Near Fonta Flora Trail Loop
Overlook on Fonta Flora Trail looking out over Lake James to Bald Knob and the Black Mountain Crest
Near Fonta Flora Trail Loop
View up one of the coves towards the main part of Lake James
Near Fonta Flora Trail Loop
View of Lake James and the mountains
Near Fonta Flora Trail Loop
Beautiful covered bridge along the trail!

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Fonta Flora Trail Loop

4.6 (8 Ratings)
A great loop combining the Fonta Flora Trail through the county park and the Fonta Flora/MST Connector in the gamelands.
6.6
mi
Distance
453
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsLakeRiver/CreekViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
6.65mi
Distance
453ft
Elevation Gain
453ft
Elevation Loss
40%
Max Grade
1,323ft
High Point
1,202ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
Start at the trailhead at the intersection of Fish Hatchery Road and NC 126. From there, enter the Fonta Flora State Trail through the park for about 4.5 miles until your reach the Lake James Boat Launch. Hike through the parking lot and head west on NC 126 for a half-mile to Wolf Pit Road. Turn right onto Wolf Pit Road and start looking for the Fonta Flora/MST Connector Trail crossing the road just under a quarter of a mile into this gravel section. Turn right onto the Fonta Flora/MST Connector Trail and follow it back to the trailhead and your car.
History & Background
This utilizes an expanded section of the Fonta Flora State Trail. The Fonta Flora Trail will soon stretch from Morganton to Asheville!

Route Conditions

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No Condition Reports
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Contributors
Brandon Thrower