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.

The experts were North Carolina Fish and Game . Being that you are from there you probably have more accurate information. I do apologize.
Chuck

I didn't mean to be rude Chuck7,I kind of thought that was where your info came from.The NC Wildlife Resources tries to do their best but sometimes they are just not informed or do not have the knowledge you would expext.Try to pin them down on wildlife management issues such as food plots , where and why they are planted in certain areas and you will see what I mean.