Black Mountain Trail 3

Trail 3 is a frequently used, rocky trail that winds through a beautifully forested section of the Nantahala. The surface includes small loose rocks and moderate curves, and the trail is noticeably worn and troughed below the forest floor. The route hugs the hillside along a narrow shelf trail lined with tall, slender trees like hophornbeam and beech. The trail is often covered in leaves and fallen sticks. Several intersections appear along the way, but they're all clearly marked, helping riders stay on course. Expect a few waterbars and typical East Coast texture under your tires--nothing too technical, but enough to keep things interesting. It's mostly a steep descent from east to west, shortcutting between segments of Trail 1 and accessing the more difficult Trail 6.