Near Graybeard/Harry Bryan/Julia Woodward Loop
Across the Sanctuary Pond on a sunny winter day.
Near Graybeard/Harry Bryan/Julia Woodward Loop
Bridge over Flat Creek at the Graybeard Trailhead

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Hike Route

Graybeard/Harry Bryan/Julia Woodward Loop

4.0 (5 Ratings)
A wonderful, short, loop hike off of Greybeard Trail. Great way to spend a quick hour or so in the woods.
1.2
mi
Distance
277
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Fall ColorsRiver/Creek

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
1.19mi
Distance
277ft
Elevation Gain
277ft
Elevation Loss
35%
Max Grade
3,287ft
High Point
3,006ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
The trails are on privately owned property and maintained by Montreat Conference Center but are open to the public as hike-at-your-own-risk trails. From the small parking area, start up the Graybeard Trail, following the blue diamonds for approximately a mile until you come to the Harry Bryan Trail on your left, marked by yellow diamonds. Follow Harry Bryan Trail for roughly a half mile until you come to the Julia Woodward Trail (White Diamonds). Here, you can turn right and head up the Julia Woodward Trail for another half mile into a rocky cliff area and just sit and enjoy the quiet surroundings, or just head back down the valley by turning left on to the Julia Woodward Trail and following the trail markers back to the parking area.
History & Background
The Little Slaty Branch at one time was the water source for the village of Montreat--you'll see the original old iron feed pipes, some of which are still in use bringing water to the Sanctuary pond just above the parking area.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Jim Fuller