Laurelly Branch Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · Spring · Views · Wildlife

The Laurelly Branch Trail starts from the junction with Middle Fork Trail. From the junction the trail immediately begins climbing up what appears to be an abandoned logging road. As the trail zig-zags and switchbacks you are able to looks out and enjoy some nice views of the forest below. After about 1.5 miles, the trail straightens out following the contours of the hills as it continues climbing up a fairly steady though pretty moderate grade.

A little after two miles along the trail, the abandoned doubletrack becomes a narrower singletrack. It passes a small stream about 2.5 miles in which could be used as a water source (don't forget to treat the water!) and there is a primitive campsite just beyond the stream. About three miles along, the trail meets Laurelly Branch Creek and begins a final steeper climb. The trail levels out as it reaches the ridgeline and meets the North South Trail.

This trail has beautiful scenery and lots of lush vegetation.

Deer, Black Bear, etc.

Hardwood forest with lush vegetation.