Trail Running
The Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina are home to thousands of miles of trails for casual runners and ultra marathoners alike. Head off pavement for a combination of panoramic views, rhododendron tunnels, and a variety of technical features throughout the forest. The region features notable ridgeline runs at the Black Mountain Crest Trail and Chimney Rock, as well as high altitude meadows in the Graveyard Fields.
Pisgah features a variety of terrain for runners including technical single track, sustained double track climbs, dramatic ridge lines, scenic meadows, and long valley runs. Start low at 2,000 ft. to access creeks and river crossings along the valley floor or head up for waterfalls, dramatic views, and technical trails rising up to 6,000 ft. of elevation.
View more trail running resources by visiting Trail Run Project.
Select trails for access information
John Rock Trail
Distance: 5.7 miles (Loop)
Elevation: 3,283′ High, 2,320′ Low
Mountains-To-Sea/Powhatan Loop
Distance: 9.9 Miles (Loop)
Elevation: 3,073′ High, 2,128′ Low
Linville Gorge Wilderness Loop
Distance: 21.9 miles (Loop)
Elevation: 3,879′ High, 1,256′ Low