Caney Bottom Trail #361


1.8 mi - Moderate - Caney Bottom Trail has a moderate grade with good views of streams, cascades and waterfalls. Though all streams have log foot bridges, there are several wet areas along the trail, so wear appropriate foot gear. Shortly after bypassing the upper group camping area, and approximately 0.4 miles from the trailhead, the trail intersects Cove Creek Trail (#340), which forks to the left. *The trail is not open to bikes beyond this point; bikers must use Cove Creek Trail, which is open to bikes and ends on FS 225 (Upper Cove Creek Road). After 1.4 miles, the trail ends by again intersecting Cove Creek Trail, which can be used (if one turns left) to return to the trailhead; doing so provides a loop hike of 4.2 miles total (or approximately 5 miles if measuring from the parking lot and back to it). While most people enjoy this trail because of the beautiful streams, other attractions include large wildlife fields.

Approximate Elevation Change: 400 feet
Blaze: Blue

At a Glance

Open Season: Year-round
Usage: Heavy
Restrictions: Hiking Trail: Foot traffic (Sections of trail open for mountain bike use).
Water: yes
Restroom: none
Operated By: US Forest Service

General Information

Directions: From the Pisgah District Ranger Station/Visitor Center parking lot, turn right (north) onto US 276, proceed 3½ miles and turn left on FS 475 (signed for the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education and Pisgah Forest Fish Hatchery). Proceed approximately 1½ mile to fish hatchery, then 3 miles past it to the Cove Creek Group Camping Area. Take the road behind the gate 0.4 miles (toward the group camp), where the trail begins just before the Lower Cove Creek camping area. NOTE: Cove Creek is a fee area. Please respect the privacy of any campers by staying on the trail, which bypasses both campsites.

Activities

Mountain Biking

Day Hiking