Experience the Southern Appalachians

Well within a day’s drive for millions of Americans, the Southern Appalachians region is an magnet for wilderness lovers and outdoor recreationists.

Paddlers can rip through the rapids on the Nantahala River. Hikers and equestrians can get out into more than a dozen designated wilderness areas. Mountain bikers can ride some of the best trails in the east in the legendary Pisgah National Forest.

Things to do

Like a walk through wildflower jungles? Or fly fishing in a crystal clear mountain stream? There are a wealth of outdoor opportunities in the Southern Appalachians region.

Where to go

With so many options for outdoor adventure, it can be hard to choose where to go. We have a few forests in mind for your next adventure in the Southern Appalachians region.

When to go

Whether you're chasing fall foliage, hunting for spring wildflowers or seeking out a cool forest to avoid the heat of summer, we've got tips on when to visit the Southern Appalachians region.

  • Dear Representative Gosar:

    On behalf of the National Association of Counties (NACo), I am writing to express our support of the Public Lands Renewable Energy Development Act (H.R. 596). This landmark legislation would extend royalties and lease income from solar and wind projects developed on Federal lands to home states and counties.

  • Dear Representative Gosar:

    We are writing to express our support for sharing with states and counties renewable energy royalty revenues from federal lands. The language contained in the Public Lands Renewable Energy Development Act (HR 596) which you have introduced in the House would enact such revenue sharing.

  • Outdoor Alliance, a coalition of six national, member-based organizations, including Access Fund, American Canoe Association, American Hiking Society, American Whitewater, International Mountain Bicycling Association, and Winter Wildlands Alliance, represents the interests of the millions of Americans who hike, paddle, climb, mountain bike, and backcountry ski on our nation’s public lands, waters, and snowscapes. Collectively, Outdoor Alliance has members in all fifty states and a network of nearly 1,400 local clubs and advocacy groups across the nation.