Marion, North Carolina

Camp in the Linville Gorge via the Pinch In Trail

1.5 Miles Total - Out-and-Back Trail

Originally added by Mason Boring

Get out in the backcountry of the Linville Gorge - the Grand Canyon of the East. This 1.5 mile trail is pretty steep, decreasing 2,000 feet in less than a mile. Pack light to prepare for the tough climb out. Duration: Overnight.

We are pretty notorious for passing up a good campsite but we are learning our lessons. We got a late but interesting start on Pinch-In trail. We climbed down a steep 600+ feet after passing this ledge only to climb right back to it a third of a mile in. If we come up to an awesome spot, we sometimes think there's always a better place just down the trail. Look what's in front of you and know it's just right.

Bring your headlamp, camera, and some good company for this sweet spot deep in the Grand Canyon of North Carolina!

For bonus points, make camp here. Hike on down Pinch In to the river in the morning after catching sunrise from camp. Take a dip and follow the river up stream and take a left up to Babel Tower. We met some cool cats day hiking in at the Tower. Just be ready for a good scramble and some killer views!