Often called the “Yosemite of the East”

Friends of Panthertown Protects & Maintains Panthertown Valley

Panthertown Valley is a treasured 6,311-acre backcountry recreation area located on Nantahala National Forest in western North Carolina, on the eastern continental divide, between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains. ➡️

Visitor’s Guide

Tips and suggestions to make your visit more enjoyable. Everyone is welcome in Panthertown.
Check our Visitor’s Guide.

Popular Activities

Hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, rock climbers, anglers, kayakers, birders, backpackers, scouts, and many more enjoy visiting.

Trail System Info

Friends of Panthertown maintains 30 miles of public non-motorized trails in Panthertown Valley. Panthertown Trail System

Panthertown features a diversity of flora and fauna, headwaters of the Tuckasegee River, a rare high-elevation Appalachian mountain bog, dozens of waterfalls, and is part of the Bonas Defeat-Panthertown American Black Bear Sanctuary. ➡️

What Our Organization Does

Recreation

We improve the quality and experience of recreational opportunities available in Panthertown.

Conservation

We conserve, monitor, and help protect the many natural resources that make up this special place.

Stewardship

We encourage stewardship of the forest through community partnerships, outreach, and education.

Friends of Panthertown works in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, Leave No Trace, National Wilderness Stewardship Alliance, American Trails, American Hiking Society, Boys & Girls Club, Mainspring Conservation Trust, and many others. ➡️

How You Can Help