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 Reporter |
Summary: The trail begins as an old logger trail that was also once used as a road for a shuttle bus that would carry people up to the top of the lookout point. Follow this leisure stroll to the top. Once you arrive, you will see fantastic 210 degree view. Overlooking the cliffs keep a sharp eye for the peregrine falcons. These amazing birds will captivate you as you watch them soar through the air. I have found the best place to watch them will actually be once you follow the trail to the right about another 300 feet. They nest in the cliffs. A lot of hikers think that this trail is the end and begin to hike back down the road, but be sure to continue to the right (south/southwest). The overlooks you will find along the way will give you amazing views of the 750 feet drop offs. About a ½ of mile walking along the cliffs, you will begin a descent that will complete the circle. Remember on this hike to please do not cross the barriers. They are there for your protection. Trailhead: From Hendersonville NC take 64 West. Go 17 miles to Pisgah Forest (Entrance of Pisgah National Forest. US64 W turns right- continue on US64. Go another 31 miles through Cashiers., NC. 5 miles from Cashiers turn left onto Whiteside Mountain Rd (NC1680). Go exactly 1 mile and the parking area will be on the left. (Lat:35.07919 Lon:-83.14244) Trail Guides for Whiteside Mountain Trail: Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Nantahala National Forest828-526-3765 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Reginald Vickers, who has posted 2 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by eas on 10/9/2008 This is such an amazing hike. You can go up old road for an easier climb or the 'right side' for a better work out. My dog and I use to go up whiteside everytime we were in NC. He would always get to the 1st vista/viewing area and just sit there looking out at the amazing scenery till I caught up. Such a beautiful hike.
Reviewed by Mark & Adam & B on 1/19/2008 Didnt know trails like this existed so near Atlanta......Easy trail.....5 star views.....one is better than the next....scenic every 50 ft. We will be back. 
Reviewed by KBB on 1/12/2008 SUPER
Reviewed by TJA on 11/6/2007 Beautiful Trail. The views from the side of the mountain are absolutely amazing. We took the wide path up the mountain and came down the stairs. A hiking pole is a good idea because there are a few tricky spots. This is a great trail for when the leaves are changing.
Reviewed by Del M on 6/10/2007 Hiked on 8 Jul 2007 (age 69)- This is a very well maintained trail. Fantastic photo ops at the top and all along the way. The views are outstanding. Several interesting information markers along the way. Good workout if you take the steps to right otherwise, it is a very easy hike it you select the wide path up. Only thing missing, I didn't see the Peregrine Falcons
Reviewed by mw on 2/28/2007 I highly recomment it. The moderate hike up the right side will get your heart going, only to have your breath taken away from the awesome view to the south and east into Northern Georgia. mw
Reviewed by KMH on 12/18/2006 Whiteside Mountain is a magical place with lots of history behind it. If you find your way to Devils Courthouse you will have an almost 360 view and a mysterious Spanish inscription on the rock face. There is a geocash box there as well...if you can find it. I have spent many a hour there reading and relaxing. The loop from the parking lot to the courthouse, to the old loggers road, along the ridge, and down the old steps is about 4 miles. I LOVE this mountain.
Reviewed by CHN on 9/25/2006 Great, easy hike for anyone of any level of hiker. The only difficult thing is trying to find the right time to go up there. You can catch it when you look out and all you see if fog or you can hike up there and be able to see for miles and miles. Just depends on the season and the weather. I would recommend it to anyone of all ages. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: North Carolina Hiking, North Carolina Trails, North Carolina Hikes, Jackson County Hiking, Jackson County Trails, Jackson County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
