Wilson Creek is a designated National Wild and Scenic River that flows approximately 23 miles from its headwaters on Grandfather Mountain near the Blue Ridge Parkway to its confluence with the Johns River. This freestone mountain stream descends through both Avery and Caldwell Counties within the Grandfather District of Pisgah National Forest, offering diverse fishing opportunities across its length. The creek transitions from a small to medium-sized stream in the upper reaches to larger, more accessible waters downstream. Originally used as hunting grounds by Cherokee Indians and later as the site of extensive logging operations beginning in the 1750s, Wilson Creek has evolved into one of North Carolina's premier trout fishing destinations. The stream features a mix of runs, riffles, plunges, short pools, and cascading sections, flowing through steep wooded valleys and the dramatic Wilson Creek Gorge. Both public and private lands border the creek, creating varying access conditions throughout its course.