Hi,

I recommend getting a map from here Linville Gorge as well as using those guys for all your Linville needs.

Honestly, I hate to damping your spirit, but I wouldn't go to Linville Gorge for my first time backpacking... Especially if you're not in top physical condition, because that place is seriously rugged! If you still insist, then i recommend doing a one and out instead of trying to backpacking the entire Gorge. Something like hiking a couple miles to Tablerock and back to the car. Or hike to Babel Tower and camp nearby then backtrack to the car. Those should be manageable. It's a navigational nightmare in that place, it's so bad that the National Geographic map is useless unless you need a fan...I can imagine some of the other maps are just as bad. I strongly recommend the resources from the link above before venturing into this place in addition to being in great shape!

it has been a few years since i've been there..looking forward to going back!