Most everyone who comes to western North Carolina has heard of the Nantahala, but few know its history. Long before it was a mecca for rafters and thrill seekers, it was traveled by naturalists and explorers from William Bartram to John C. Frémont. After the Cherokees were driven out, settlers arrived and began exporting the wealth of the mountains in the form of timber, talc and minerals. Tourists arrived on the Western Turnpike soon after, and the railroad brought more around 1890. The federal government began purchasing land for the new Nantahala National Forest, and the need for aluminum to fight World War II precipitated the construction of Fontana Lake and Nantahala Lake. Local author Lance Holland has crafted an enlightening and entertaining narrative history of this unique region.

Most everyone who comes to western North Carolina has heard of the Nantahala, but few know its history. Long before it was a mecca for rafters and thrill seekers, it was traveled by naturalists and explorers from William Bartram to John C. Fr mont. After

The ultimate guide to paddling whitewater in the Carolinas, Carolina Whitewater has guided paddlers to the best creeks and rivers in the Tar Heel and Palmetto states for over 30 years. Detailed creek and river profiles include; Topographic-based maps Shuttle directions Gauge locations Kayakers and canoeists will find expanded and updated information for the classic rivers, like the Nolichucky, Nantahala, and French Broad, as well as for several new steep runs, such as Rock house Creek, Hurricane Creek, the Gragg Prong, and Big Hungry River. You'll also get vital information on clubs and organizations, state water trails, and national and scenic rivers. Waterway data for each run includes; Class of difficulty Length of the run Time to paddle Water level needed to paddle Permits required (if any) Gradient of each run Ratings for scenery.

Whether you're just setting out for a day hike or are planning to trek all the way from Maine to Georgia, Backpacker Magazine's Guide to the Appalachian Trail is the definitive guide to the most famous footpath in the nation. This updated edition provides detailed descriptions of what terrain hikers can expect to find in any given section, along with information on local natural history and nearby towns and landmarks. Chapters on the geology of the trail and the history of its creation complete the picture, ensuring that this will continue to be a well-worn resource for countless hikers.

From The Chattooga to the Nantahala, the thrilling rapids and unparalleled scenery of Western North Carolina's rivers attract thousands of whitewater paddlers each year. Author and paddling instructor Will Leverette grew up in and around canoes. His grandfather, Frank "Chief " Bell, helped to popularize the sport through Camp Mondamin, the country's premier summer camp for paddling. Ride along with Leverette as he recounts the exhilarating adventures of paddling's pioneers from 1923 to 1980, both those who started the craze and those who guided it farther downstream.

How the experts do it.

With Explorer’s Guides, expert authors and helpful icons make it easy to locate places of extra value, family-friendly activities, and excellent restaurants and lodgings. Regional and city maps help you get around and What’s Where provides a quick reference on everything from tourist attractions to off-the-beaten-track sites. From America’s most popular national parks to the sands of the Outer Banks to the cool peaks of the tallest mountains in the East, writer/photographer Jim Hargan covers everything worth seeing and doing in his home state. Explore wilderness areas on bicycle or by kayak, visit sleepy hamlets or lively downtowns, enjoy fine dining or country cooking on your quest for the authentic Tarheel experience.

All the wisdom of "The New York Times" experts in every field is packed into one comprehensive volume that has been completely revised and updated. Illustrations throughout.

Insiders' Guide to North Carolina's Mountains is the essential source for in-depth travel and relocation information to the region that includes Asheville, Biltmore Estate, Cherokee, Blue Ridge Parkway, and other nearby environs. Written by a local (and true insider), this guide offers a personal and practical perspective of the area and its surrounding environs.