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 Reporter |
Summary: Start the trail off of SR 464 and descend on the Mountain-to-the-Sea Trail until it intersects North Harper Creek. Turn left (East) and follow the nicely wooded trail through open campsites, unnamed waterfalls and steep walled canyons until intersecting with South Harper Creek. Caution: your hike time will vary greatly depending on how long it takes you cross the North and South Harper Creeks. You will have to cross the creek at least 10 times and rock hopping is not advisable. Plan on getting wet to at least up to you knees at some crossings. Turn right on South Harper Creek and ascend to the top of the creek to view South Harper Creek Falls. Use extreme caution here, since the drop is over 200 feet and the top of the falls can be slippery. Cross the creek about 50 yards above the falls and continue to head East on the white marked trail blazes. Eventually join Raider Camp Creek Trail and continue east to the parking area on SR 1328 (1.3 miles south of Mortimer). Trailhead: Take Hwy 181 North out of Morganton. At the Blue Ridge Parkway, go north about 1 mile and turn right on SR 1518 and drive approx. 1.5 miles. At SR 464 turn right and drive approx. 5.2 miles. This is the start of the trail. There is an open area w/a sign that reads "Short-cut to North Harper Creek". (Lat:36 Lon:-81.48) Trail Guides for South Harper Creek Trail: North Carolina Hiking Trails by Allen de Hart (Appalachian Mountain Club Books) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: US Forest Service, Nebo, NC 828-652-2144 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Tom Duchac, who has posted 26 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by jtt on 10/23/2007 this entire area is a hiker, photographer, or fly-fisherman's paradise. Be advised - some trails are ill marked, and a plethora of side trails have been created by game, fishermen, and those looking for alternate creek crossings. GET A MAP. Take your time and keep a compass handy. These trails are generally good to do in Tevas or similar water shoes, as there are lots of crossings. If the water is not too high, you can cross most places in a good waterproof pair of boots with gaiters if you are quick about it. However, if you're not real sure-footed, either strip your feet down, or plan on getting wet. This is fun in the summer, not so much when it's cold. Lots of rhododendron. Not a lot of long-range views or clearings. 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, Burke County Hiking, Burke County Trails, Burke County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
