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
Bittu AliThe Pro Angler with 360 Mirage Drive is Hobie’s top-of-the-line, no compromise human powered Kayak Fishing solution. You will not find a more full-featured and capable pedal drive Fishing Kayak.
Raleigh
Scott WoodThis revolutionary shoe has raised the bar for performance on slippery rocks and boat decks. I’ve used them for wet wading in trout streams and pretty much any time I’m in a boat. They grip wet surfaces like nothing else and dry unbelievably fast.
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
Amy QuinnI’m so glad they’re making these for girls too! I love the sun protection and the graphics are so cute.
Raleigh
Amy QuinnMy son hates wearing sunscreen, which is why he wears this shirt! It’s such high quality, I know we’ll be able to hand it down, which is an added bonus.
Raleigh
