What could be more enchanting than a virgin forest named after a poet with a poem titled “Trees”? Deep within the Nantahala Forest in Western North Carolina lies a 3,800-acre tract of land with trees that have never been logged in the history of the U.S. This rare spot has one of the largest contiguous tracts of virgin forest east of the Mississippi. The giant trees and lush scenery make it like something out of a storybook.
The experience could even go beyond storybook status. A hike through the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest near Robbinsville may feel like you’re in a sequel to the movie “Honey, I Shrunk The Kids.”
TripAdvisor/drmomaa
And while we know that’s not exactly a storybook, it is fantastically similar to being inside this ancient forest where much of what you see is bigger than life.
Flickr/E
Here is a look at some of the massive yellow poplar trees you’ll encounter throughout the forest. You should be prepared to walk around in amazement and awe of the sheer size of it all! Some of the trees here are believed to be at least 400 years old. Many are more than 100-feet tall.
Flickr/Steve
The forest is such a unique experience compared to other hikes you’ll find in North Carolina. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself looking UP, nearly as much as you’re looking down and all around!
alltrails.com/Roman Obrasek
Indeed, there is much enchantment to be found in the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest. And many photo-worthy moments are ahead for you and your family on this fun adventure.
TripAdvisor/myfloridalife
Just take a close look at the intertwined root systems of these two rather large trees. There are rocks nearly the size of small boulders that are INSIDE the roots. Amazing!
alltrails.com/E MED
The natural beauty found along the two-mile loop around this forest is astounding.
TripAdvisor/myfloridalife
From the many easy-to-follow pathways…
Flickr/Doug Bradley
to bridges that seem plucked from the pages of the “Lord of the Rings…”
TripAdvisor/Alisson B
and a creek bed filled with moss-covered rocks and small boulders…
Wikimedia Commons/John K Clark
you’re certain to love every second spent exploring this ancient forest and all of the magnificent discoveries (and memories) you’ll make here.
alltrails.com/Leslie Rust
The Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest is located at 5410 Joyce Kilmer Rd., Robbinsville, NC 28771.
Flickr/Buddah Dog The forest is open year-round, and there are picnic tables and public restrooms at the entrance. Learn more here.
Can’t get enough of the great outdoors in North Carolina? Here are 10 easy hikes under three miles in the Tar Heel State that everyone will love!
TripAdvisor/drmomaa
Flickr/E
Flickr/Steve
alltrails.com/Roman Obrasek
TripAdvisor/myfloridalife
alltrails.com/E MED
Flickr/Doug Bradley
TripAdvisor/Alisson B
Wikimedia Commons/John K Clark
alltrails.com/Leslie Rust
Flickr/Buddah Dog
The forest is open year-round, and there are picnic tables and public restrooms at the entrance. Learn more here.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: 5410 Joyce Kilmer Rd., Robbinsville, NC 28771
