Pilot Cove-Slate Rock Trail

Pisgah National Forest

Rating: Moderate

The 4.3 mile Pilot Cove-Slate Rock Trail begins by following Slate Rock Creek. This is an easy to moderate grade with several stream crossings. Slate Rock Creek is typical of mountain streams with small cascades and an abundance of mosses and ferns.

Pilot Cove-Slate Rock Trail leaves Slate Rock Creek after almost 3 miles and climbs up Slate Rock Ridge. Here, at the gap, the Pilot Cove Loop intersects to the left. Continue straight ahead and the trail will descend to Pilot Cove. You will pass through some open, grassy fields before crossing the creek. 

You will cross the creek again, then pass the other end of Pilot Cove Loop. Shortly thereafter you will return to FS Road 1206. A left turn onto the road will bring you back to the start, after 1.5 miles. Many hikers opt for a car switch.
Blaze: Blue

Directions:

Follow U.S. Highway 276 north from the Pisgah Ranger Station for 11.5 miles then turn right onto FS Road 1206. Go about 7.5 miles to the concrete bridge that crosses Slate Rock Creek. The trail begins on the left next to the creek.