Come to Historic Franklin, North Carolina for April Fool's Trail Days and the annual Hiker Bash as we celebrate our appreciation of Appalachian Trail Hikers. As an Appalachian Gateway Community, Franklin opens the town to all hikers of the Appalachian Trail as you start your journey north to Katahdin.

Franklin is located 11 miles from the AT and is considered a welcome respite from the cold and usually wet early spring weather. You'll find plenty of good food, great conversation and lots to do during this weekend celebration.

The Hiker Bash hosted by Ronnie Haven at Sapphire Inn on East Main Street is a great place to connect and share stories and advice and fill up on some good eats. The Hiker Bash will begin at 6:00 p.m. each evening.

Saturday, April Fool's Trail Days Festival gets underway with great entertainment, food and special workshops, exhibits and more. » Download Vendor Application

You'll find much more information inside this site so take a look around. If you have questions call (828) 524-2516 ext 304. Be sure to visit our sponsors for 2013. Click on any logo below to be redirected to their website.