Near H.Q. Trail
Sun Rays Jacob Fork South Mountains SP
Near H.Q. Trail
Heading up to Chestnut Knob.
Near H.Q. Trail
Jacob Fork South Mountains SP
Near H.Q. Trail
Yellow Leafcup South Mountains SP
Near H.Q. Trail
Fisherman on the Jakob Fork

Looking for more photos?

View All Photos
Driving Directions
Hike Trail

H.Q. Trail

3.5 (8 Ratings)
A main access trail into the backcountry of the South Mountains.
2.3
mi
Distance
874
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Fall ColorsRiver/CreekViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
2.27mi
Distance
874ft
Elevation Gain
97ft
Elevation Loss
20%
Max Grade
2,141ft
High Point
1,344ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
This trail starts at the Jacob Fork Parking Area, the main access point to the trails of South Mountains State Park. The trail then follows Shinny Creek to the campsites before starting to climb more steeply up to the ridge and intersecting the Upper Falls Trail. There is a good view near the top of the trail. The trail is shared with hikers, runners, mountain bikers, and horses, so use caution and yield the right of way appropriately.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

Nearby Hike Routes

High Shoals Falls Loop Trail

Hike Route

High Shoals Falls Loop Trail

Birding
strenuous
2.38 mi
+642 ft
Chestnut Knob

Hike Route

Chestnut Knob

Birding
strenuous
4.7 mi
+1,072 ft
South Mountains Eastern Loop

Hike Route

South Mountains Eastern Loop

Fall Colors
strenuous
7.13 mi
+1,561 ft
Baker's Mountain Park Loop

Hike Route

Baker's Mountain Park Loop

Birding
strenuous
4.37 mi
+1,155 ft
Fonta Flora Trail Loop

Hike Route

Fonta Flora Trail Loop

Birding
moderate
6.65 mi
+403 ft
Linville Gorge Wilderness Loop

Hike Route

Linville Gorge Wilderness Loop

Birding
strenuous
20.82 mi
+5,540 ft
Contributors
Brandon Thrower