Deep Gap - FR 71

The Deep Gap Trail, also known as FR 71, takes you from US 64 up into the mountains to the Deep Gap hiking trail in the Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina. There are several other hiking opportunities on the way. The trail is a gravel forestry road with some soft sand spots that can turn into mud holes after heavy rain. The road is not always wide enough for two vehicles to pass. 4WD and high clearance are recommended, especially during Winter. All vehicles must be street-legal. The Nantahala National Forest lies in the mountains and valleys of southwestern North Carolina. The largest of North Carolina's four National Forests, the Nantahala encompasses 531,148 acres with elevations ranging from 5,800 feet at Lone Bald in Jackson County to 1,200 feet in Cherokee County along Hiwassee River.