Mouse Branch Trail

Pets must be restrained or on a leash at all times while in developed recreation areas.

Nantahala National Forest

Length: 5.3  miles
Rating: Moderate

One of the four loop trails at Tsali Recreation Area

From the intersection of the trailhead and County Line Road, you will descend following a dirt road until it crosses a stream. To the left you should see a sign for the Thompson Loop Trail. DO NOT turn here, but continue on the road for about a ¼ of a mile. You will come to a small open area with signs for the Mouse Branch Loop Trail. You can choose either direction. It is recommended to take the left fork of the trail.

This is a well used trail and easy to follow. Portions of the trail have suffered fire and storm damage over the past several years. However, the trail still offers a view of nature in recovery and many splendid vistas of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Directions:

The Tsali Recreation Area is about 17½ miles from Robbinsville in the northeast corner of Graham County. From Robbinsville, travel east on State Highway 143 until you reach the junction with Highway 28. Turn right at the stop sign and proceed south on Highway 28 for approximately 8.4 miles. The entrance to the Tsali Recreation Area will be on the north side of the road and is well marked with signs. About one and a half miles from the entrance their is a parking area and it is a short walk to the various trailheads. The parking area has restrooms and an informational bulletin board.