There is a trailhead at the northern end of this overlook that leads below the nearby bridge and down to Wilson Creek. Enjoy the crystal clear waters from one of the several streams that stem from Grandfather Mtn.
About Wilson Creek
Wilson Creek is only one of four North Carolina Rivers that has been designated as a “Wild and Scenic” river. It originates at Grandfather mountain and flows 23 miles down through the Pisgah National Forest and eventually terminates into John’s River in Caldwell County. The Wilson Creek Wilderness area is a large recreation area for hikers, climbers, kayakers, mountain bikers, and fishermen.
Classification and Mileage
- Wild :: 4.6 miles
- Scenic :: 2.9 miles
- Recreational :: 15.8 miles
The River was added to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System on August 18th, 2000. The Act purposefully strives to balance river development with permanent protection for the country’s most outstanding free-flowing rivers. This designation prohibits federal support for actions, such as the construction of dams or other instream activities, that would diminish the river’s free flow or outstanding resource values. Designation neither prohibits development nor gives the federal government control over private property.
The Act specifically:
- Prohibits dams and other federally assisted water resources projects that would adversely affect river values;
- Protects outstanding natural, cultural, or recreational values;
- Ensures water quality is maintained; and
- Requires the creation of a comprehensive river management plan that addresses resource protection, development of lands and facilities, user capacities, and other management practices necessary to achieve purposes of the Act.