Black Mountain Trail (9.8 miles- Strenuous)

Black Mountain Trail begins at the end of the parking lot next to the Pisgah District Work Center on U.S. Highway 276. The work center is 0.1 mile south of the ranger station.

The first mile of Black Mountain Trail is fairly easy, but after leaving Thrift Cove, it climbs up and over Little Hickory Knob, an 800-foot elevation gain in less than a mile. From here, the trail becomes more moderate as you drop down to Pressley Gap then up the shoulder of Black Mountain. Shortly after crossing the gravel road at Buckhorn Gap, you will come to Buckhorn Gap shelter, where there is a spring. From here, the trail climbs Soapstone Ridge, which offers nice views in the winter. The trail ends at Club Gap. Other outstanding alternate trips after reaching Buckhorn Gap - follow the blue triangle markers west to Avery Creek: then orange markers southwest to White Pines Campground on US 276. Numerous trails intersect Black Mountain; check a topo map for loop opportunities.