View Full Version : Parking and shuttle at NOC
flagator
07-15-2009, 12:30
hey all. I am trying to put a section hike together at last moment here. I tried to find some info from previous posts but didn't have too much luck. I am looking at parking my car at NOC and being shuttled North, and hike to my car at NOC. I will have 3 full days to hike. My partner and I are looking at doing roughly 15 miles per day. So that would put us around Beechnut Gap. Can sometime tell me which is the closest road access to Beechnut. Also if anyone had any info on parking at NOC, price wise and if its safe. I realize I can park most anywhere but I dont like the risks, Ill fork over the cash for peace of mind. Also any contact information for shuttles who service this area, i would appreciate it very much.
we parked at the NOC last year and left our vehicle. They don't mind, and there is no charge. They only asked that we park at the top of the hill by the bunk houses. The employees there shuttle on the side. I called and they posted my shuttle request on a board they have at the NOC for the employees to check, I got a call the next day and it was set. we were shuttled to wayah gap and hiked nrth back to the NOC.
If you had a little bit longer, you could do a loop between the AT and the Bartram Trail, and avoid a shuttle. 50 miles.
http://www.trimbleoutdoors.com/ViewTrip.aspx?tripId=60410
NCYankee
07-16-2009, 09:03
I parked at NOC last week for my section hike. I used Ron Haven at the Budget Inn (then again I was having him take me from NOC to Deep Gap; complete opposite direction you are headed in). Ron's service was amazing and even if he cannot hook you up with a shuttle to the exact location you are looking for he should be able to put you in touch with someone who can. Ron can be reached at 828.524.4403.
Another option that we have used is the Hike Inn (www.thehikeinn.com (http://www.thehikeinn.com)). My wife and I stayed there and used them to shuttle to the Road to Nowhere in the Smokies. They know the Smokies like no one else, have really affordable rates, but best of all are like 10 minutes away from NOC on the way to Fontana Dam. You can reach Jeff or Nancy at 828.479.3677. We really liked them and would use their service again the next time we hike in that area.
Good luck!
gold bond
07-16-2009, 12:12
Both are great options...I've used them both and they are super!!
flagator
07-16-2009, 13:02
thank you guys for your replies. When I am inquiring about shuttle prices, what will be the nearest road access to Beech nut gap?
You should have no problems finding someone to shuttle you from the NOC. I asked Hank in the General Store to ask around and wound up paying a guy $20 for a 40 min shuttle. No problem at all.