Wayah Bald
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Wayah Bald is a high-altitude treeless open area in Nantahala National Forest, near Franklin, North Carolina. The area takes its name from the red wolves that used to lived there; wa ya is Cherokee for wolf.[1] The Wayah Bald Observation Tower is located at the area's highest point (5,385 feet); the stone observation tower was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1937 for fire detection.[2] The Appalachian Trail and Bartram Trail cross at Wayah Bald.
Wayah Bald is a popular destination for hikers, especially during Spring, when the rhododendron and azaleas are in bloom.[1]