Trail Overview

This out-and-back trail is a gravel-over-packed-dirt route beginning at Old North Carolina 105 and following a ridge with scenic views on both sides. Around 4.4 miles in, it narrows to a six-foot-wide path near a large camping area, then continues another 1.5 miles as the Mountains-to-Sea hiking trail. Numerous dispersed campsites can be found along Dobson Knob. The road is generally well-maintained, but becomes rougher beyond the seasonal gate.

Photos of Dobson Knob - FS 106

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Difficulty

This gravel-over-hard-packed dirt road is mostly well maintained up to the seasonal gate (coordinates 35.82002, -81.95897). Beyond that point, the surface becomes more natural with small ruts and occasional mudholes after rain.

Technical Rating

Hunter Finnegan

Oct 09, 2026

Open

NormalDustyMuddy/Wet

Trail is primarily dirt trail with decent to minimal clearance to pass in certain areas. Lots of fun with a lot of fun bumps and a good number of spots for small-decent splash puddles, got the truck pretty damn dirty hitting them too. Lots of fun and took us about 20-30 minutes down and same time back. There were Hunter parked here and there for trapping season so be wearing of trucks in the opposite direction will need something clearance to move over for opposite direction traffic. Totally worth the detour off old 105.

Tim Stebner

Jun 26, 2026

2019 Toyota Tacoma

Open

Normal

Drove to find a quieter campsite off of NC105. Found a nice pull off right past the last cell tower (3 total). No other campers seen.

Paul Hickey

Mar 14, 2026

2026 Chevrolet canyon

Open

Chris W-W

Feb 28, 2026

2024 Toyota 4Runner

Temporarily Closed

Closed Gate

Trail closed last mile and a half past cell tower

Timothy Moua

Dec 21, 2025

2008 Toyota Highlander

Open

NormalMuddy/Wet

Trail was in good condition. Passed by a handful of vehicles and people out hiking/camping. Several campsites and some nice views along the way. Very pleasant ride all the way to the end and back. Easy trail. Your mom’s Prius can do it.

Mike Moratti

Nov 23, 2025

2023 Jeep Gladiator

Open

Washboard

Trell was in good shape, some rough spot but easy to manage