Hiking

UPDATE: November 21, 2024

Grandfather Ranger District Reopening Additional Roads and Eighty-Five Miles of Trails

The Grandfather Ranger District on Pisgah National Forest has reopened several roads and eighty-five miles of trails, lifting the area closure that has been in place since Hurricane Helene. While access is now restored, visitors should remain cautious as some storm-related hazards, such as fallen debris or unstable conditions, may still be present.

In addition to the roads open last Friday, the following roads are now open:

• Armstrong Road (Forest Service Road 469)
• Back Irish Road (Forest Service Road 118)
• Brown Mountain Road (Forest Service Road 299)
• Carroll Creek Road (Forest Service Road 466)
• Edgemont-Pinola Road (Forest Service Road 464)
• Pearcy Creek Road (Forest Service Road 4101)
• Rose’s Creek Road (Forest Service Road 210)
• Rich Cove Road (Forest Service Road 464B)
• Maple Sally (FS Road 187)
• School House Ridge (FS Road 4068)
• Boone Fork (FS Road 2055)
• Roseboro Edgemont (FS Road 981)
• Northern Section of Roseboro Gragg, locally known as "Old House Gap" (FS Road 192)
• Watauga Turnpike (FS Road 45)
• Marks Mountain (FS Road 451)

The following trails have been reopened and are grouped by location:

Green = open

Yellow = closed with moderate damage

Red = closed with severe damage

Grey = closed with unknown damage

Mapping provided by Wild South

Travel Alert: Closures remain in effect for the Grandfather Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest.

Like many areas in Western North Carolina, the Pisgah National Forest was heavily impacted by Hurricane Helene, and visitors may encounter several hazards caused by storm damage, such as:

• Landslides along forest service roads and trails
• Fallen trees and large limbs crossing trails
• Washed out trails and bridges
• Rough roads that require high clearance vehicles where previously it did not
• Limited cell phone service in case of emergency

For your own safety, please do not hike in areas that are not currently designated at open by the U.S. Forest Service. Check the latest updates on closures and conditions before planning your visit. You can find detailed information on the Pisgah National Forest website.

At the intersection of three state trails, a national historic trail and countless backcountry routes and greenways, McDowell County offers no boundaries. From urban options like the Peavine Trail and the Catawba River Greenway, to the ADA accessible Meadows Loop and Fishing Pier at the Gateway Trails, outdoor choices abound. Hikers will especially enjoy the Mountains-to-Sea Trail reaching from the Blue Ridge Parkway to the Linville Gorge. Waterfall seekers have more than enough options to fill a trip visiting Catawba, Tom’s Creek and Crabtree Falls. And history lovers will enjoy mural trails and museums throughout the county. Below are McDowell County's highly rated and nationally recognized trails:

Old Fort Gateway Trail System -Old Fort, NC.

Bernard Mountain Trail -Old Fort, NC

Mountains to Sea Trail (Segment 4) -Marion, NC

Joseph McDowell Catawba River Greenway -Marion, NC

Heartbreak Ridge/Lower Heartbreak Ridge -Old Fort, NC

Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail -Little Switzerland, Lake James NC

Upper Catawba River Paddle Trail -Marion, Lake James NC

No matter your skill level or hiking preference, McDowell County has trails of all types, ready to be explored year-round. Our backyard is your gateway to the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Embark on a day hike and experience the joy of immersing yourself in nature for a few hours or a full day. With minimal planning and a few essentials like snacks and water, it's easy to make a spontaneous decision based on the weather. And after your hike, why not unwind at a local pub or brewery, swapping stories and photos of your day's adventure with fellow hikers?

For those seeking a more immersive experience, backpacking in McDowell County is the ultimate escape. Set your own pace and duration, whether it's a few days or a week-long journey. While it requires more planning and physical effort, the reward is unparalleled: a complete reset amidst the tranquility of nature.

These ancient mountains, with origins dating back millions of years, offer a glimpse into the Earth's remarkable past. If you're intrigued by the rich history and natural wonders of the Appalachian Mountains, consider section hiking along iconic trails like the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MTS). The Black Mountain Crest Trail is a great segment of the MTS to explore.

So lace up your boots, grab your gear, and embark on an unforgettable adventure from the heart of McDowell County. Below you will find some of our top recommendations for local hikes.

Protect North Carolina’s Outdoor Spaces

When you follow the 7 Outdoor NC Leave No Trace Principles, you can connect with nature like never before. Explore responsibly with these guidelines.

PREPARE FOR YOUR ADVENTURE

• Before embarking on your North Carolina outdoor escapade, take the time to research your destination. Familiarize yourself with local regulations and safety precautions.
• Always have a backup plan in case your intended destination is crowded or parking is limited. Consider exploring lesser-known areas or visiting during off-peak times to minimize your impact.
• Pack essential supplies such as food, water, and appropriate clothing to ensure your comfort and safety in changing weather conditions.

STAY ON THE PATH AND CAMP RESPONSIBLY

• Stick to designated trails and durable surfaces to protect fragile vegetation and minimize erosion. Camp only at designated sites or areas with existing signs of use to reduce your environmental impact.
• Be mindful of your abilities and surroundings. Stay within your group's skill level and be prepared for unexpected weather conditions and potential hazards.
• When taking breaks, step aside onto durable surfaces to allow others to pass safely without causing unnecessary damage to the environment.

PROPERLY DISPOSE OF WASTE

• Practice "pack it in, pack it out" by carrying all trash, including food scraps and cigarette butts, out of the wilderness with you.
• Dispose of pet waste responsibly and have a plan for human waste disposal when camping in remote areas.
• Remember that litter can harm wildlife and take years to decompose, so leave no trace of your visit behind.

RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT

• Appreciate the natural beauty of North Carolina by leaving plants, rocks, and other natural objects undisturbed.
• Refrain from picking flowers, stacking or moving river rocks, or carving into trees, as these actions can harm delicate ecosystems.
• Follow regulations prohibiting the removal of natural objects from protected areas to preserve the environment for future generations.

USE FIRE SAFELY AND RESPONSIBLY

• If having a fire, adhere to regulations, obtain necessary permits, and keep fires small. Use locally sourced firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species.
• Ensure fires are completely extinguished before leaving the area and consider using a stove for cooking on overnight trips to minimize environmental impact.

RESPECT WILDLIFE

• Treat North Carolina's diverse wildlife with respect by observing from a distance and refraining from feeding or approaching animals. Store food securely to prevent wildlife encounters and minimize human-wildlife conflicts.

SHARE THE TRAILS

• Show consideration for other outdoor enthusiasts by yielding to uphill hikers, announcing your presence when passing, and maintaining a respectful noise level. By sharing the trails responsibly, everyone can enjoy North Carolina's natural beauty.