THE COVES OF LENOIR, NC…Wilson Creek, North Carolina is known for the rich history, early logging activities and most recently, world class trout fishing and adventurous hiking trails. Situated in Grandfather District of Pisgah National Forest, Wilson Creek is a fresh water system originating in Callaway Peak descending 23 miles connecting to the Johns River. The area was incorporated into the Wild and Scenic River system in 2000.
There are 53 miles of trails and four significant waterfalls: Harper Creek Falls, Ten Foot Falls, Hunt Fish Falls and Gragg Prong Falls. Elevations range from 1,700 to 3,900 feet challenging hikers. The reward for making it up to Little Lost Cove is the spectacular view of Grandfather Mountain.
Wilson Creek was formally occupied by the Cherokee Indians that used the site as hunting grounds during summer. The first settlements occurred in the 1750’s when the community began logging the dense forests.
Fly fishing adventures at Wilson Creek and on the Johns River
Recently, fly-fishing has gained significant presence on the competitive sports front. While some may be intrigued by the adventurous activity, it’s even more fun for those with sufficient casting skills. The most common trout species caught are the Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, and the Brown Trout.
The crystal clear pools and rough terrains make North Carolina trout fishing challenging and adventurous. There are numerous hiking trails in Western NC near fishing holes to challenge the most seasoned hikers.
The Wilson Creek area is known for the numerous trails, yet little is said about the upper and lower sections that make the stream fantastic. The top part runs from Blue Ridge Parkway to Edgemont serving as a catch and release area. The artificial lures are strictly set aside for those with single hooks while the pools and runs make it hard to hike. When it comes to fishing activities, folks will want to consider the feeder streams as they have not disappointed trout fishing enthusiasts. The fishing activities are open daily hence anglers are not limited to the seasons, in fact, it gets better for those living in Caldwell County real estate developments like The Coves Mountain River Club as they can walk or mountain bike to the Wilson Creek.
For the skilled kayaker, the Wilson Creek Gorge features a two mile run of challenging whitewater. The rapids, categorized as Class II to class IV, are best suited for intermediate and advanced kayakers. Boatbuster and Razorback are exciting class IV rapids. Kayakers can easily access the rapids from Brown Mountain Beach Road.
Public hunting in Pisgah National Forest
Another way to reconnect with nature is through the hunting missions offered in the forest of Pisgah National Forest and the Buffalo Cove Game Land. Visitors enjoy plenty of the wild turkeys, deer, black bear, the rabbit, ruffed grouse and summer birds such as the Chestnut-sided Warbler, Ovenbird, Catbird and the wood thrush. As if it was not enough, catch a glimpse of the famous hawk migrations that happen in autumn. Before embarking on a hunting mission, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the latest versions of the hunting rules devised by the forest service and the NC Wildlife Commission.
The recreational trails of Wilson Creek
Every day, the Wilson Creek records high numbers of hikers and trail enthusiasts, thanks to the natural hiking trails in Western North Carolina and camping sites. Anglers can set up their camping tents at the Mortimer camping ground, which is about 10 miles up the mountain. The facility offers 23 primitive camping sites, picnic tables, two fully equipped bathhouses, and fire rings. While the site operates between April and October, you need to part with $10 per camping night.
To sum it up, the trails require full preparedness from the participants owing to the rugged nature of the creek and that’s just the way serious hikers like it. Most trails contain signs at the trailheads and some are open for mountain biking. If you are looking for horseback riding, Anita-Alta offers horse riding and hiking trails that connect to Pisgah National Forest or of course, you can find it at The Coves Mountain River Club.
Living in a mountain paradise in the foothills
On your first visit, you may not have enough time to enjoy the natural scenes and participate in all the trails. While frequent visits are likely to quench your thirst for the breathtaking mountains, a popular Caldwell County real estate development in the area welcomes you to visit and learn more. The Coves Mountain River Club is a gated mountain community positioned with 3,600 scenic acres, with amenities that include 5 miles of river frontage on the Johns River, a mountaintop lodge with infinity edge swimming pool and hot tub, a full service equestrian center, community garden and its own well maintained hiking trails in North Carolina. The mountain community allows buyers searching for mountain homes to choose from the large equestrian estates, mountaintop vistas, riverfront retreats or a private cabin in the woods.
With the Johns River at your doorstop, residents can always go for kayaking and challenging North Carolina trout fishing adventures within the neighborhood. The Coves Mountain River Club is conveniently located in the heart of it all. Asheville and Charlotte are just an hour’s drive and Blowing Rock is even closer.
We invite you to stop by for a tour and be sure to bring your fishing rod. Call 828.754.0700.
If you’re exploring the area for the first time, ask for our 84 page complimentary Western North Carolina Visitor’s Guide which provides more information about living in the foothills.
