Are you looking for a few things to make your trip to the 2013 World Championships complete? Here are 5 things you should definitely check out while you’re in the Nantahala Gorge.
1. Hike Along the Famous Appalachian Trail.
The 2,180 mile long trail spanning from Spring Mountain, Georgia to Mount Katahdin, Maine goes right over the Founders Bridge at the Nantahala Outdoor Center. If you’re looking for a quick hike, head up to the Rufus Morgan Shelter. It’s a short 1.6 mile hike Southbond from the N.O.C.
2. Enjoy a North Carolina Craft Beer.
If you’re a beer fanatic you’ll love it here. North Carolina has the largest number of craft breweries in the South, with more than 70 breweries. It is also the most decorated state in the South with more medals from the World Beer Cup and the Great American Beer Festival than any of its neighboring states. Better yet, Nantahala Brewing Company is right in downtown Bryson City. They’ll also be hosting live music every night during the world championships.
3. Ride One of the U.S. Top 10 Biking Destinations.
Tsali Recreation Area is just up the road from the Nantahala Gorge and has been named one of the top 10 places to ride in the United States. Tsali features over 40 miles of mountain biking trails. It’s trails feature some of the best views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Visit here for more trail information.
4. Fish a Top 100 Trout Stream.
Aside from having a world class freestyle kayaking feature the Nantahala River has been named a top 10 trout stream in North Carolina by North Carolina Game and Fish. It has also been recognized as a top 100 trout stream by Trout Unlimited. If you’re in to fishing for trout, it’d be a shame to miss out on the Nantahala.
5. See the Mountains by Train.
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers multiple different railroad excursions throughout the Smokies. The train departs in downtown Bryson City. With 53 miles of track, two tunnels and 25 bridges, taking a train adventure is surely something you wont want to miss.