Max Patch Mountain in North Carolina has been on our hiking bucket list forever, both because of it’s famed beauty and because we heard it was great for little legs. Our family finally experienced hiking to Max Patch Bald and it was everything we had hoped for. Here are the top 3 things we loved about the hike to Max Patch!
1. The Hike is Easy to Find
This hike is extremely easy to get to. Coming from Asheville, NC or anywhere in East TN, take exit 7 (Harmon’s Den) on Interstate 40 close to the TN/NC line. From Asheville take a right and from TN take a left just off the exit, and head up a gravel road for about 6.2 miles until the road splits. Take the left onto SR-1182 (Max Patch Rd.). Follow this road about a mile and a half and the parking for the Max Patch hike will be on your right. You will find the trail and parking area is well marked and maintained.
2. The Hike is Short and Easy
There are two ways to reach the summit of Max Patch. The easiest and shortest way to the summit is to follow the blue blazes to the left . There is even a sign that says “easier way.” You can also follow the blue blazes to the right for a longer and a “little” more challenging route. The trail starting to the right does intersect with the Appalachian trail and the blazes to follow to the summit become white. This is marked with a sign making it very easy. We opted to start out on the right trail and then came down the left trail making a complete loop. Completing the loop is a total distance of 1.7 miles.
3. Views, Views and More Views
The views are by far the very best part of this hike. Starting out on the right trail there was a view most of the hike, however if you hike from the left you will find a mostly tree covered path until just before the summit. Max Patch Mountain is called a bald mountain due to the fact it was cleared back in the 1800’s. Now this 4600-ft bald mountain is a 350 acre tract of open land providing 360 degree views. On a clear day you can spot Mt. Mitchell to the east and the Great Smoky Mountains to the south. It is one of the most spectacular views I have ever seen! I can only imagine watching the sun rise and set from Max Patch.
Top Tip!!
My top tip is to plan to stay awhile once you have reached the summit. We were in a hurry and couldn’t stay, but atop the summit there is plenty of room to fly a kite, throw a frisbee, have a picnic, or even camp for the night. Because it is a short and easy hike you can carry a little more with you to the top! Take time to really soak in the 360 degree beauty that is all around you!
Hiking has been a favorite activity of ours for years and it is so fun to be able to share that with our little guy! Mouse Creek Falls is another great family friendly hike located close to Max Patch Mountain!
Let me know your favorite family friendly hikes that we should try!!
