Just west of Fontana Lake, this isolated stream is a wilderness gem that includes backcountry campsites not far from Highway 28. A medium-width stream, much of its waters were swallowed by the damming of Fontana Lake, and it’s now much shorter than its name entails. Hike along the trail by the creek, and you’ll find ample pools hiding rainbows and the occasional brown trout. Cascades and steep descents can require some adventuring to navigate your way upstream. The creek’s steep descent requires wading skills, with water particularly high in the spring.
Directions: From Bryson City, leave town on US-74 W. Go 8 miles to NC-28 N. Continue 21 miles to a right on Fontana Dam Rd. Look for Twentymile Ranger Station – the trail begins behind the building.
The Adventure Collective publishes a series of outdoor adventure sports guides to adventures in Asheville, Boone, Brevard, Chattanooga, Charleston and The Great Smoky Mountains.
