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Wesser Bald Fire Tower

Franklin, North Carolina

4.7/5
based on 6 reviews

Details

Distance

2.36 miles

Elevation Gain

807 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Nathan Szwarc

This hike leads to a unique 30 foot tall fire tower that offers 360 degree unobstructed vies of the Nantahala National Forest, Fontana Lake, and the Little Tennessee River Valley.

The road leading to the trailhead is rough the last mile, but doable in any car. Just make sure to take it easy going up and be careful, especially if there has been any rain or snow. You will have reached the parking area for the hike once you see a large green Appalachian trail sign and a few parking spaces. The parking lot splits the Appalachian trail, so even though you will be hiking on the Appalachian trail you will want to take the the trail on the left, not the trail on the right marked by the large green Appalachian trail sign to get to the Wesser Fire tower. The trail on the left to the Wesser fire tower begins with a steep ascent and is marked by a few large rocks blocking the center of the trail to ensure motorized vehicles stay off.

The trail ascends the whole time at a good incline with little-to-no mountain views along the way. The incline is steep so leave plenty of time to get up. Once you have completed the 1.4 mile ascent with no turn-offs or branches on to other trails, it will open up and you will see the fire tower. The fire tower itself is unique because it has no walls or roof and the floor is quite expansive. This is a great place to camp and if the weather is good, you could even camp on top. If the weather isn't great, camping below is still very nice and there is a fire pit located under the tower. There are no water sources on top so make sure to bring plenty.

To return simply descend back down the 1.4 mile trail making no turns or cutoffs and you will reach your vehicle. If you have any extra time at the begging or ending of the hike take some time to explore Otter Creek as you come up the Otter Creek Road, where you can find lots of beautiful cascades and a few large unnamed waterfalls! As always make sure to leave the trail better than you found it.

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Features

Camping
Photography
Backpacking
Hiking
Forest
Groups
Scenic

Wesser Bald Fire Tower Reviews

I live close to here and make it a point to visit the fire tower a few times every year. It's my go to spot to take visiting friends and family and it never disappoints. Watching the sunset from here will never get old.

This hike is short, maybe a little over a mile, but offers one of the best views of the Nantahala Forest. The trail ascends at a steady incline, but is very manageable. The tower is an awesome place to view the surrounding mountains and if it isn't a busy season or too windy, it can be a cool spot to camp. Just don't put a fire on top of the tower, as you will see where others have already done the same and have burnt holes in the platform. There also is a trail shelter about a mile farther down the trail, but expect it to be full if thru hikers are around.

Relatively short hike but pretty steep! Absolutely beautiful views and well worth the hike! Went up in the summer on a clear day and you could see for miles! One of the best fire towers in the area! Road up to it was a little strenuous but no problem for any 4WD Vehicle. Five stars for sure!

Leave No Trace

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

Nearby

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