Colbert Ridge TR 178

On clear days the trail has great views of Table Rock, Grandfather and Roan mountains. The trail ascends gently for the first half mile and then climbs steeply toward the terminus at Deep Gap with switchbacks near the top. The trail ends at a flat grassy area and intersects with the Black Mountain Crest Trail which may be used for primitive camping.

Total Length: 3.9 miles

Total Elevation Change: 2,925 feet

Degree of Difficulty: Difficult

Beginning Point: NC 1158 Colbert Creek Road

Ending Point: Black Mountain Crest Trail at Deep Gap

Average Hiking Time: 4 miles (one way)

Amount of Use: Heavy

Blaze Color: Yellow

Area Trail Map: South Toe River, Mount Mitchell & Big Ivy Trail Map

USGS Quad Maps: Celo and Mt. Mitchell

General Information

Directions:

From Burnsville, go east on US 19E for about 4.3 miles. Turn right onto NC 80. After 0.6 mile, turn right again to stay on NC 80. Follow NC 80 for 8.2 miles into Hamrick. At the gas station on the left, take a right onto Colbert Creek Road (SR 1158). If you enter Carolina Hemlick Recreation Area, you have gone too far on NC 80. Follow Colbert Creek Road for about 0.4 mile. The trailhead with a gravel pull out is on the right. The trail is marked with a brown carsonite post. Steps at the trailhead are visible from the road.