Sand Spring Trail

From the parking lot, follow the gravel road past the gate. Then, in a few hundred feet, take the blue blazed singletrack Sand Spring Trail that splits off to the left. Farther up the trail, there are a couple unmarked trails on the left that can be optionally followed a very short distance out to the bank of the creek where there is a wooden bench. The main trail eventually turns left and crosses the creek which usually requires some rock hopping (after heavy rain, it may be difficult to keep feet dry). Continuing on, there are a few more smaller stream crossings, two steeper climbs, and several opportunities to enjoy a quick departure from the trail to another creek that it's roughly following. At around 1.25 miles in, the trail turns right and follows the creek upstream. There are some deeper pools along this section of creek that dogs can easily enjoy (think kiddie pool, more wading than swimming). This section can also require some rock hopping to stay dry especially after heavy rains. After going up the creek just a few hundred feet, the trail crosses over to the left, and scrambles up some boulders. The trail remains rocky for the next few hundred feet, but keep your eyes open near the end of this for the Sand Spring sign and side trail on the left (about 1.5 miles in). This leads a few dozen feet to the actual spring where water is bubbling up through white sand in many spots into the large pool of water. Back on the main trail, it continues for another half mile before reaching a three side rock walled spring and, to the left, the orange blazed Tom Lowe Trail that can be used to make a 5.25 mile loop. Staying on the Sand Spring Trail for another 0.2 miles leads to the Appalachian Trail.