Panthertown Valley Backpacking

Panthertown Valley has granite domes, cliffs and crags, offering lots of great views.  The valley also has numerous waterfalls.  

We'll begin at the Salt Rock Gap trailhead.  From there, we will hike into the valley and look for a campsite.  There are campsites along Panthertown Creek or a little further along near Jawbone Falls, a beautiful 40 footer with a large pool at its base.  We'll set up camp and then decide where to explore next.  

A short hike away are Schoolhouse Falls, Warden's Falls, Jawbone Falls, and Riding Ford Falls. As well as the excellent views from Tranquility Point atop Little Green Mountain.  Plan on hiking somwhere around 3 to 4.5 miles before we get to camp.  With a few more miles to explore the waterfalls and views.   These few more miles are optional. If you want to sit around the camp and relax, feel free.

Swimming in some of the pools may be an option with this summer weather we are having.

After breakfast Sunday morning, we'll hike back to Salt Rock Gap, taking the Powerline Road Trail, up and over Blackrock Mountain (elevation 4440').  The hike out should be around 4 to 4.5 miles.  

We will cancel the trip if there is inclement weather or freezing temperatures.

Thank you Jasmine and Mark P for the original write up.

From the park and ride, take 85 North, exit left onto I 985  North.   Follow this all the way through Clayton.  We'll regroup at the Burger King in Clayton and then continue on to Dillard. Just before reaching the NC line turn left onto NC 106 towards Highlands.  In Highlands, turn Right onto US64.  Follow to Cashiers, NC, and continue on US64.  Two miles east of Cashiers, then left on Cedar Creek Road (SR 1120).  Continue on Cedar Creek for 2.3 miles and turn right on Breedlove Rd.  Take Breedlove Rd 3.5 miles to the trailhead.  Note:  the last 1/4 mile is gravel road.  It is usually passable by most cars.  If not, we have the option to park at the end of the pavement.