Having the flexibility and willingness to take a small diversion can sometimes turn a good hike into a great hike. I was headed out to complete a small section of the Mountains to Sea Trail in Segment 2 but was fortunate to have the opportunity to explore Fork Ridge Meadows. My initial plan was to begin hiking westward at the MST trailhead off NC 215 and do an out and back to Buckeye Gap (near the Blue Ridge Parkway and Rough Butt Bald Overlook – MP 427).
This wilderness area in Pisgah National Forest is named for the Middle Prong headwaters of the Pigeon River that are found here. When an area is classified as a “Wilderness” area by the National Forest Service, then additional rules for use apply. The goal: reduce as much as possible the impact of human presence. Therefore, there are no signs or blazes, and the trails are maintained at a very minimum level. With this in mind, it is crucial to carry a map and compass and be proficient with these ahead of time. To prepare, I also download some type of GPS map service, but I never rely on that alone. It is also a good idea to study the maps beforehand so you are aware of what trails will be intersecting your primary path.
NC 215 crosses the Blue Ridge Parkway near MP 423. There is a limited gravel parking lot on 215 and some more narrow spots along the side of the road. Once you leave the trailhead, there are no more blazes or signs indicating the MST or other intersecting trails. With some small stream crossings and several primitive camping areas, the actual path can be confusing without a map and/or GPS.
During this time of the year, the majority of the trail is in a dark green tunnel of Rhododendrons and Mountain Laurels. The Rhododendrons are starting to bloom depending on the elevation.
In many areas the trail is easy to see due to the water washout. However, this provides some hazards with all of the exposed roots. In fact, I had my first tumble in a few years, when I tripped over a root on my way down a rocky slope. Thankfully, I found a soft spot to somewhat cushion my fall (and ego).
There are a few minor stream crossings so there is plenty of water available on this hike. Overall, the elevation change is modest from about 5000′ at the trailhead and roughly 5700′ in the middle. It was 4.5 miles one way from NC 215 to Buck Eye Gap. However, on the way back, I decided to take a detour to explore the top of a bald that I had previously passed on my way out.
While hiking westward, the trail takes you below and around a bald which is known as the Fork Ridge Meadows. Upon my return, I found a small, unmarked spur trail headed up the hill. This intersection is less than a quarter of a mile east of the Buckeye Gap Trail intersection and is well hidden. During this time of year it was just about overgrown with brambles. Thankfully you can easily see over the thickets as the path meanders its way to the top of the bald.
The view at the top is well worth the scramble. Mt. Hardy is visible to the south and the Balsam Range to the west. It is also worth noting that the Huckleberry bushes are flourishing at the top, and should be ripe within a few weeks. I only met one other hiker during this weekend trek, so I would guess that this is a great place for solitude.
The detour is obvious on the map above and it did not add much elevation or length to my planned out and back. From the Meadows, head east to pick up the Green Mountain Trail and return back to the Mountains to Sea Trail (less than 0.5 mile). Another option for additional exploring would be to follow the Green Mountain Trail over Fork Ridge for approximately 5 miles to SunBurst.
I had set out to complete a short section of the MST, however Pisgah National Forest has so many areas to explore it was hard to limit myself. I plan on returning someday to explore Mt. Hardy as well as the Green Mountain Trail.
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This is such a great post! I learned so much and I love your pictures.
Very interesting, you’re a great writer!