Twice, when there was no openings in the surrounding Shining Rock area, we found space at Sunburst. All 10 sites are first-come first-serve; the lack of reservations keeps this intimate campground off the radar of most tent travelers. Hikers will love the fact that a short hike up FR 97 takes you to the 6-mile Haywood Gap Trail, which penetrates the Middle Prong Wilderness. Or, take a short drive on up NC 215 and pick up the Mountains-to-Sea Trail just before the Blue Ridge Parkway: go right into the Middle Prong, go left into the scenic Sam’s Knob/Little Sam’s Knob/Black Balsam/Shining Rock area.
Expert Picks
Travis ZarinsI’m loving the fabric of this super soft hoodie. I never want to take it off!
Raleigh
Scott WoodThese moderately priced insoles are a great upgrade for any hiking shoe.
Raleigh
Amy QuinnI wear my Arizona’s ALL the time. I can’t wait to get a new color this Spring!
Raleigh
Rich ChisholmThis is such a good value. A lightweight 1 person tent for a great price. I like it for solo missions to fish or for section hikes on the AT. With social distancing a thing, bringing your own tent on a trip with buddies makes a lot of sense.
Chapel Hill
Amy QuinnThese pants are great. I love the stretch and how durable they are for a hike.
Raleigh
Lee QuinnThe Kuhl Radikl pants are among the most versatile items in my closet – I’ve worn them for hiking, travel, work, and casual every-day wear…even the occasional amateur archeology dig! Comfortable, sharp-looking, and a design that moves with you and transitions from one activity to the next without taking a break!
Raleigh
Scott WoodThe Rydr is my favorite pant by far. The combination of the 10.8 oz fabric and the articulated knees gives me the best of both worlds – durablitlly and freedom of movement. The cell phone pocket is highly functional without looking silly. Great colors too.
Raleigh
Molly CherryI love these and wear them around for everything from a walk around the neighborhood to a quick workout and anything in between.
Raleigh
