Wayah Bald, Nantahala National Forest

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Several publications call Wayah Bald (elev. 5,385 feet) an attraction that shouldn’t be missed. The 50-foot stone tower, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, provides nice views of the Smoky and Unicoi mountains of the Nantahala and Little Tennessee valleys, but it is a small bald.

We were there in August 2008 (and for better or worse our photos are date-stamped to prove it); in the spring, blooming wildflowers, rhododendron and azaleas reportedly make a spectacular sight.

There are toilets at the head of a paved path from the parking area to the tower, and there are informational signs along the path. Around the corner from the parking area, the road loops a small lawn, which had a picnic table at the far end.

The tower was refurbished in 2010 and reopened early in 2011 along with new pathways, a new restroom and new accessible parking.

The Appalachian and Bartram trails cross Wayah Bald.

The tower site dates to 1927, when the Forest Service erected a wooden tower.

Down the hillside stand the cabins of Wilson Lick Ranger Station, the first ranger station of the Nantahala National Forest, built in 1913.

Wayah Bald, noted on the state road map, is in Macon County west of Franklin. From U.S. 64 west watch for the sign at Old Murphy Road (Old U.S. 64) on the right. Take Old Murphy about a mile to Wayah Road (SR 1310) on the left, and then 9 miles later take a right onto Forest Service Road 69, which is a gravel road up the mountain.