Snapshots: Hiking the Linville Gorge Wilderness

In 1952, John D. Rockefeller donated the Linville Gorge Wilderness land to the National Park Service with the stipulation that tract be protected in its natural state. The designation made the gorge the first wild area east of the Mississippi River to be established as such. With the signing of the Wilderness Act of 1964, the 7,575-acre tract became one of the original components of the National Wilderness Preservation System. In 1984, the North Carolina Wilderness Act increased its size to 10,975 acres.

Today, the area remains a favorite destinaton for many backpackers, rock climbers and others who love the outdoors. In addition, Outward Bound, a non-profit that offers teens adventure-based summer programs, operates here as well. Pristine and unspoiled, the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area remains much as it was when the Cherokee lived here.

The following photos were taken on the Spence Ridge Trail deep inside Linville Gorge. Each shot is protected under a Creative Commons license and attribution must be given to Flingjore @ flingjore.com.

Looking South Through the Gorge


This view looks south towards Table Rock and Shortoff Mountain at the crossing of the Linville River.

Small Falls Along the River


A closer view of the southern view falls area.

Looking North Through the Gorge


This view looks north towards Wiseman's View and Linville Falls, crossing the Linville River.

The Shower Cove


When hiking Spence Ridge, there are many nooks that anyone can enjoy. Below the slight falls lies a pool of water about 3 feet deep that is about the size of a bathtub. Sitting below the water provides for good relief on a hot day.

Freshwater Streams


Across Linville Gorge are many brooks and streams that are filled with fresh water from mountain springs. Although this water is likely to be fresh, it's strongly recommended to use a filtration device when consuming.

Flora and fauna: Linville Gorge Wilderness


Much of the area is filled with mossy rocks, rhododendron and pine forests. The gorge remains a wilderness area and is considered a primitive enviroment.

To visit the complete set, follow http://www.flickr.com/photos/flingjore/sets/72157607086200148/

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