Laurel River Trail
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Trail Overview
Rails-to-trail conversion - walk along Big Laurel Creek on an old railroad bed previously used to carry logs to the sawmill in the former town of Runion on the French Broad River. Good place to see spring wildflowers.
How to get there
From Greeneville, TN:
- Head south out of town on TN-107/TN-70.
- Cross state line where highway becomes NC-208.
- After just under six miles, turn right to stay on NC-208. Straight becomes NC-212.
- After 3.5 miles, NC-208 intersects US-25/70.
- Continue south for another 0.1 mile.
- Parking along highway for a dozen vehicles.
Route Description
From the parking lot, there are immediately two options for heading down through the woods to be along Big Laurel Creek. On the left is a wider descending forest road path, while on the right is a narrow trail which drops faster to the stream. Both will remerge shortly. (Recommendation is the wider forest road.) You'll pass two refurbished rail cars on the hill above you to the left. (Private property - keep away!) A gravel road leading up to the highway is crossed. The path bears to the right passing a rental property and another home, where the power line finally ceases. After one mile, it becomes a thin path upon entry into the Pisgah National Forest. Roughly 2.5 miles, some ruins of former Runion are on hillside. Near end of trail, an active railroad is reached. Path ends at the French Broad River. Overall, go as far as you like, then turn around.
Typical Conditions
Being a Rails-to-Trail, the path is gravel with sections of dirt, uneven rock, and tree roots. Sturdy shoes are strongly suggested, but not flip-flops. Brush along the trail might grow into the path. Four crossable blowdowns were experienced in November 2017.
Note that bears have been seen in the area, thus be aware and take appropriate actions if one is spotted.
Fees, Permits, etc.
No fees or permits are required - even for parking.
After the Hike
Head into Hot Springs (ten minutes away) for a meal.
Misc. Information
Pisgah NF Trail #310
Video about the trail can been viewed here: https://www.hdcarolina.com/episode/laurel-river-trail
Maps
Photos
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