Joyce Kilmer Memorial Trail

USGS Map: Santeetlah Creek

The Joyce Kilmer Memorial Trail is quite possibly the best short hike in North Carolina. It is considered by many as a jewel in the crown of the Nantahala National Forest. It is an easy 2 mile figure 8 loop that travels through one of the few remaining tracts of virgin hardwood forests in the Appalachians. 3800 acres of this primeval forest were dedicated as a living memorial to Joyce Kilmer the poet. He died in World War One and was best known for his poem "Trees".

From the parking area of the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest and picnic area at the end of FR416, follow the trail signs and ascend alongside cascading Little Santeetlah Creek to cross a footbridge. Log seats for rest and contemplation are along the trail in this primeval forest of mosses, rhododendron, hemlock, yellow poplar, fetterbush, trillium, cohosh, wood sorrel and crested dwarf iris. At the junction with Poplar Cove Trail is a sign that indicates Alfred Joyce Kilmer was born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, December 6, 1886 and killed in action in France, July 30, 1918. The grove of yellow poplar is the most spectacular feature on the trails, many are 16 to 21 ft. in circumference and over 100 ft. tall. Cross another footbridge over Little Santeetlah Creek on the return loop to the parking lot. Total distance is 1.9 easy miles.

From Robbinsville, NC take Rt. 143 North towards the Cherohala Skyway. Aprox 5 - 6 miles past Robbinsville turn right at the sign for state road 1127 just before the Skyway. There is a large green sign pointing the way.  The parking lot at the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Trail is closed after dark.