Wayah Bald via Burningtown Gap

Soak up majestic views from the summit lookout tower of Wayah Bald on this 9 mile hike southbound along the Appalachian Trail. While you can drive right up to the tower, that's no fun and won't burn off the waffles with extra syrup you had for breakfast. This route will give you a few miles while not being overly difficult and makes a great early winter hike before the roads close in January.

Beginning at Burningtown Gap, take the Appalachian Trail on the right of the entrance road. To the left heads north to Rocky Bald and after that Wesser Bald. The first 1.5 miles gains 450 feet over a steady incline. On the way up, take the second left in a 6-way intersection with what look like old roads. Both side of the trail are well marked with the AT's white blaze, so you should have no problem.

Just before the trail begins to descend you'll pass 3 minor views on the left. The peak in the distance is your final destination of Wayah Bald. These views are better in winter. Continue on through a bit of rolling elevation, passing through Licklog Gap before the most difficult climb on this hike. Gain 800 feet over the last mile as you make your way up to the summit of Wayah Bald. On the way up you'll pass a side trail for the Wayah shelter and afterward connect with the yellow-blazed Bartram Trail for the final leg up.

For your efforts, you'll be rewarded with outstanding views in all directions from the stone lookout tower and the viewing platform below. From here, you'll be able to see an astounding amount of other popular hiking destinations, including Albert Mountain, Cheoah Bald, Rabun Bald, Scaly Mountain, Siler Bald, Standing Indian Mountain and Whiteside Mountain to name a few.