Wayah Bald Fire Tower

Difficulty: Moderate/Easy Length: A few hundred feet from the parking area Why It's Cool: Fire towers! Yay! Just outside of Franklin, NC, Wayah Bald Fire Tower is a great spot to take in 360 degree views. This little excursion took place back in April of this year, and it blew my mind. Why, you may ask? Was it because of the endless puns that can be made with the name Wayah Bald? No, although, y'all had best believe the puns were abundant.  The reason this trip blew my mind was because as you drive up the mountain, the bright green colors of spring that were budding at the base of the mountain faded into leafless browns as the elevation climbed. Old Man Winter had clearly not given up his perch at the top of the mountain. I don't blame him, the views are pretty nice up there. 

At an elevation of approximately 5,340 ft., it's no surprise that you can see a long way from the top of the tower. In an article by Romantic Asheville, they say that on a clear day you can see as far away as the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee and the mountains of Georgia. 

While you're in the area, take some time to explore the town of Franklin! It's got all the charm that you could want from a mountain town.  Okay now, back to those tasty mountain views. 

Mountains are amazing and awe-inspiring, even in the slumber of winter before spring makes its way up the hillsides. It's a beautiful thing, y'all. As always, practice Leave No Trace when you explore these hills. Take only pictures, and leave only footprints. Happy wandering!

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