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 native flora and fauna, pristine headwaters of the Tuckasegee River, a rare high-elevation southern Appalachian mountain bog, dozens of waterfalls, granite cliffs and domes, and is part of Blue Ridge National Heritage Area, and 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
Leave No Trace
Leave No Trace when you visit Panthertown. Help us keep this place wild and natural for all to enjoy.
Volunteer
Our volunteers are the heart of our organization. We invite you to become one today! All welcome.
Donate
Your tax-deductible gift will help us protect and maintain Panthertown for everyone. Thank you!
The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace
- 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
© 1999 by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics: www.LNT.org
