Nantahala Natl Forest -- Fires Creek Area, Bristol Camp
Near: MurphyNC (Weather)
Number of
Trails:
10 Total
Mileage
100 Difficulty: Challenging Trail
Rating
Camp
Rating
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Reviews
Trail Description If you like mountain riding, and your horse/mule is in very good condition, this is the place for you. Lots of creek side riding and terrific views...some trails, like the Rim Trail, have steep drop offs on one or both sides but they're not dangerous as the ridge tops are fairly wide. Bring your fly rod if you're into mountain trout. Plenty of riding variety including Forest Service roads, logging trails, and primitive one track. Parts are very steep and most trails include at least some challenging parts. I'd recommend caulks and/or borium on shoes for traction. All in all, it's a beautiful place to ride.
Best Time to Visit Anytime
Times to Avoid
Campground Bristol Camp is an organized primitive campground located next to Fires Creek. There are about 10 designated spots as well as an area for overflow camping/day use. One flyer for Bristol Creek says reservations are required but the people we met there said it was first come. At least the overflow would be first come. Might be a good idea to check with the District Ranger. The fee is $5.00 per night on the honor system. In addition to Bristol Camp, you can camp anywhere except at the picnic area.
Human Facilities: Horse Facilities: Operated by: Contact: Additional Information
Primitive, Toliet Tie Stalls, Stream US Forest Service
828-837-3249
Tusquitee Ranger District
123 Woodland Drive
Murphy, NC 28906
Directions Ten miles east of Murph, NC off US 64. Turn left onto SR 1300 (Fires Creek Road) and follow it to the entry to the Fires Creek Area. Bristol camp is about six miles into the National Forest.
This information was provided by Gem on 7/3/2005 3:59:42 PM

Notes on Difficulty Rating:  
 Easy
(Gently sloping or level terrain; trails are groomed or wide open; shallow or no creek crossings. ) 
 More Difficult (Moderate hills over consistent surface; possibly some narrow trails and short steeper slopes) 
 Rigorous (Easy to More Difficult for rider but physically challenging for horse such as on a level surface through deep sand) 
 Challenging (Possible rocky, uneven surface, steep slopes, uncleared trails, faster flowing streams and other obstacles that lead to more difficult riding for rider and horse)

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