Hike to the summit of Scaly Mountain in North Carolina's Nantahala National Forest and enjoy expansive views from this short but steep trail. Hiking the Bartram Trail for the entire way, this is the less popular route to Scaly Mountain and as such you'll enjoy solitude at least for the first half of the trip.

You could take the easier Hickory Knut Trail, but for this route begin at the small parking area at Osage Overlook along NC 106/Dillard Road. The yellow-blazed Bartram Trail heads south through the gap in the fence but we'll be travelling on it northbound, up the wooden steps across the road.

The trail begins quite steep, with several sections of steep rock steps. The path is mostly maintained but a few sections are a little overgrown. At .7 miles the trail splits. Stay to the right with the yellow blazes. At 1 mile in, a short side trail on the right leads to a nice view. From here, the trail gets a bit rockier with several slick sections if wet. A quarter mile later, turn left, following the sign for Scaly Mountain, staying on the Bartram Trail.

The trail gets a littler easier from here. You'll come to an open rock area with a nice view, but continue on another tenth of a mile to a more expansive view near the summit of Scaly Mountain on a short side trail to the left. You should easily see it. With views to the southwest, you can see Rabun Bald, the second highest mountain in Georgia, to the left.