Near Pinnacle Trail
Rocky sections require trekking poles... at least when you're carrying a load!
Near Pinnacle Trail
Celebrating at the summit of The Pinnacle at Crowder Mountain SP.
Near Pinnacle Trail
The sign located at the T-intersection from the visitor center.
Near Pinnacle Trail
Perfect summit spot for trail mix
Near Pinnacle Trail
Another view of the Pinnacle

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Pinnacle Trail

4.1 (7 Ratings)
Enjoy two miles through the forest, along a ridge, finishing at the top of The Pinnacle.
2.1
mi
Distance
793
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Fall ColorsFamily FriendlyViews

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
2.06mi
Distance
793ft
Elevation Gain
67ft
Elevation Loss
40%
Max Grade
1,615ft
High Point
884ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
From the visitors center this trail provides and easy trail up to the ridge, but gains steepness as you approach the summit. It's a good trail for keeping in shape during the winter months. There are also backpacking sites along the lower section, so if you need to get your backcountry fix without a long trip in, this is the place. Begin to the left of the Visitors Center at the Sparrow Springs Access area. The way is level for a few hundred yards, then turn left at the sign. You begin to climb easily through the woods, then the trail turns left and you soon get to the rocky ridge that defines this area. Make your way over several rocky sections and then drop slightly to a saddle. here you find the Turnback Trail, where you can, as the name suggests, turn back, or you can stay the course and continue. The trail ascends along the side of the hill from this point and is often off-camber. There is one switchback and then the trail begins to get steep. At the sign for the Ridgeline Trail, turn right and watch your step as you climb the steepest and most eroded part. Soon enough you'll reach the rocks and the end of the official trail. The GPS track for this trail will lead you to the left and around the rocks to the area with the best view. The warning signs don't lie: people have died here, and recently. Please keep young ones close and stay back from the ledges. The official site, with maps, is here. Enjoy!

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Nathan Sprinkle