Cat Gap Bypass Trail #120A

0.4 mi - Easy - This trail shortens the Cat Gap Loop Trail by one mile, and significantly reduces the elevation changes encountered thereon. It climbs moderately through a shady hardwood forest to a gap, which is a nice campsite. From the gap, continue straight ahead onto the Cat Gap Loop Trail toward Horse Cove and the fish hatchery parking lot. (Turning right onto the Cat Gap Loop Trail from the gap will take you up to the higher portion of that trail, which you used the bypass to avoid!) Alternatively, the John Rock Trail (#365) may be taken from the same gap: It will take you to the top of John Rock, where there is a spectacular view, and then rejoin Cat Gap Loop in Horse Cove.

Approximate Elevation Change: 100 feet
Blaze: Yellow

At a Glance

Open Season:	Year-round
Usage:	Heavy
Restrictions:	Hiking Trail: foot traffic only.
Water:	no
Restroom:	none
Operated By:	US Forest Service

General Information

Directions: Leaving the Pisgah District Ranger Station/Visitor Center parking lot, turn right (north) onto US 276. Proceed approximately 3½ miles north to the first left turn, onto FS 475 (signed for Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education and Pisgah Forest Fish Hatchery). Proceed on FS 475 approximately 1½ miles to the fish hatchery parking lot. Follow the Cat Gap Loop Trail (#120). The Cat Gap Bypass begins approximately ¾ mile after the intersection with Butter Gap Trail (#123).