And Siler Bald is no exception. The mountain's broad summit, located just off the Appalachian Trail near Franklin, NC, offers excellent 360-degree panoramas from its domed, grassy summit. It's a gorgeous, view-packed hike, a moderate climb from nearby Wayah Gap through a beautiful hardwood forest – and one of our western North Carolina favorites. Fresh breezes. Abundant sunshine. Stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Nantahala National Forest. Pack a picnic. Toss a frisbee. Catch a stunning sunrise or sunset. Stargaze. Or just relax and soak up the gorgeous, generous views at the summit. Siler Bald via Wayah Gap: the hike The hike departs from the picnic area at Wayah Gap, located just off NC SR1310, Wayah Road ( view maps and driving directions). The hike trails eastbound through the picnic area, quickly coming to a junction with the white-blazed Appalachian Trail and turning right to follow the AT southbound to Siler Bald. The trail begins a nearly-continuous climb to the mountain's summit, ducking under a dense tunnel of rhododendron before crossing a rustic wood bridge at.
Image from Joanna Bald looking northwest towards Joyce Kilmer and Slickrock Wilderness. Courtesy of US Forest Service Snowbird Lodge webcam. Image updates every 30 minutes from sunrise to sunset. Webcam is located on the Summer House next to the Main Lodge, looking southwest over the Snowbird Mountains. Lake Santeetlah Webcam. Image updates every 15 minutes from sunrise to sunset. Webcam is located at Santeetlah Marina, located on the north side of Lake Santeetlah, and looking southerly towards Joanna Bald.
Overview A great view of Siler Bald from Wesser Bald | 15 May 2013 Siler Bald is an amazing, wide-open perch from which to take in views of the surrounding North Carolina mountains. A top-100 North Carolina ranked peak with over 1, 000 feet of vertical prominence and serving up amazing scenery, it's a bit shocking that this peak is not better-known. Rumor is that the Nantahala National Forest authorities now mow the bald to maintain the grassy opening and keep bushes and trees at bay. Regardless of the means, the result is broad big-sky views relatively rare in this region. This peak is not to be confused with Silers Bald to the north, however according to this website both peaks are named after the same area family. Siler Bald is easily accessed from AT trailheads, and makes a fine "no-brainer" side-trip for those already hoofin' it on the Appalachian Trail. The rewards for the short stroll to this open summit are more than worth the small effort to get there! Rank: 89th highest mountain in North Carolina Prominence: 1, 080 feet USGS Quad: Waya Bald Planning Map: Nantahala National Forest| Bly Gap to Fontana Dam | North Carolina (The Appalachian Trail Conservancy) Peak stats data source: Lists of John Summit Views Great North Carolina views from the summit of Siler Bald | 15 May 2013 The views from the top of Siler Bald are bound to take your breath away!