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 Reporter |
Summary: Gorges State Park is one of North Carolina's newest state parks, and the property was recently purchased by the state from Duke Energy Corporation. The transaction created a 2,900-acre gameland managed by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission and a 7,100-acre state park with plunging waterfalls, rugged river gorges, sheer rock walls and one of the greatest concentrations of rare and unique species in the eastern United States. The hike to Bearwallow Falls is a moderate one that terminates at a large viewing platform that overlooks Bearwallow Creek. Trailhead: PARKING: (NC 281) - Gorges State Park is located in Transylvania County and joins the North Carolina/South Carolina state line. The park is approximately 45 miles southwest of Asheville, and the interim park office is located in the same building as the Sapphire Post Office on US 64, just east of NC 281 South. From Atlanta, we took I-85 to SC 11 and followed it for 32.1 miles to SC 130. From there, turn left onto SC 130 and follow it for 10.3 miles. SC 130 crosses the South Carolina/North Carolina state line and becomes NC 281 near Whitewater Falls. At the border continue another 8.3 miles to the parking area on NC 281. You will turn right into a gravel parking area (which is currently a temporary lot.) The Gorges State Park trailhead is located just off NC 281, but a permanent facility is under construction (and may be complete upon your arrival.) The temporary parking area is marked with trail signs, and has portable toilets and a picnic area. The ranger t (Lat:35.06 Lon:-82.57) Trail Guides for Bearwallow Falls: Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Gorges State Park, (828) 966-9099 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by BirdShooter, who has posted 10 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Ken K. on 7/19/2004 The hike is not a chalenge if that is what your are looking for. My 4 and 5 year old grandchildren (and I!)made it with out a complaint. It is a good way to spend a few pleant hours. The trail is well maintained.
Reviewed by BirdShooter on 4/27/2004 For more photos and a five page trip report on this destination, follow this link: http://www.n2backpacking.com/destinations/north_carolina/gorges/bearwallow%20falls%204_04D.htm 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, Transylvania County Hiking, Transylvania County Trails, Transylvania County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||