The 6,295 acre Panthertown Valley is one of the most unique and diverse natural areas in this region. SIERRA magazine described Panthertown Valley as "one of the least known, but most magnificent areas in the Southern Appalachians." Others have called it the "Yosemite of the East" due to the granite cliffs and domes that abruptly rise 200-300 feet from the valley floor. This unusual valley is home to 11 different natural communities, including the rare Southern Appalachian bog and the swamp-forest bog community. These communities harbor numerous rare plants, including at least 8 globally endangered plant species. The headwaters of the East Fork of the Tuckaseegee River and 20 miles of native brook trout streams are also located in the valley.
Granny Burrell Falls is nearer the west entrance to the valley but can be accessed from the east too. A good map of the valley will be very helpful as none of the trails here are marked.
From the Salt Rock (east) entrance start down from the parking area for a view from the Salt Rock Overlook. Continue the descent on a gravel road to an intersection of three roads which is approximately 1 mile from the parking area. For Granny Burrell Falls on Panthertown Creek, turn right .2 mile and cross an old wood bridge. The trail for the falls is on the right. If you come in from the Cold Mountain Gap (west) entrance you are on your own! Again, a trail map of the valley will be a great asset.
The original Granny Burrell Falls cache went missing in August 2008, presumably after some heavy rainfalls. I relocated this cache far enough away from the original spot that it really required a new GCID. The cache container is a medium Lock&Lock. The coordinates will be a little iffy due to the dense tree cover. From the base of the falls there is an opening in the trees that leads to a trail that will lead to the cache. If you are having problems feel free to decrypt the hint.
When hiking through Panthertown I recommend printing the Panthertown Trail System map. Enjoy your stay in Panthertown Valley!
FTF HONORS GO TO Pisgah Pounders!!!
