North Ridge Trail

This trail follows the northern side of Black Oak Ridge. You can hike a 1-2 mile segment, or you can hike all 7.7 miles. Near the southwestern end of the trail at the Mississippi Avenue access, the powerline swath creates a nice view of the mountains. Also, another swath near Illinois Avenue presents good views year-round. At the North Walker access near the Oak Ridge Children's museum, around 6 miles from the northeastern terminus, there is a creek with beautiful spring wildflowers. Terrain is hilly with many short climbs and descents. None are hard to manage. It is a good trail to check if you are in shape and practice your pacing for a backpacking trip. Camping is not allowed, however. Most access points are a short ways from East Drive, Outer Drive, and West Outer Drive. Listed west to east, they include accesses at Endicott Lane, Englewood Lane, Delaware Avenue, Georgia Avenue, Orchard Lane, Key Springs Road, Wedgewood Road, North Walker Lane, Old Batley Road, Illinois Avenue, and Mississippi Avenue.