South Mills River Trail, Pisgah National Forest

Completing this trail was a significant accomplishment for me because I was able to connect the dots to complete the Pisgah 400 Challenge, a challenge to hike all 400 miles of trail in the Pisgah Ranger District. I have hiked both ends of the S Mills River Trail multiple times but never hiked the middle section from Wolf Ford to Cantrell Creek, so had to repeat the previous bits to hike the middle section. Information on the trail’s condition was scarce, aside from mentions of damage from Hurricane Helene, and due to its remote location, little to no maintenance or repairs had been done. I decided to give it a go, thinking that I would just turn around if things got too sketchy.

The weather couldn’t have been more perfect on the mild sunny June day I had decided to hike. Mr N helped me with the logistics of leaving my car at Turkey Pen Trailhead and driving me another 45 minutes to Wolf Ford Horse Camp. I started hiking a little after 8:30 and was soon passing beautiful Otter Hole though unfortunately no otters were sighted. I was prepared for 12 wet crossings of South Mills River and hoped that with little recent rainfall they would be manageable.

All crossings were no more than knee high and fairly easy with the exception of #6. It was deep in the middle and the current quite strong. I had read other reports of it being chest high, but it only came up to the top of my thigh. Unfortunately, the rocks were extremely slippery causing me to fall and get dunked. No harm and the water was refreshing! I definitely recommend footwear and trekking poles for these crossings!

There were some blowdowns, but all could be climbed under, over or around quite easily. I did notice that work has commenced on clearing the debris, particularly as I neared Turkey Pen. The trail was a little overgrown in sections but not bad. All of the bridges were destroyed in Helene and have not been replaced yet.

I thoroughly enjoyed this trail and the peaceful solitude it offered. I encountered only a single hiker and a small group of campers near the end. There were many fascinating sights along the way, especially the native flora, which always captures my interest.

Completing the Pisgah 400 challenge was incredibly rewarding, and I plan to keep exploring these trails for as long as I am able. I am so grateful to live in such a beautiful area.