How did Harmons Den get its name?

The origin of Harmon Den varies, but the prevailing story suggests it derives from Harmon Teaster, a hard-working logger, husband, and father of 10 children. Legend has it that Harmon ran afoul of the law and hid out in a mountain cave for several years.

What is in Harmon Den NC?

Harmon Den is on the Appalachian Ranger District in the vicinity of exit 7 off of I-40. The area is a haven for hikers and horseback riders. It offers 54.5 miles of trails with 14.2 miles of trails designated for horseback riding and 40.3 miles for hiking.

Is Max Patch in North Carolina or Tennessee?

Hike the Appalachian Trail at Max Patch, one of North Carolina’s most popular AT hikes, on a grassy, bald mountain that’s covered in wildflowers. Catch a gorgeous sunrise, sunset or afternoon picnic on this moderate two mile loop with stunning 360-degree views and seemingly endless sunshine.

Where is Max Patch on the Appalachian Trail?

At the top of the mountain, turn right onto State Road 1182 and Max Patch parking is 3 miles. Directions via I-40 from Lake Junaluska: Exit #24 and follow NC 209 North about 8 miles to Fines Creek General Store. Continue straight about 12 miles onto Max Patch Road. The last 8 miles are unpaved and curvy.

What town is close to Max Patch?

4,600+ Bald Mountain Max Patch is a 4,629-foot tall bald mountain with an incredible 360-degree mountain vista just 20 miles from Hot Springs.

How long does it take to get to the top of Max Patch?

3 hours and 30 minutes

Length	Difficulty	Streams
7.1 mls		N/A
Hiking Time: Elev. Gain: Resources:	3 hours and 30 minutes with 45 minutes of breaks 2,061 ft Topo Hike Trails Map (PDF) Waterville, NC Weather Forecast Garmin (GDB), Gaia/Trails App (GPX) (What’s this?) 3D View of Route

Is there a bathroom at Max Patch?

He said this might serve in two ways – to let people know there is no bathroom at Max Patch and to rethink their destination – maybe they don’t want to go somewhere without a bathroom. He said limiting summit camping while letting people know of other places to camp is also under consideration, he said.

Can you drive to top of Max Patch?

You can drive close to the summit on the gravel SR 1182, which is popular but sometimes difficult to reach during the winter after snowfall. You’ll also never be alone using this option, it is common to see more than one hundred people at the top.

Is it legal to camp on Max Patch?

Camping at Max Patch is known as dispersed camping, where the following additional rules apply: Camp at least ¼ mile from trailhead, 200 feet from any water source and ¼ mile away from any developed recreation area, which includes the Appalachian Trail. Keep campfires small, confined and always attended.

Can you camp on top of Max Patch?

261.50 (a) and (b), for the protection of public health and safety, the following acts are prohibited on and within the Max Patch area. 1. NO camping.

Why is Max Patch closed?

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — On Thursday, the U.S. Forest Service announced it is closing Max Patch to camping for two years due to chronic overuse and littering problems at the well-known bald.

What is Harmon den?

Between the Gorge and the well-known Max Patch is a lesser-used area (with perhaps an equally enigmatic name) known as Harmon Den, accessible off of exit 7 on I-40. It contains quite a few more hiking trails and attractions to explore.

Is Harmon Den a good place to hike?

Any hike is better than hanging around the house, longing to be on the trail. Harmon Den has an abundance of native orchids, and we had previously seen the distinctive leaves of the Pink Lady’s Slipper when we last hiked in this area.

Is there a horse camping area in Harmon den?

There is a reservation-only horse group camping area along Cold Springs Creek. While several miles of hiking-only trails can be found in Harmon Den, all of the horse trails are also open to hikers.

How do I find the current status of the Harmon den?

Please contact local offices by phone or email to find the current status and how to get the services and information you need. Harmon Den is on the Appalachian Ranger District in the vicinity of exit 7 off of I-40. The area is a haven for hikers and horseback riders.