Panthertown Valley The Yosemite Of The East | Cashiers, NC

Panthertown Valley is a hiker’s heaven in the Nantahala National Forest, is comprised of more than 6,300 acres and a 30-mile trail system that is open year-round for hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, fishing and horseback riding. This area is often referred to as, “the Yosemite of the East” and pioneers termed this valley “Paintertown,” local for “Panthertown” due to the number of panthers who once roamed the North Carolina mountains.

Many of the trails in Panthertown were created in the 1990’s by Carlton McNeill who lived just outside the valley until he passed away in 2007. McNeill was considered the unofficial caretaker of Panthertown. He is single-handedly responsible for clearing many of the footpaths leading to favorite destinations there. He has a great trail named after him, Carlton’s Way, that connects the valley with the ridgeline through one of his signature routes.

Along the trails, you’ll find stunning waterfalls and spectacular, scenic panoramas. The most sought-after waterfall is the Schoolhouse Falls, a 25-foot cascade, one of the area’s most well-known landmarks.

Panthertown received the designation as a Blue Ridge National Heritage Area for its unique character and beauty, and the valley is also recognized as a North Carolina Mountain Treasure by The Wilderness Society.

Caliber Fine Properties currently has a listing for sale in the quiet High Hemlock community in Glenville, NC that’s just minutes from downtown Cashiers, NC; and easily accessible to Panthertown Valley’s 30-mile trail system. To learn more about this listing on Double Knob Trail in High Hemlock, click here.