(more info about the NC Wildlife Resources Commission rule changes and our objections)
Bear-Resistant Containers NOW REQUIRED for overnight camping in Panthertown Valley
Often called the “Yosemite of the East”
Friends of Panthertown Protects & Maintains Panthertown Valley
Panthertown Valley is a treasured 6,311-acre backcountry area & bear sanctuary featuring more than 30 miles of public trails located on Nantahala National Forest in Western North Carolina, on the Eastern Continental Divide, between the Great Smokies & 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 the Panthertown Valley Trail System.
Panthertown is protected as part of the Panthertown-Bonas Defeat Bear Sanctuary, Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail, and Blue Ridge National Heritage Area. It features a diversity of native flora and fauna, granite cliffs and domes, the pristine headwaters of the Tuckasegee River, a rare high-elevation southern Appalachian mountain bog, and dozens of waterfalls. ➡️
What Our Organization Does
Conservation
We conserve, monitor, and help protect the many natural resources that make up this special place.
Recreation
We improve the quality and experience of recreational opportunities available in Panthertown.
Stewardship
We encourage stewardship of the forest through community partnerships, outreach, and education.
Friends of Panthertown works in partnership with 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
Volunteer
Our volunteers are the heart of our organization. We invite you to become one today! All welcome.
Leave No Trace
Leave No Trace when you visit Panthertown. Help us keep this place wild and natural for all to enjoy.
Donate
Your tax-deductible gift will support our work to protect and maintain Panthertown for everyone. Thank you!
The Leave No Trace Seven Principles
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors
© Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics: www.LNT.org
DONATE TO THE PANTHERTOWN STEWARDSHIP FUND
Read our objections to the Forest Plan (March 2022)
FOR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION: CONTACT YOUR LEGISLATORS AND TELL THEM YOU WANT TO PROTECT THE BEARS FROM BEING HUNTED AND KEEP PANTHERTOWN A BEAR SANCTUARY!
Legislators have until June 4, National Black Bear Day, to file a bill specifically against the NCWRC rule changes to open up Panthertown to bear hunting.
Let them hear from YOU.
(more info about the NC Wildlife Resources Commission rule changes and our objections)