Explore the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina: A Comprehensive Guide to the Birding Trail Mountain Trail

The Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina are a birder's paradise, and the Birding Trail Mountain Trail is the perfect way to experience the region's avian diversity. This 500-mile trail winds through some of the most beautiful and bird-rich landscapes in the state, from the high peaks of Mount Mitchell to the rolling hills of the foothills.

The trail is divided into 10 segments, each with its own unique character and birdlife. Here is a brief overview of each segment:

The North Carolina Birding Trail: Mountain Trail Guide

by Lafcadio Hearn

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	44894 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	180 pages
Paperback	:	207 pages
Item Weight	:	10.1 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.47 x 9 inches

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Segment 1: Mount Mitchell State Park

This segment of the trail begins at the summit of Mount Mitchell, the highest point in eastern North America. The park is home to a variety of high-elevation birds, including the Bicknell's Thrush, the Black-throated Blue Warbler, and the Ruby-throated Hummingbird.

Segment 2: Blue Ridge Parkway

This segment of the trail follows the Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic highway that winds along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The parkway is a great place to see birds of prey, such as the Red-tailed Hawk, the Northern Harrier, and the Bald Eagle.

Segment 3: Pisgah National Forest

This segment of the trail explores Pisgah National Forest, a vast expanse of forests, mountains, and rivers. The forest is home to a wide variety of birds, including the Ovenbird, the Scarlet Tanager, and the Yellow-throated Vireo.

Segment 4: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

This segment of the trail takes you through Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most biodiverse parks in the world. The park is home to over 200 species of birds, including the American Redstart, the Blackburnian Warbler, and the Hermit Thrush.

Segment 5: Nantahala National Forest

This segment of the trail follows the Nantahala River through Nantahala National Forest. The forest is home to a variety of riparian birds, such as the Belted Kingfisher, the Eastern Phoebe, and the Prothonotary Warbler.

Segment 6: Cherokee National Forest

This segment of the trail explores Cherokee National Forest, a land of ancient forests and rolling hills. The forest is home to a variety of birds, including the Black-capped Chickadee, the Tufted Titmouse, and the White-breasted Nuthatch.

Segment 7: Uwharrie National Forest

This segment of the trail takes you through Uwharrie National Forest, a region of rolling hills and granite outcrops. The forest is home to a variety of birds, including the Eastern Towhee, the Indigo Bunting, and the Hooded Warbler.

Segment 8: Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

This segment of the trail explores Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, a 14,000-acre lake surrounded by forests and wetlands. The lake is a great place to see waterfowl, wading birds, and shorebirds.

Segment 9: Cape Fear River Basin

This segment of the trail follows the Cape Fear River through the Piedmont region of North Carolina. The river is a great place to see wading birds, such as the Great Blue Heron, the Little Blue Heron, and the Tricolored Heron.

Segment 10: Albemarle-Pamlico Peninsula

This segment of the trail explores the Albemarle-Pamlico Peninsula, a region of coastal marshes, pocosins, and swamps. The peninsula is a great place to see waterfowl, wading birds, and shorebirds.

Planning Your Trip

The North Carolina Birding Trail Mountain Trail is a great way to experience the region's avian diversity, but it can be daunting to plan a trip. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Do your research. The North Carolina Birding Trail website has a wealth of information on the trail, including maps, species checklists, and descriptions of each segment.
• Plan your itinerary. Decide which segments of the trail you want to hike and how many days you want to spend hiking. Allow plenty of time to stop and birdwatch along the way.
• Pack for the weather. The weather in the Blue Ridge Mountains can change quickly, so be sure to pack for all conditions.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks. There are no facilities along most of the trail, so be sure to bring everything you need for a day hike.
• Respect the wildlife. The birds on the trail are wild animals, so be sure to give them space and avoid disturbing them.

The North Carolina Birding Trail Mountain Trail is a great way to experience the avian diversity of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The trail is well-maintained and accessible to hikers of all levels, and it offers a unique opportunity to see some of the region's most beautiful birds.

The North Carolina Birding Trail: Mountain Trail Guide

by Lafcadio Hearn

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	44894 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	180 pages
Paperback	:	207 pages
Item Weight	:	10.1 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.47 x 9 inches

FREE