Graveyard Ridge Trail #356

3.4 mi - Easy - The first 2 miles of this trail are for hikers only because of the fragile soils. These soils are very susceptible to erosion, so please stay on the main trail. For approximately the first ¼ mile, you will climb through a grass bald up to an old railroad grade while the trail overlaps the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Turn left onto the old railroad grade to continue on the Graveyard Ridge Trail. There are outstanding views of Graveyard Fields and, on clear days, points as far as South Carolina. At Dark Prong Gap, where the trail crosses the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (#440), the trail will become a roadbed that is open to horses and mountain bikes. The views are nice as you look across Dark Prong and Greasy Cove toward Mt. Pisgah. This trail ends at Investor Gap. Be aware of changing weather conditions; if visibility is hampered due to fog, you are advised to avoid this trail, since it is easy to become disoriented in its open areas.

Approximate Elevation Change: 500 feet
Blaze: Orange

At a Glance