Camp on Shortoff Mountain in the Linville Gorge

Morganton, NC
5.0
4 Reviews
Camp on Shortoff Mountain in the Linville Gorge
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Added by Samuel Martin

Camp out in one of the most rugged gorges in North America. No need for a permit if you're camping outside of the summer. Take in views of Lake James and the Gorge as you hike to your campsite. Duration: Overnight.

The Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, also known as the Grand Canyon of the East, is one of the wildest, most rugged gorges in the eastern United States. It's also an outdoor paradise for hikers and backpackers. Camping here is always a treat and you are sure to enjoy your time spent in the gorge.

During peak seasons, May 1st- October 31st, you must obtain a permit to camp in the gorge. However, because this is a wilderness area, camping is allowed year round.

On this particular trip, our group arrived at the trail head (Wolf Pit Rd) in mid December and started out toward our campsite on Shortoff Mountain. Along this hike you will have incredible views of Lake James and beyond as well as a view of the gorge that will take your breath away. This hike is moderately strenuous. Once on the ridgeline you will have multiple campsites to choose from, some right on the gorge rim and some farther back in the wood line.

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
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Shayne MacKinnon
2/6/2018
Wolf Pit Rd Access to Shortoff Mountain Trailhead
We are residents of the community at Shortoff Mountain and Wolf Pit has become almost impassable due to lack of maintenance. We are gathering ...
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Jay Bowser
1/14/2018
Fantastic Night In The Gorge
Decided to try camping in the middle of January while a winter storm was approaching, and discovered Shortoff while growing the Outbound app- it ...
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Joshua Kent
9/23/2017
Bad directions but a good time
Did this trip last night and Im already planning my second one back. absolutely beautiful
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Dave Thomas
4/5/2016
Short Hike To Great Overnight Spots With A View
The "road" in is an unmarked, one lane, gravel ordeal so potholed it will make your car rock like it's in a Jeep commercial. ...
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