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Exploring two legendary Cherokee sites: Judaculla Rock and Devil's Courthouse, North Carolina

Cullowhee, North Carolina

5.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

0.9 miles

Elevation Gain

258 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Phil Konstantin

Two ancient Cherokee sites. Judaculla Rock features the most elaborate piece of rock art in the eastern USA. The Devil's Court is where the legendary Cherokee giant Judaculla held court. It offers a great view of four states.

Judaculla was an ancient Cherokee spirit being and giant. He ruled in western North Carolina in the traditional Cherokee homeland. Once while chasing some hunters, when he jumped to the ground, his hand hit a rock. You can still see the print on Judaculla Rock. It is the most elaborate piece of rock art in the eastern United States. It is about 10 miles from Cullowhee, North Carolina off of State Route 1737. The small park has easy walking. There is a nice creek nearby. Most of the land is private property.

The legend says Juddaculla held court in a cave near the top of a mountain. This is called the Devil's Courthouse. Devil's Courthouse has some beautiful views of the southern Appalachia Mountains. It is located 29.7 miles from Judaculla Rock on the Blue Ridge Parkway. You can mountain from the pullout. Then it is about 0.45 miles up the trail to the overlook. You can see parts of 4 states from the Devil's Courthouse overlook. There are several markers which give you the names of the places you can see in the distance. In the wintertime, the trail can be covered in snow, and/or icy.

Below is my personal video of both places. 

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Features

Rock Climbing
Chillin
Photography
Backpacking
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Forest
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Exploring two legendary Cherokee sites: Judaculla Rock and Devil's Courthouse, North Carolina Reviews

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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