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A beautiful backcountry trail that follows the Linville River; it is abundant with life.


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Map Key

14.0

Miles

22.5

KM

90%

Runnable

3,270' 997 m

High

1,254' 382 m

Low

3,096' 944 m

Up

1,080' 329 m

Down

6%

Avg Grade (3°)

32%

Max Grade (18°)

Dogs Off-leash

Features Birding · Cave · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Hunting and fishing are allowed but permits are required. Camping is permitted in the gorge, but permits are required from May 1 through October 31.

Description

The Linville Gorge Trail makes up the entire western portion of the Linville Gorge Wilderness Loop. This is considered the most strenuous portion of the loop, and is not recommended for novice runners as the trail is poorly marked (if at all) in many locations. Maps and a compass are strongly recommended or be sure to use the Trail Run Project mobile app.

Runners will notice a great number of fallen trees in the area, due to the Southern Pine Beetle infestation.

This trail follows the Linville River for the most part, providing ample locations to replenish water. As always, please remember to use a filter - never drink water directly from the source.

Flora & Fauna

Local flora - rhododendron, sand mrtyle, red chokeberry, azalea, turkey beard, bristly locust, yellow root, silverbell, orchids, ninebark, and wild indigo.

Local fauna - white-tail deer, black bears, squirrel, raccoon, grouse, turkey, vultures, owls, hawks, as well as brown and rainbow trout. As for snakes, there are copperheads and timber rattlesnakes. Smaller fish and crawfish can also be found in the river.

Contacts

Shared By:

Max Willner

Trail Ratings

  4.7 from 9 votes

#991

Overall
  4.7 from 9 votes
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Trail Rankings

#991

Overall
13 Views Last Month
4,493 Since Nov 29, 2015
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Photos

Rapids on the Linville River
Nov 20, 2017 near Spruce…, NC
Don't be afraid to wander off on some barely traveled side trails when you decide it's time to set up camp. Often times you'll find some very rewarding sites.
Feb 4, 2017 near Spruce…, NC
Linville River Wet Crossing
Mar 9, 2021 near Spruce…, NC
The occasional river crossing is necessary - be sure to bring trekking poles and a waterproof bag!
Nov 20, 2015 near Glen Al…, NC
The occasional river crossing is necessary - be sure to bring trekking poles and a waterproof bag!
Nov 20, 2015 near Glen Al…, NC

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Check-Ins

May 5, 2017
Derrick Williams
Absolutely Gnarly trail with some well earned sights. Some of the trail was actually a creek and once you get down to the river it is beautiful. 6mi
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