2 m away
John Rock
A classic trail run from the fish hatchery with phenomenal views from John Rock.
Moderate Trail Running
- Distance
- 9.3 km
- Ascent
- 409 m
- Descent
- 409 m
An incredibly challenging trail run requiring the use of fixed ropes to ascend Cedar Rock Mountain.
Trail Running Extreme
When Cedar Rock comes up in conversation, nearly everyone thinks of the trail in Dupont- a west-coast style slickrock trail with astounding views. Just a short drive down the road and lesser visited, Cedar Rock Mountain in Pisgah National Forest offers an epic trail running experience with views that rival other overlook trails in the region. Though all these trails are dog friendly, we highly recommend leaving your four-legged friend at home for this one.
This run begins the same trailhead as the classic John Rock loop. Leaving the Fish Hatchery, the trail crosses the river and follows Cat Gap Loop southwest. At the junction with Butter Gap, take the right and follow it to Cedar Rock.
Butter Gap Trail terminates at a rather confusing trail junction. The Art Loeb, Cedar Rock Mountain Trail, and two old roads intersect here, and several side trails lead to nearby campsites. Art Loeb thru-hikers often choose this area for an overnight stop. Rumor has it that Cedar Rock Mountain Trail was the original route for the Art Loeb, which now skirts around the base of the rock.
Up to now, nearly the entire route is runnable. If you brought trekking poles, now is the time to stash them. Ahead, a series of fixed ropes assists hikers and runners through multiple class 3 and 4 slabs, all of which can be navigated without climbing gear. As you ascend, don't forget to turn around and soak in the unadulterated views of the Balsam Range in the distance.
As you approach the high point of Cedar Rock Mountain, be mindful of the countless side trails that lead off the path. Rock climbers frequent the eastern face of Cedar Rock and many of these trails lead to climbing routes, where appropriate gear is required. After cresting the summit, the trail descends steeply and merges back onto the Art Loeb.
Heading northeast, the route crosses through two more intersections, both with limited trail markings. For the most adventurous trail runners out there, pay a visit to John Rock to finish up your loop. An exposed vista with views towards Pink Beds Valley make this a popular destination for the entire family.
Extreme
2 m away
A classic trail run from the fish hatchery with phenomenal views from John Rock.
Moderate Trail Running
2.7 km away
A short trail run originating at a picnic area along the Davidson River.
Moderate Trail Running
3.4 km away
A staple trail running loop with a 150' cascading waterfall.
Moderate Trail Running
6.4 km away
A classic trail run in a high mountain valley with two waterfalls.
Moderate Trail Running
6.5 km away
A short, quiet trail running loop near town.
Moderate Trail Running
6.5 km away
A challenging trail run through dense tunnels of rhododendron.
Difficult Trail Running
7.8 km away
A beautiful, relatively flat run through the historic Pink Beds Valley.
Easy Trail Running
9.4 km away
A challenging and incredibly-steep approach to Shining Rock.
Severe Trail Running
9.4 km away
An incredible trail run across bald summits and exposed overlooks.
Difficult Trail Running
12 routes · Trail Running
6 routes · Trail Running