I don't know what experts told Chuck7 to stay away from the National Forest in the mountains but having the opportunity to live in many parts of the world and hunt,I can say that the mountains are more difficult to hunt but produce as many big game as other areas of the state of NC.There are fewer hunters in the mountains than one would expect.The deer and bear population has increased to almost the point of pest in some areas and the real pest (coyote,ground hogs,etc.) are extensive.I have never had bad luck either tree stand,blind or stalking in the mountains,just alittle tired from uphill ventures.In all, I have found most of the state has some sort of good hunting.