Located on Hump Mountain, the property’s upper edge extends just 500 feet from the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the grassy balds of Hump Mountain to offer breathtaking 360-degree views. SAHC bought the tract last year and has now transferred it to Cherokee National Forest ownership. 

“This is an outstanding example of how federal, state and private partners can work together to achieve common goals,” said JaSal Morris, forest supervisor for the Cherokee National Forest. “The purchase is a great addition, not only to the Cherokee National Forest land base, but to the entire National Forest System. It will be managed for protection of its exceptional natural resources and the public’s enjoyment of its scenic beauty.”

SAHC used a significant loan from partners at The Conservation Fund to buy the land in hopes it would qualify for funding from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund. The money came through, as did a grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 

Created by Congress in 1965, the LWCF expired in September and has yet to be reauthorized. Bipartisan efforts continue to bring it back.