RoutesPlannerFeaturesUpdates
App
Login or Signup
Get the App
Login or Signup
Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
United States
North Carolina
Transylvania County

Lake Julia via Buck Forest Road and Lake Julia Road

Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
United States
North Carolina
Transylvania County

Lake Julia via Buck Forest Road and Lake Julia Road

Easy

2.9

(18)

57

hikers

Lake Julia via Buck Forest Road and Lake Julia Road

01:05

4.08km

50m

Hiking

Embark on an easy hike to Lake Julia, a serene journey through wooded areas within DuPont State Recreational Forest. This route spans 2.5 miles (4.1 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 161 feet (49 metres), taking approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes to complete. You will discover tranquil mountain…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions
1

1.11 km

Covered Bridge, DuPont State Recreational Forest

Highlight • Bridge

The Covered Bridge in DuPont State Forest spans the Little River atop High Falls and is accessible via a short, gently-graded trail just 0.5 miles from the High Falls access …

Tip by

2

2.41 km

Lake Julia spillway

Highlight • Waterfall

The Lake Julia spillway is at the northern end of the lake. You can see the creek feeding the reservoir here, or you can bike down the road a little further to the dam at the southern end.

Tip by

B

4.08 km

View of Lake Julia

Highlight • Viewpoint

There is a pretty sweet view of Lake Julia from here where it feeds into Reasonover Creek. There is a lot of great singletrack next to the water, and Reasonover …

Tip by

Loading

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.90 km

180 m

Surfaces

3.24 km

838 m

Sign up to see more specific route details

Sign up for free

Elevation

Elevation
Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Sign up to see more specific route details

Sign up for free

Weather

Powered by Foreca

Today

Wednesday 4 November

18°C

13°C

98 %

Additional weather tips

It’s set to rain on your activity. Pack a waterproof jacket.

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

Comments

guide_signup

Want to know more?

Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.

Sign up for free

This route was planned by komoot.

Save
Edit route
Download GPX
Move start point
Print
Share
Embed on a website
Report an Issue
Report restricted access

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Lake Julia via Buck Forest Road and Lake Julia Road trail suitable for beginners?

Yes, this trail is considered easy and is suitable for beginners. It features gentle rolling hills and some fairly flat sections, making it a pleasant experience for those new to hiking or looking for a less strenuous outing.

What is the terrain like on this trail?

The terrain is generally not too difficult, featuring a dirt road (Buck Forest Road) and wide trails. You'll encounter gentle rolling hills and some flat sections, making for a comfortable hike through wooded areas.

What can I see along the route?

Along the route, you can enjoy picturesque views of the tranquil 100-acre Lake Julia. Notable points of interest include the Covered Bridge, DuPont State Recreational Forest and the Lake Julia spillway. You'll also pass through wooded areas, which can feature wildflowers depending on the season.

Are there any viewpoints on the trail?

Yes, there are scenic spots offering views, including a specific View of Lake Julia. Additionally, a hidden paved airstrip along the route provides expansive mountain vistas.

Where can I park for this trail?

Access to Lake Julia is primarily by trail, as roads to the lake are typically closed to private vehicles. You will need to park at one of the designated trailheads within DuPont State Recreational Forest and hike or bike in. The trail is largely inaccessible to private vehicles.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for this trail?

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike this trail within DuPont State Recreational Forest.

Is this trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you practice 'pack in, pack out' by cleaning up after your pet.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer is ideal for a refreshing swim in Lake Julia after your hike. Winter hiking is also possible, offering a quieter experience.

Is this trail suitable for families with children?

Given its easy difficulty, gentle terrain, and relatively short distance, this trail is well-suited for families with children. The tranquil scenery and points of interest like the Covered Bridge make it an enjoyable outing for all ages.

Are there restrooms or trash cans available along the trail?

The area around Lake Julia is primitive, meaning there are no trash cans or bathrooms directly at the lake. Visitors should plan accordingly and adhere to a strict 'pack in, pack out' policy to help preserve the natural beauty of the forest.

Is there anything unique or special to look out for on this route?

Beyond the beautiful Lake Julia, keep an eye out for a hidden paved airstrip, built in the 1970s, which offers expansive mountain views. The trail also provides a more peaceful and less crowded atmosphere compared to the forest's more popular waterfall areas.

Nearby routes

Moderate

4.8

48

Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and High Falls Trail

02:59h

11.0km

140m

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesRedeem a voucherHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy