Don, Linville Gorge was one of the more difficult places I have done. Some things to know, permit is required May 1 to Oct 31 and trips are limited to 2 nights. Also trails are not blazed with the exception of the Mountain to Sea Trail (white circle blazes). It can be challenging to follow the trails, a GPS is recommended.
Creating loops can be difficult as many trails go to the river and look to connect with the Gorge trail at the bottom, be warned they do not. The river is largely uncrossable (except maybe in summer). The only Bridge is at Spence Ridge. The MTS crosses the river, but to my surprise it required fording, which was cold this time of year, crotch deep, and fairly wide. If I get a chance I will post trip details in the trip report forum.
Jamie
