Max Patch is an iconic hike on the Appalachian Trail about an hour outside of Asheville NC. The hike is stunning year-round, but I love it in the winter.

Although it might be tempting, camping at the top of Max Patch is prohibited. This area sees a lot of traffic in the summertime and a few years back the park service decided to enforce this rule to protect the area as well as limit trash and interaction with wildlife - especially bears!

If you choose to visit in the winter (highly recommend), be careful on the road going up as it is dirt and does not get plowed. I would encourage driving in a vehicle with four-wheel drive and taking it very slowly. Also, keep an eye on the weather and try to get up there when there's fresh snow - it's so magical!

The parking lot does not have a lot of spots, maybe can fit 10 or so cars.

Please follow Leave No Trace while visiting this spot. Unfortunately, it has seen a lot of harm in the last few years with people leaving a lot of trash and going off trail.