Appalachian Trail — Simp Gap

The Appalachian Trail from Stecoah Gap to Cheoah Bald is a relentless uphill journey through the Nantahala National Forest, culminating in some of the most spectacular views in Western North Carolina. You'll push through forested paths, navigating steep, rocky, and root-filled terrain, with the promise of a treeless grassy summit at Cheoah Bald offering 360-degree vistas of the Nantahala Gorge and the Great Smoky Mountains. This difficult 11.2-mile (18.0 km) hike, with its 2558 feet (780 metres) of elevation gain, is a true test of endurance, typically taking around 7 hours and 16 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit requires some foresight, as parking at Stecoah Gap can be limited, so an early start is often a good idea. This section of the AT is known for its significant elevation changes, including challenging spots like "Jacob's Ladder," a steep 600-foot gain over 0.6 miles. Be prepared for strenuous conditions, and consider avoiding colder months when ice and snow can make the trail extremely slippery and increase the difficulty.

Cheoah Bald, standing at 5,062 feet, is a prominent peak and a major highlight, also serving as the northern terminus of the Bartram Trail. While much of the hike is through dense forest, the summit's expansive views make the effort worthwhile. This section is considered one of the toughest on the Appalachian Trail outside of New Hampshire's White Mountains, making it a notable achievement for any hiker.