Outdoor Science and Learning
Learn about the ecology and history of the National Forests through interpretive trails, visitor centers and discovery centers.
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Cloudland TR 1000
Site Temporarily Closed
3/19/2024- Roan Mountain Recreation Area will undergo a major renovation this summer, funded by the Great American Outdoors Act. The Recreation Area will be closed during the repairs.The area to be…
Colbert Ridge TR 178
Site Temporarily Closed
On clear days the trail has great views of Table Rock, Grandfather and Roan mountains. The trail ascends gently for the first half mile and then climbs steeply toward the terminus at Deep Gap with…
Cradle of Forestry
Site Open
Nestled below the Blue Ridge Parkway on the Pisgah National Forest is the birthplace of forestry in America - the Cradle of Forestry.The Cradle abounds with ways to have fun while learning about the…
Croatan National Forest
Site Open
Welcome to the Croatan National Forest, one of four National Forests in North Carolina and the only true coastal forest in the East. The Croatan National Forest's 160,000 acres have pine forests,…
Cullasaja Gorge
Site Open
Cullasaja Gorge is located along 64 between Franklin and Highlands, NC. The gorge is 7.5 miles of the Mountain Scenic By-way. This narrow, winding road parallels the Cullasaja River and offers…
Davidson River Recreation Area
Site Open
Davidson River Recreation Area offers camping and outdoor activities for the whole family. The campground boasts several loops of shaded campsites, as well as access to hiking trails, fishing spots,…
Devil's Den Nature TR 192
This short trail is located at Black Mountain Campground and passes through beautiful stands of poplar, oaks and by some magnificent boulders.Total Length: 0.7 mileTotal Elevation Change: 170…
Douglas Falls Trail
The trail leads to a 70 foot high waterfall and has multiple access points.Total Length: 0.5 mile to 2.7 milesTotal Elevation Change: up to 1,200 feetDegree of Difficulty: Easy to ModerateBeginning…
Dry Falls
Site Open
Dry Falls is located along the Mountain Scenic By-Way (Hwy 64 between Franklin and Highlands) in the Cullasaja Gorge. Dry Falls is a 75-foot waterfall. From the parking area venture out the…
Elk Falls Area-Elk River Falls (Big Falls)
Site Open
There is a rocky walkway access (.5 mile) to a popular scenic spot that has a 65 foot high waterfall along the Elk River. It begins at the Elk Park parking lot and ends at Big Falls.Average walking…