Uwharrie Trail Extension

From the Jumping Off Rock Trailhead parking lot, turn left (west) on the paved road and cross the bridge over Barnes Creek. Look for the sign and trail on the right side of the road and follow it into the woods. The trail climbs onto a low ridge and follows it until dropping down the far side and joining an old road bed that crosses Poison Fork. Rock-hopping across the creek is usually possible just upstream of the crossing. The trail then parallels Poison Fork for a half mile before turning left to follow another old road bed uphill. At a rock cairn and steps, the trail turns right off the old road and climbs around the shoulder of Little Long Mountain. At the top, visitors can enjoy 360-degree views of the Uwharrie Lakes Region. An AT-style shelter is located on the top of the mountain. The trail descends off the north side of Little Long Mountain, crosses a gravel road at the Joe Moffitt Trailhead, and then climbs to the top of King Mountain, the highest point on the Uwharrie Trail. The trail then runs along a ridge to the north before descending to the Luther Trailhead, not far from Pisgah Covered Bridge Road. This trail is a recently recovered section of the historic Uwharrie Trail route. Thanks to Don Childrey for sharing this description. Learn more about the 200+ miles of trail winding through this region of rivers, lakes, and ancient mountains in the heart of North Carolina's Piedmont - check out the Uwharrie Lakes Region Trail Guide.