1st Back Country Trip

Hey Guys, I'm in the process of planning my first back country trip. Me and a couple of buddies were wondering where to go. I was thinking about Linville Gorge or South Mountain State park I go to Appalachain State so preferably I would like to stay semi close. Is there any where within 1-2 hours of Boone where we could do a 2-3 day backpacking trip? Any help will be appreciated, thanks
-talldude

When were you thinking of going? South Mountains has some decent camping along the DH stream, so that would be best in October. I think you can also hike up about a mile or so and get good campsites along the wild trout streams. Linville Gorge is definitely a two person trip. I have heard folks say they prefer a light spinning rod to bring versus a fly rod because the hike down into the Gorge is rugged. You can access the Gorge off Old Highway 105, which is off 183 in Linville Falls. Hope that helps.

Linville Gorge can be sketchy. The hike in is extremely rugged and treacherous and the fishing can be marginal, due to warm temps. Trout are present, but they're few and far between. Excellent smallmouth fishing downstream though.

Check out this list of hike-in streams.