Bartram Trail Franklin NC
Hike the Bartram Trail in Franklin, NC, for stunning mountain vistas, charming waterfalls, and peaceful forest paths. A rewarding outdoor adventure aw...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Bartram Trail Franklin NC
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike the Bartram Trail in Franklin, NC, for stunning mountain vistas, charming waterfalls, and peaceful forest paths. A rewarding outdoor adventure awaits!
"Well worth the walk to this magnificent view and all the smells of fresh air from the tall trees!!"
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Many sections of the Bartram Trail are great for dogs! They'll love the fresh air and river access.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail can be rocky and steep in places. Good hiking boots are a must for comfort and safety.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
William's Pulpit Overlook
Near Franklin, NC
Breathtaking panoramic views await after a rewarding hike. Ideal for photographers and nature lovers seeking expansive vistas.
Wallace Branch Waterfall
Bartram Trail, Franklin, NC
A charming cascade perfect for a short, family-friendly hike. Dip your toes in the cool water on a warm day.
Pinnacle Rock Overlook
Appalachian Trail section
Experience dramatic cliff faces and expansive mountain scenery. A challenging but incredibly scenic section of the trail.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Bartram Trail Adventure
Navigating the Bartram Trail
Always check trail conditions and be prepared for rocky terrain, especially on longer routes. Best Times
Insider Tips
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🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Many sections of the Bartram Trail are great for dogs! They'll love the fresh air and river access.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail can be rocky and steep in places. Good hiking boots are a must for comfort and safety.
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water, especially for longer hikes. Staying hydrated is crucial in the mountain air.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera! The overlooks offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunrise/sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Many sections of the Bartram Trail are great for dogs! They'll love the fresh air and river access.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail can be rocky and steep in places. Good hiking boots are a must for comfort and safety.
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water, especially for longer hikes. Staying hydrated is crucial in the mountain air.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera! The overlooks offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunrise/sunset.
🗺️ Know Your Route
The Bartram Trail is extensive. Plan your hike and know your entry/exit points beforehand.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning views from overlooks like William's Pulpit and the charming Wallace Branch waterfall, making it a rewarding hike for many. While some find the trails challenging and rocky, the natural beauty and fresh air are consistently praised. It's a great spot for families and dog owners looking for an outdoor escape. +2
"Started this hike on Sunday at Noon. We only saw two small groups. I rated this hike as moderate, but if you're not in good shape, it would be hard. There is a steady incline in the beginning. It levels out a few times, but it gets steeper right before the lead up to Williams Pulpit. It's a good workout. Since it was November, the trail was covered in leaves and while there are rocks and roots, the leaf coverage didn't pose too much danger. The trail was in great shape. There are a couple spots for mountain views, particularly at the Pulpit, and there are some views of the valley. While the parking lot is easy to locate, there is room for maybe 8 cars. Since it's a dead-end, you could probably park on the road."
Kay Mayfield
"Took me a few trips to get to Williams Pulpit, but definitely worth the hike! Gorgeous views! Can't wait to go back in the winter though for even better views."
Krissy Cramer
"We’ve only done a quick hike to the water fall with our toddlers. A great little hike for them to get to an easy waterfall and put their feet in the water."
Madeline Gorman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bartram Trail has multiple access points near Franklin, NC. A popular starting point for the Wallace Branch waterfall is off Reservoir Road. For overlooks like Pinnacle and Pulpit Rock, you might access them via the Appalachian Trail, with parking available on Reservoir Road.
Yes, parking is generally available at designated trailheads. For Pulpit Rock, parking is noted on Reservoir Road. Always check specific trailhead information before you go.
While GPS can be helpful, cell service can be spotty in mountainous areas. Downloading offline maps is highly recommended for navigating the Bartram Trail.
Public transport options are limited for accessing remote trailheads like those on the Bartram Trail. It's best to plan for private transportation or ride-sharing services.
The William's Pulpit trail is part of Section 4 of the Bartram Trail. It's often accessed via Wallace Branch, with a trailhead located near Franklin, NC.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, hiking the Bartram Trail is generally free. There are no admission fees required to access the trails or enjoy the natural scenery.
The Bartram Trail is an outdoor natural area and is typically accessible from dawn to dusk. There are no set operating hours, but it's advisable to hike during daylight for safety.
Reservations are not required for the Bartram Trail as it's a public hiking area. You can visit anytime, though popular spots might be busier on weekends.
Generally, no permits are required for day hiking on the Bartram Trail. However, if you plan on extended backcountry camping, you may need to check with local ranger districts for regulations.
Booking is not necessary for the Bartram Trail. It's a public access trail, so you can simply show up and start your hike.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular sections include the hike to William's Pulpit for its views, and the Wallace Branch waterfall for its accessibility. The Appalachian Trail sections near Pinnacle and Pulpit Rock are also highly regarded for their dramatic scenery.
Yes, the section leading to Wallace Branch waterfall is a great short hike for toddlers, offering easy access to water. Longer or steeper sections might be more challenging for very young children.
You might encounter various wildlife, including deer, birds, and smaller mammals. Always maintain a safe distance and do not feed the animals.
Restroom facilities are typically limited at trailheads. It's advisable to use facilities before you start your hike or be prepared for backcountry conditions.
Difficulty varies greatly. Some sections are moderate with steady climbs and rocky terrain, while others, like the path to Wallace Branch waterfall, are easier.
📸 📸 Photography
William's Pulpit and Pinnacle Rock offer stunning panoramic views ideal for landscape photography. The Wallace Branch waterfall provides a beautiful subject for nature and close-up shots.
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset offer the best light, creating dramatic shadows and warm tones. Winter months can provide unobstructed views from overlooks.
For personal photography, no special permit is typically required. If you plan on commercial photography or videography, it's best to check with the relevant authorities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive overlooks, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially within national forests or parks. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
For families with slightly older children who are up for a bit more of a challenge, consider exploring sections that offer rewarding views without extreme difficulty. Always assess your children's stamina and ensure you have plenty of snacks and water.
The peaceful forests provide a beautiful and engaging environment for kids to explore nature. 🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas where you might encounter other hikers or wildlife. Be sure to bring extra water for your dog and clean up after them to keep the trails pristine for everyone.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The Wallace Branch waterfall offers a different photographic subject, perfect for capturing the beauty of cascading water and lush greenery.
Winter months can offer clearer, unobstructed views from the higher elevations, making it an excellent time for landscape photography. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Bartram Trail's Diverse Terrain
+1 Many hikers appreciate the natural beauty and the opportunity to connect with the outdoors. One of the most accessible and family-friendly features is the Wallace Branch waterfall, a lovely cascade that can be reached with a short hike.
For those seeking more challenging hikes, sections leading to Pinnacle and Pulpit Rock are highly recommended. These areas are characterized by massive open cliff faces and plutonic rock formations, offering a more rugged and dramatic hiking experience.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as these sections can be quite rocky and steep. Best Practices for Hiking the Bartram Trail
Downloading offline maps is highly recommended, as cell service can be unreliable in the mountainous terrain. Safety and comfort should be top priorities. Always carry an adequate supply of water, especially during warmer months, and wear sturdy hiking boots to navigate the often rocky and uneven paths.
Respecting the environment is also paramount. Stay on marked trails to minimize your impact on the ecosystem. Pack out everything you pack in, leaving no trace behind.
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