Max Patch
Max Patch sits next to the Tennessee state line in the Harmon Den area of Hot Springs, NC. At 4,629 feet this bald offers 360-degree vistas of Mount Mitchell to the east and Great Smoky Mountains to the southwest. An abundance of ferns and grasses blanket the bald, making it perfect for picnics. Fishing is offered at the pond past the main parking lot. Recreationists are required to have a NC Fishing license and to follow all state policies regarding fishing.
The Appalachian Trail crosses this area. For information on the Appalachian Trail visit www.appalachiantrail.org and for more information on partnerships, conservation, ecology, trails, and stewardship of Max Patch, please visit: http://www.maxpatch.org
Active Alerts
General Information
FOREST ORDER NO. 08-11-04-23-160 Effective until June 30, 2026
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 551 and 36 C.F.R. 261.50 (a) and (b), for the protection of public health and safety, the following acts are prohibited on and within the Max Patch area.
1. NO camping.
2. NO fires.
3. AREA CLOSES 1 hour after sundown. Reopens 1 hour before sunrise. Visitors prohibited during closed hours.
4. GROUP size limited to 10.
5. DOGS and other animals must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet, or in a crate or cage.
6. STAY ON designated trails.
7. AIRCRAFT may not land nor drop off or pick up anything in this area. DRONES are prohibited on Appalachian Trail.
8. NO fireworks.
9. BIKES must stay on roads only.
10. HORSES and other saddle and pack animals may not be ridden, hitched, tethered, or hobbled in this area.
Year Round
Area closes 1 hour after sundown. Reopens 1 hour before sunrise. Visitors prohibited during closed hours. Camping and fires prohibited.
Groups limited to 10 individuals
No fees associated
Address: 632 Manor Road Mars Hill, NC 28754
Phone: (828) 689-9694
Hours: (Mon-Fri) 7:30 AM-4 PM (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: appalachianrd@usda.gov
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 35.79591632
Longitude: -82.96249829
Directions
From Hot Springs take NC 209S for 7.3 miles to SR 1175. Go south on SR 1175 for 5.3 miles. Take SR 1181 about 3.5 miles to the end. Turn right on SR 1182 for 1.5 miles. Please be aware this parking lot holds approximately 11 cars. You may not park on the road if the parking lot is full. The road to Max Patch is a State Road- maintained by NC-DOT and TN-DOT.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are not available at this site.
