North River Rd to Upper Santeetlah - 81

Total Miles 4.9
Technical Rating
2 Easy
Best Time Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Trail Type Full-Width Road
Accessible By
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Trail Overview

This trek starts at North River which is a well-maintained gravel road and then transitions to the Upper Santeetlah(81) trail which is less maintained. The Upper Santeetlah is not too bad and can be navigated by 2WD vehicles but you would need to go slow...make note that it is narrow in places. Lots of places to camp along this route and I believe you can disperse camp. The views can be awesome, especially in the fall when the leaves are off the trees. Towards the end of this trek, the road runs next to Santeetlah Creek where you will see lots of awesome waterfalls. There is no cell service (Verizon). https://youtube.com/@gladventures/

Photos of North River Rd to Upper Santeetlah - 81

Difficulty

This trail is not too difficult but can be rutted in places and rough.

Technical Rating

2

Status Reports

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Steven Miller
May 23, 2026
Open
Many campers along the route but just a few other drivers. Gravel road is in good but wet condition.
Kevin Herndon
Feb 27, 2026
Open
Dan Renegar
Jun 21, 2025
Open
No issues. Trail is in good shape and easy to traverse.
Andy Creager
Mar 16, 2025
Open
P Guest
Jul 02, 2023
Open

North River Rd to Upper Santeetlah - 81 Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • Single Track
  • 50 Inch
  • 60 Inch
  • High Clearance
  • Full Width

North River Rd to Upper Santeetlah - 81 Map

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