Tanasee Bald facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Tanasee Bald |
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Tanasee Bald viewed from the Blue Ridge Parkway
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 5,561 ft (1,695 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Haywood / Transylvania counties, North Carolina, U.S. |
| Parent range | Great Balsam Mountains Blue Ridge Mountains |
| Topo map | USGS Sam Knob |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Hike |
Tanasee Bald, also known as Tennessee Bald, is a tall mountain in western North Carolina. It stands at 5,561 feet high! You can find it near the famous Blue Ridge Parkway, right on the border between Haywood and Transylvania counties. This mountain is part of the Great Balsam Mountains, which are themselves a part of the larger Blue Ridge Mountains and the huge Appalachian Mountains.
Exploring Tanasee Bald
Tanasee Bald is a mountain that stands out because its top is mostly open, without many trees. This open area is called a "bald." It offers amazing views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. The mountain is a popular spot for hikers who want to explore the natural beauty of North Carolina.
Home to Unique Wildlife
Tanasee Bald is a special place for animals, especially birds. It's the southernmost place where the northern saw-whet owl comes to have its babies. These small owls usually live much further north, in the cold boreal forests of Canada. So, finding them here is quite unique! Scientists study these owls to understand how they adapt to different climates.
The Legend of Jutaculla
The Cherokee people have many old stories and legends about the land. One famous legend tells about a giant named Jutaculla (sometimes spelled Judaculla). The Cherokee name for him is Tsul'kălû', which means "he has it slanting" or "slant-eyed."
According to the legend, Jutaculla was a powerful giant who lived on top of Tanasee Bald. He was known as a great hunter and a master of magic. People believed he could control the weather and the animals. The Cherokee stories say that Jutaculla left mysterious marks on rocks in the area, which are still visible today. These marks are thought to be his footprints or carvings he made. The legend of Jutaculla reminds us of the deep connection the Cherokee people have with the mountains and their rich history.
