Delve into the Appalachian wilderness.

Soak up winding trails, bluffs, and incredible views.

The Linville Gorge Wilderness Area spans more than 12,000 acres and is characterized by its steep cliffs that plummet thousands of feet down to the winding Linville River. Frequently referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” this area boasts an array of distinct rock formations, age-old Appalachian forests, and diverse wildlife.

Linville Gorge Map
Chris in Linville Gorge

An Area With Unique Geological History

The towering cliffs of Linville Gorge gently cradle the 12-mile stretch of the Linville River. Born from Grandfather Mountain, the river makes a spectacular debut into the gorge at the breathtaking Linville Falls, then plunges over 2,000 feet before making its way to Lake James through Catawba Valley. The Cherokee tribe fittingly named it “Eeseeoh,” meaning “river of many cliffs” – a testament to its countless vertical rock formations.

Due to its rugged landscape that kept early-20th-century clear-cutting at bay, Linville Gorge boasts some of southern Appalachians’ most pristine and untouched forests.

Our part? We enable you to experience this magic.

We provide:

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Provisioning

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Camp Necessities

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Wilderness Guides

All You Need to Bring

  • Duffle Bag
  • Small Day pack
  • *Sleeping bag (should be rated to keep you warm to a temperature of 20°F, such as this one)
  • *Ground Pad (sleeping pad (Foam or Inflatable) that will insulate you from the cold ground (such as this one or this one)
  • Headlamp/Flashlight (with new batteries)
  • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, etc.)
  • Menstrual Supplies
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Water Bottles (at least two, one Nalgene/Hydroflask plus Camelback/Platypus work well)
  • Brimmed Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen (minimum rating of 30 SPF)
  • If needed Special First Aid supplies and medications according to your specific needs
  • Trekking Poles (such as this one)
  • Yoga Mat
  • Camping Pillow (such as this one)

While we are on trips our levels of exertion change and so does the temperature. For this reason we suggest you use a layering system with your clothing. Start with a light layer. Then add more layers as it gets colder. The layers vary from 1 to 4 or 5 with the last layer being a waterproof layer which also keeps the wind out. You must always be prepared for rain or bad weather.

  • Pair of hiking boots/shoes AND 1 comfy pair of shoes for around camp
  • 3 Sets of Socks (1 liner pair and 1 heavy pair = 1 set)
  • Underwear for the trip
  • 2 Shirts (1 Short Sleeve and 1 Long Sleeve. At least 1 synthetic/cotton 50/50 blend or all synthetic)
  • Pair of long pants for hiking (preferably quick dry nylon or other synthetic material)
  • Pair of shorts for hiking
  • 1-2, medium weight jacket or heavy sweater (Fleece, Puff, Warm Soft Shell Jacket, etc)
  • Waterproof rain jacket/suit or poncho
  • Warm hat/beanie (for cold evenings)
  • Set of base layers (tops and bottoms: wool, capilene or polypropylene)
  • Gloves or Mittens (if your hands get cold at night)
  • Small Towel
  • Whistle
  • Scarf
  • Bandana

We strongly recommend getting travel insurance. Here are a few vendors:

https://www.worldnomads.com/

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Book Your Linville Gorge Trip

It’s time to disconnect and go off grid. We’ll navigate the tangled trails for you and help you relax in nature with incredibly peaceful views.