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2022 Map of Rainbow Springs

Name: 2022 Topographic Map of Rainbow Springs
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 2022
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 2022

About this map

The Nantahala National Forest dominates this high-elevation landscape along the Macon and Clay County border. Centered on the settlement of Rainbow Springs, the terrain is a complex network of ridges and watercourses, including the headwaters of the Nantahala River and the Tallulah River. Notable for its density of named gaps and knobs, the map traces the Appalachian National Scenic Trail as it winds across the Nantahala Mountains through Wallace Gap and Rock Gap.

Local history and genealogy interests are centered near Ascension Chapel Episcopal and its adjacent Graveyard, located along the upper reaches of Nantahala River. The area's character is defined by its recreation-oriented landscape, with numerous designated paths such as the Chunky Gal Trail and Kimsey Creek Trail providing access to landmarks like Buzzard Knob and Winding Stair Gap. This 2022 survey documents the contemporary trail systems and forest management boundaries that define this part of the Blue Ridge.