Hike Ledbetter Creek

Rate this Adventure North Carolina › Ledbetter Creek

Save List Review

139 Saves

Added by Bradley Burgess

Ledbetter Creek may be the Nantahala Gorge's best keep secret. With its many cascading waterfalls and lush flora it's a scene straight out of a tropical paradise. Hike as little or as much as you'd like.

Leaving the Nantahala Outdoor Center, drive upriver for 6.5 miles until you see a pull off on the right. Walk past the picnic tables, cross the railroad tracks, then follow the trail to arrive at the creek. Once you're there, it's up to you on what to do next.

One of the most popular activities here is to follow the creek up and marvel at the numerous cascades and waterfalls. The cool water feels great on a warm summer afternoon. Looking for something more relaxing? No problem. Find a spot by the creek and string up your hammock!

If you decide you don't want to leave, you're covered there as well: two primitive campsites are located right by the creek. And if you're feeling really adventurous, the Bartram Trail crosses the creek and climbs up to Cheoah Bald on the Appalachian Trail. It's a steep, difficult climb of over 6 miles with 3,000' elevation gain, but the views from the top are superb.

Pack List

Water shoes or sandals
Camera
Hammock
Camp chair

Please respect the places you find on The Outbound.

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures. Be aware of local regulations and don't damage these amazing places for the sake of a photograph. Learn More

Activities:

Chillin, Photography, Hiking

Skill Level:

Beginner

Season:

Year Round

Rating:

Rate this Adventure

Features:

Scenic

Waterfall

Are we missing something?

Suggest an edit

How to Get There

Get driving directions

Reviews

Leave a Review

Have you done this adventure? Have something to add? You could be the first to leave a review!

Added by Bradley Burgess

More Adventures Nearby

Hike the Trombatore Trail to Blue Ridge Pastures

North Carolina / Trombatore Trailhead

Park along the road at Bearwallow Gap - this is also the parking area for Bearwallow Mountain.

Kat Dellinger

11 Saves

Hike along Basin Creek in Doughton Park

North Carolina / Basin Creek Trailhead

A treasure in North Carolina that doesn't get as much attention as it should, Doughton Park has some of the best trails around.

Kat Dellinger

8 Saves

Hike the Elk Knob Summit Trail

North Carolina / Elk Knob State Park

There are no bathrooms at the trailhead, so if needed, drive a little past it to the park bathrooms on the left. Park at the summit trailhead and start your hike on the new gravel path.

Kat Dellinger

5 Saves