Hemlock Ridge Trail 7

Total Miles
1.3

Technical Rating

3

Easy

Best Time

Spring, Fall, Summer

Trail Type

60" Trail

Accessible By

Trail Overview

Rated as moderate by the Forest Service, Trail 7 is a wide route that begins on Wayehutta Road just south of the staging area, crossing a small bridge before climbing steadily up the mountain. Riders encounter a sweeping corner followed by a sharp, easy-to-miss hairpin switchback that quickly gains elevation. The early section features an exposed shelf along a hillside, with a slightly off-camber and sloped tread just wide enough for an ATV. Expect small loose rock, roots, and steep rocky climbs in the first mile. As the trail ascends, it transitions into mellower, forested terrain with smoother flow and reduced exposure. It winds along the hillside with a few more gradual switchbacks before connecting with the Sawmill Bottoms Trail 8.

Photos of Hemlock Ridge Trail 7

Hemlock Ridge Trail 7
Hemlock Ridge Trail 7

Difficulty

The most intense part about this trail was the first switchback because it's narrow and exposed. It has steep rocky climbs that add additional challenge, but overall it is still an easy trail.

Technical Rating

3

Status Reports

There are no status reports yet for this trail.

Access Description

There is a large staging area on Wayehutta Road near the town of Cullowhee, NC, large enough for trailers. The daily or seasonal pass can be obtained from the Nantahala Ranger District Office in Franklin, or through local vendors. The trails are open April 1 through December 15. The trails are open to OHVs 60" or less.

Hemlock Ridge Trail 7 Map

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