Buncombe Horse Range TR 191
Besides the Appalachian Trail this is the longest trail in the Appalachian District. The trail runs through stands of red spruce and Fraser fir. It offers view of 6.000 foot peaks. Note that the trail switchbacks heavily below Maple Camp Bald and pay close attention to the trail signs and blazes because the trail crosses open fields and many intersections.
Total Length: 18.5 miles
Total Elevation Change: 2,680 feet
Degree of Difficulty: Difficult
Beginning Point: NFSR 472
Ending Point: NC 1158 Colbert Creek Road
Average Hiking Time: 12 hours (one way)
Amount of Use: Heavy
Blaze Color: White
Area Trail Map: South Toe River, Mount Mitchell & Big Ivy Trail Map
USGS Quad Maps: Celo, Mt. Mitchell and Montreat
At a Glance
Current Conditions: | In response to the widespread damage caused by Hurricane Helene, all recreation sites on the Pisgah and Nantahala remain closed until hazardous conditions improve and assessments can be completed. |
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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 this road for 11.6 miles. After passing Mt. Mitchell Golf Course, turn right onto South Toe River Road (NFSR 472). This road soon changes to gravel. Arrive at an intersection and turn right toward Black Mountain Campground. Continue past the campground over three bridges for about 2.5 miles. The trailhead is marked on the right, and a parking area is on the left side. The north end of the trail is on Colbert Creek Road, although no parking is available.
Activities
Day Hiking
Backpacking
Horse Riding
Viewing Scenery
Alerts & Warnings
- Hurricane Helene: Nantahala National Forest Closures
- Hurricane Helene: Pisgah National Forest Closures
- Uwharrie Ranger District- Kings Mountain Point Fishing Pier Closure
- Pisgah Ranger District- Catheys Creek Road Closure
- Dogs Must be Leashed in Bent Creek
- Roan Mountain Recreation Area CLOSED For 2024 Season
- Avery Creek Rd closed due to storm damages