This 5-miler begins from the Visitor Center through a hardwood forest, crosses busy Sparrow Springs Road, then disappears back into the woods. You’re in for another mile and a half of mellow climbing along the western flank of Crowders Mountain. At the Backside Trail, the hike gets serious. A steep climb finally gives in to stairs: within four-tenths of a mile you’ll gain 360 vertical feet.
Expert Picks
Scott WoodWhy is a shoe in the travel section? Because, I never knew what shoes to wear to the airport until these came along. They are super comfortable, light, slip on and off easily for TSA, and yet are totally fine for the hotel gym, a morning run or even an unplanned hike. This is the way to go for travel.
Raleigh
Rich ChisholmSuch an easy and fast way to purify water on the trail or on a trip. Easily the fastest and most user friendly water treatment system I have used.
Chapel Hill
Amy QuinnThese flip-flops are so comfortable! Even my husband, who does not like flip-flops, wears these.
Raleigh
Amy QuinnI love this shirt! Nice and lightweight, and not too clingy for those hot summer days. I especially love the floral print!
Raleigh
Rich ChisholmMy workhorse harness ‘biner- big enough for everything you need to clip to it. Hot forged with a bomber lock.
Chapel Hill
Scott WoodFishing the Southern Appalachians in the summer is always done before, after or during a thunderstorm. Simms has taken the handy sling pack we all love and made it totally waterproof with submersible zippers. No more wet dry flies and soggy sandwiches.
Raleigh
Amy QuinnThis is such a great basic tee. It fits so well that I just keep coming back for more colors!
Raleigh
Scott WoodI was a Hoka skeptic until I tried a pair. After half a century of hiking and running in the woods the knees and feet just aren’t what they used to be. Problem solved. The Speedgoat takes all the pain out of fast hiking and trail running with no loss of stability and grip. Truly a game changer.
Raleigh
