rigorous climbs.

Road Biking

1. Blue Ridge Parkway Offering some of the most stunning views in the area, the Blue Ridge Parkway is perfect for road biking. The route features challenging climbs, thrilling descents, and unparalleled scenic overlooks.
2. Cherohala Skyway Similar to the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Cherohala Skyway provides a breathtaking experience for cyclists willing to tackle its elevation changes. The Skyway stretches for miles, with scenic vistas and smooth pavement.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park Although limited, the park offers some roads suitable for biking, including the Cades Cove Loop on certain mornings when it’s closed to vehicle traffic. Enjoy a peaceful ride surrounded by nature.
4. Bryson City to Nantahala Gorge This route takes you from the heart of Bryson City to the Nantahala Gorge, offering a combination of rolling hills and flat stretches. The journey provides cyclists with picturesque views of the river and surrounding mountains.

Climbing

1. Looking Glass Rock While a bit of a drive from Bryson City, Looking Glass Rock in Pisgah National Forest offers routes for climbers of all skill levels. The rock face is iconic, visible for miles around, and the views from the top are spectacular.
2. Linville Gorge Another location within reach, Linville Gorge offers a variety of climbing routes, from bouldering to multi-pitch adventures. Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” the gorge provides climbers with both a challenge and breathtaking scenery.
3. Rumbling Bald Located near Lake Lure, Rumbling Bald is a popular climbing destination with over 1,000 boulder problems. The area requires a short hike to reach, but climbers are rewarded with numerous high-quality routes.
4. Sunset Rock Ideal for those looking for accessible climbing close to Bryson City, Sunset Rock in Highlands offers traditional climbing routes with stunning views, especially at sunset. The crag caters to intermediate and advanced climbers.

Paddling

1. Nantahala River Famous for its whitewater paddling, the Nantahala River offers eight miles of exciting rapids suitable for kayakers and rafters. With class II and III rapids, it’s perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
2. Tuckasegee River For a more laid-back paddling experience, the Tuckasegee River provides a gentle flow through beautiful mountain landscapes. The river is ideal for families and those looking for a scenic float trip.
3. Fontana Lake The calm waters of Fontana Lake are perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Explore secluded coves, fish from your boat, or simply enjoy the serene beauty of the lake.
4. Cheoah River Offering a more challenging paddling experience, the Cheoah River features class IV and V rapids. It’s an adrenaline-packed adventure for experienced paddlers seeking thrills amidst stunning natural beauty.

Surfing/Snow Sports

Given its geography, Bryson City leans more towards snow sports during the winter months.

1. Cataloochee Ski Area Located within a reasonable drive from Bryson City, Cataloochee offers a variety of slopes for skiing and snowboarding. With trails for all skill levels and a terrain park, it’s a great winter sports destination.
2. Ober Gatlinburg Offering skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing, Ober Gatlinburg is a family-friendly option with activities for everyone. The aerial tramway ride to the resort provides stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.
3. Maggie Valley Maggie Valley, home to the Cataloochee Ski Area, also offers beautiful opportunities for winter hikes and snowshoeing. The area transforms into a winter wonderland, providing outdoor enthusiasts with a peaceful escape.
4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park For cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, the higher elevations of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offer miles of trails. The snowy landscapes provide a serene and picturesque setting for winter adventures.

Embark on your adventure in Bryson City, NC, where the beauty of the Smoky Mountains and the thrill of outdoor activities combine to create unforgettable experiences for every enthusiast. Whether you’re exploring the trails, rivers, or mountain peaks, you’re sure to find an adventure that speaks to your spirit.