Iron Mine Trail

This 10.8 mile loop is a very demanding, but very rewarding hike that will take most of the day to complete. The hike can be started from many different locations but in this write-up it starts at the Saddle Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway and the loop is in the counter-clockwise direction.From the Saddle Overlook take the trail to the right of the parking area, which ascends quickly into th...

Mabry Mill is one of the most photographed spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and rightfully so. Located at MP 176.1 the mill is beautiful in any season and easily accessed from the parking lot. Since this place is so popular, be prepared for crowds.This place is a nice " leg-stretcher" if driving the Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway or a short side trip from the trailhead if you're hiking Rock Cas...

COVID-19 CLOSURE: Due to Covid-19, this trail will be closed effective April 10, 2020 at 8 PM until June 24, 2020.  A short 1.0 mile hike to the summit with 700’ elevation gain, the trail switchbacks steeply up to the exposed rocky summit. To the north you can see Sharp Top and Flat Top at the Peaks of Otter, and to the south you can see Pilot Mountain in North Carolina. The summit has many pla...

Park at the Alta Mons camp parking lot, and start walking the gravel road. There will be signs throughout the trail that lead to the waterfall. Continue down the trail for 1.5 miles. Look out for the white trail markers that indicate the Stiles Falls trail. After 1.5 miles, you will reach the waterfall! Enjoy the view of a 60-foot waterfall. To return, follow the trail back to the parking lot.

A beautiful hike through the forest of Hanging Rock State Park. Trail meanders through pines and hardwoods filled with boulders, mountain laurel, scenic views, and the occasional deer or turkey. The trail begins as gravel and dirt then turns into steps made of wood and stone. Also on the trail is an overlook and a wooden bridge that sets on the side of the hill. Trail is approximately .8 miles ...

Park in the main parking lot for Hanging Rock State Park, and the trailhead can easily be found in the upper parking lot (furthest away from the main building), and is clearly marked. The trail starts off by descending, but don't be fooled, it quickly turns into a steady climb that will have you wanting to catch your breath in spite of the relatively short distance.At about the one mile mark, y...