Birkhead Mountains Wilderness

Birkhead Mountains Wilderness is a protected natural area within Uwharrie National Forest featuring rolling terrain covered with dense forest. The landscape includes ridges, valleys, and diverse plant communities typical of the Piedmont region.

The area received official protection status in 1984 as part of state conservation efforts. Before that, settlers had cleared and farmed parts of the land for generations.

Indigenous peoples lived in these mountains for thousands of years, leaving behind a deep connection to the land. You can sense this heritage as you walk through the forest.

The wilderness is accessed through marked trail systems that offer different difficulty levels for various hikers. Bring plenty of water and sturdy boots since some sections involve steep climbs.

The mountains are part of one of North America's oldest mountain ranges, with rock formations that are ancient beyond measure. Hikers sometimes discover old artifacts along the trails, remnants of people who lived here long ago.

Location: North Carolina

Inception: 1984

Operator: United States Forest Service

Website: http://fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recreation/recarea/?recid=49146

GPS coordinates: 35.60280,-79.92170

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:02