This Easy And Beautiful Hike At Max Patch Should Be Added To Your North Carolina Winter Bucket List This Year
Robin Jarvis
Author
Hiking to the very top of a mountain bald in North Carolina is fulfilling for many reasons. The experience of the hike itself, combined with the views along the way and from the summit, and the overall accomplishment make the effort thrilling in more ways than one. If there’s one mountain hike in the Tar Heel State that’s doable in the winter for just about every skill level, it’s hiking the summit trail(s) to Max Patch. This is one of the best winter hikes in North Carolina by anyone’s standards!
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Have you hiked Max Patch during the wintertime? For more information about the hike and locating the trailhead, consult this link from our friends at AllTrails. We’d love to see your images included in our Facebook thread! What other trails are among your faves for winter hiking in North Carolina? Let us know!
Want more? Keep reading with this list of trails that are perfect for winter hikes in North Carolina!
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Winter hike in North Carolina
What towns with accommodations are near Max Patch?
Max Patch is located about a third of a mile from the Tennessee border. Therefore, you can stay in a hotel or other accommodation in North Carolina or in Tennessee to be close to Max Patch. In Tennessee, you might stay in Newport. In North Carolina, you could stay in Hot Springs. Both are about an hour away from this mountain.
Are there bathrooms at Max Patch?
There are no bathrooms at Max Patch. There is also no water. You'll need to bring your own water for your hike to the summit. The closest bathroom and store is seven miles away at a campground store on Meadow Fork Road. The drive will take about twenty to thirty minutes, so plan ahead.
What else should I bring?
Winter hiking is fun but you also need to make sure that you are prepared for it. This hike is relatively short but there is some elevation gain. It will be colder at the top than it is in the parking lot. Wear warm clothing including warm socks. Dress in layers; you can always remove some if you get warm, and consider carrying an extra layer to put on if you get cold, too. Also, don't forget your camera! The Max Patch summit offers a great view and you'll want to take some pictures.