Pine Mountain and Bad Fork Trail Loop

This loop is considered difficult for jogging. While some sources rate it as medium for hiking, the significant elevation changes, including steep ascents and descents, and potentially technical sections with loose rock, demand good physical condition and appropriate footwear. It is not recommended for those without 'alpine experience' if attempting a hard run.

The terrain is varied and can be challenging. The Bad Fork Trail section follows the banks of Bad Fork, but involves a substantial uphill return. You'll encounter steep segments, including a very steep descent to Bad Fork after a ridgeline. Some parts can be technical with loose rock, requiring sure-footedness and sturdy shoes.

The loop offers beautiful natural scenery. The Bad Fork Trail section is particularly scenic with the sound of the water. You can enjoy views down the Wash Creek Valley and across to Trace Ridge, especially in winter when leaves are off the trees. The best vistas are generally found from above the Bad Fork Valley Overlook on the Pine Mountain Trail, offering glimpses of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Key features include the View of the Blue Ridge Mountains from Pine Mountain Trail, the unique crossing over the Pine Mountain Tunnel (on the Blue Ridge Parkway), and the serene Bad Fork Trail itself, known for its beauty and solitude. Wildflowers also add to the trail's charm throughout the growing season.

The trail is located in Henderson County, North Carolina, starting and ending in Horse Shoe. While specific parking details for this exact loop are not provided, the Bad Fork Valley Overlook at mile marker 399.7 on the Blue Ridge Parkway is a known pull-off parking area in the vicinity that provides access to trails in the area.

Generally, there are no permits or entrance fees required for day-use hiking or jogging on trails within Pisgah National Forest. However, it's always a good idea to check the official USDA Forest Service website for the latest regulations and any specific requirements for certain activities or areas within the forest. You can find more information at fs.usda.gov.

Yes, trails in Pisgah National Forest are generally dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users. Please remember to pack out all pet waste.

The trail can be enjoyed throughout the year. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and wildflowers. Fall provides stunning foliage. Winter, with leaves off the trees, opens up broader views down the Wash Creek Valley and across to Trace Ridge. Always check weather conditions before heading out, as conditions can vary.

The Bad Fork Trail section involves a significant downhill portion on the way out, meaning the return is entirely uphill. There's also a very steep descent to Bad Fork after following a ridgeline. Considering the 'difficult' rating for jogging, planning your direction to manage these steep sections, especially the uphill return, is advisable based on your fitness level.

For jogging, this 8.9 km (5.5 miles) loop typically takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes (4245 seconds) to complete. However, given its 'difficult' rating and varied terrain, actual times can vary significantly based on individual fitness levels, pace, and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

Yes, the route passes through sections of several other trails. Notably, it covers parts of the Bad Fork Trail (46%), Brushy Ridge Trail (34%), and the Mountains to Sea Trail (30%), including a segment of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail: Segment 3 (9%). You'll also encounter smaller sections of the Shut-in Trail and Double Head Trail.