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Siler Bald

4 Reviews

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Siler Bald, near the heart of North Carolina, is a fantastic spot for those who love backcountry camping. This place is all about the views, offering a stunning 360-degree panorama of the surrounding mountains that will take your breath away.

The camping area is pretty basic but has its charm. There are no fancy amenities here—just a large open space at the top for pitching your tent and a fire pit to gather around after a long day of hiking. As one visitor put it, “This is a classic bald where you get to the top and there are no trees around so you can see for miles.” Just remember to pack in your water, as there’s no source nearby.

Hiking is the main event here, with trails that lead you through beautiful landscapes. Some campers recommend taking a loop trail for a different perspective on your way back. The trek can be steep, so be prepared for a workout, but the payoff is worth it. The sunsets and sunrises from the peak are unforgettable experiences that many have cherished.

While Siler Bald is remote and lacks some conveniences, it’s a perfect escape for those looking to disconnect and soak in nature. Just make sure to come ready for a bit of adventure, and you’ll leave with memories that last a lifetime.

Description

US Forest Service

Nantahala National Forest

A moderate 2-mile hike climbs to the summit of Siler Bald. The view is almost 360 degrees, and you’ll catch sight of several other notable peaks like Standing Indian and Brasstown Bald.

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Location

Siler Bald is located in North Carolina

Directions

Siler Bald is north of Franklin, North Carolina off Wayah Road. You can find a gravel parking lot just after the AT trail crossing (parking lot located on the left). Some lower-to-the-ground vehicles may not clear the steep hill into the lot, so park on the roadside. The trailhead is to the left of the parking lot and leads up to the white blazes on the AT. Parking is free, and there are picnic tables just beyond the parking lot. Unfortunately, no bathroom facilities.

Coordinates

35.139361 N
83.5775 W

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Access

Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

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WiFi
Good
Verizon
Unknown
AT&T
Good
T-Mobile
Good

Site Types

Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

Pets
Fires

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

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General Info

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Drive Time

1 hr 23 min from Asheville
1 hr 35 min from Gainesville
2 hrs 34 min from Knoxville

Asher K.

Legend

Reviewed Oct. 1, 2023

Amazing camping and great trails

Updated photos from my most recent visit to this beautiful backcountry campsite. I took a different route hiking back this time that made it a loop and I would highly recommend it. Just head to the right when you get to the bottom of the bald where the trail splits and follow it around the mountain staying left at each fork. It joins the forestry road at one point.

(9) View All

Asher K.

Legend

Reviewed Oct. 1, 2022

Update

Updated photos from my most recent visit to this beautiful backcountry campsite. Took a different route hiking back this time that made it a loop and would highly recommend.

(18) View All

Asher K.

Legend

Reviewed Sep. 1, 2018

Another amazing peak

This is a classic bald where you get to the top and there are no trees around so you can see for miles. This also makes for great open space to set up a tent. There are several spots along the way up to the bald that you could camp but be aware that there is really no water so fill up before you leave. You can also continue along the trail a little further to get to a shelter but I would suggest camping on top since there is also a nice firepit. Remember it can get cold here at night though!

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Asher K.

Legend

Reviewed Oct. 1, 2017

AMAZING Views

Ill start off by saying this peak is one of my favorites in the area since it provides 360 degree views of the mountains and is totally clear on top. We have done the hike several times to see sunrise from the top or finished up a day with a sunset view. In terms of the campground there is a nice large space up at the top and also a smaller area halfway up to the peak that are good for setting up tents. Neither spots have organized fire pits and there is no great water source near the camping. But its still worth it to fill up in advance and camp here since the view is worth it. The hike can be pretty steep at points so be prepared and of course this is only a backpacking site. There are bathroom and water fillup at the parking/trailhead so take advantage of that. Overall this is a place to check out any time of the year and is one of my favorites in the area.