Island in the Sky Trail

To reach the trailhead, park at the main parking area near Glade Creek Grist Mill. Cross the bridge toward the grist mill, and the trailhead is directly behind the mill. Even though the Island in the Sky trail is only a mile long out and back, it is lined almost the whole way with rhododendron bushes that, at times, canopy over the trail. The trail leads passed the base of the rock cliffs that you will be on top of at the end of the hike. In about 0.3 miles, the trail turns right and starts to make its way up and around to the backside of the cliffs. Once on the backside, walk a few hundred yards, and the trail makes a hard but short 90 degree turn toward the rock. You will see a wooden staircase built next to the side of the rock and will have to climb them to continue on the trail. Once on top of the stairs, there will be a rock overhang you will have to duck under and then climb a few more wooden steps before you are back on the dirt trail. Walk about 100 yards to come to the “T;” the left leads to the main overlook and the stone gazebo, and the right leads to the main road. The main overlook has become overgrown, so you are only able to see the opposing ridge line. After checking out the view, you can hike to and down the main road back to the parking lot or return along the trail.

The best part of the trail is hiking though all of the rhododendrons. If you make it when the rhododendron are blooming, usually near the end of May beginning of June, this short trail would be an amazing hike.