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Winterstar Trail to Horse Rock Bald

Difficult
 4.0 (1)
  1. Areas
  2. NC
  3. …West and Mountains
  4. Pisgah National Forest
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“This is an old logging road bed / doubletrack trail on the west side of the Black Mountains NC. ”

Victor Mariano
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Map Key

6.6

Miles

10.6

KM

88%

Runnable

6,079' 1,853 m

High

3,840' 1,170 m

Low

2,293' 699 m

Up

54' 16 m

Down

7%

Avg Grade (4°)

17%

Max Grade (10°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Spring · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This trail is restricted to hiking, walking, or trail running. Open all year round. Closed to bikes.

Runner Notes

There is limited parking at the trailhead for three vehicles. The only sign will indicate - no vehicles - hikers ok. Please stay on the trail as off trail is very rugged, steep terrain.

Description

This trail / old road bed has numerous switchbacks as it climbs 2300 feet in six miles. There are several easy stream crossings and views of three waterfalls. Views of the North Carolina Smoky Mountains to the east are plentiful.

Flora & Fauna

Fields of wildflowers in the springtime. Rhododendrons and mountain laurels abound. There are wild turkey, black bear and deer in the area. Scenic views of the fall colors. Be cautious of copperhead and timber rattlesnakes.

Contacts

Land Manager: USFS - North Carolina National Forests Office

Shared By:

Victor Mariano
Full Details

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 1 vote

#28

in Pisgah National Forest

#14935

Overall
  4.0 from 1 vote
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Trail Rankings

#28

in Pisgah National Forest

#617

in North Carolina

#14,935

Overall
2 Views Last Month
937 Since May 10, 2017
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Photos

View of the entire Black Mountain Range
Mar 24, 2019 near Burnsville, NC
Cattail Creek Waterfalls is a pleasant treat along the trail.
Jun 8, 2017 near Burnsville, NC
Enjoy the view toward the west with the Great Smoky Mountains in the distance.
Jun 8, 2017 near Burnsville, NC
This is one of the wildflowers you'll see in the springtime.
Jun 8, 2017 near Burnsville, NC
This is one of the medium-sized waterfalls along the trail.
Jun 5, 2017 near Burnsville, NC
The final climb known to the locals as Grace's Ladder.
Mar 24, 2019 near Burnsville, NC

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