29 Nov 2019

Best Hikes in Uwharrie National Forest (NC)

by | posted in: Hiking, National Forests | 2

Uwharrie National Forest Overview

Uwharrie National Forest is the smallest of the 4 National Forests in North Carolina and is located in the middle of the state, just an hour east of Charlotte. Along with nearby Morrow Mountain State Park, there are plenty of enjoyable recreation activities for visitors to enjoy. The best hikes in Uwharrie National Forest are located below.

StateNorth Carolina
Nearest Metro AreaCharlotte, NC
Area Size50, 645 acres
EstablishedJanuary 12, 1961
Hiking Trails101 miles

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Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Best Hikes in Uwharrie National Forest

(*** = best hikes in Uwharrie National Forest)

Badin Lake Trail – 5.6 mile loop
20130514-FS-Unwharrie-006
Badin Lake in the Uwharrie National Forest, Photo by US Forest Service – Southern Region

Loop trail that follows the shore of Badin Lake for half its distance, then loops back through hardwood forest to Cove Boat Ramp.

Dutchmans Creek Trail – 11 miles one-way

There are a couple of interconnecting trails that can be used to create a loop including the Uwharrie National Recreation Trail (below).

Fall Mountain Trail*** – 4.2 mile loop
NC from Morrow Mountain
NC from Morrow Mountain, Photo by Stuart Borrett

Great trail along the Yadkin River and through an old forest in Morrow Mountain State Park next to Uwharrie National Forest. Perfect for the whole family.

Sugarloaf Mountain Trail – 2.9 mile loop

Fairly easy loop up Sugarloaf Mountain with one steep section – recommended to go left at the split.

Uwharrie National Recreation Trail – 19 miles one-way
Uwharrie National Forest Trail
Uwharrie National Forest Trail, Photo by Chris Schieman

Well marked trail with several creek crossings along the way. There are 3 main trailheads to get access to this beautiful hardwood forest.

Featured Image: Badin Lake viewed from Uwharrie National Forest, Photo by Wasrts

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2 Responses

  1. Mark
    |

    A fellow at REI told me about a large rock formation called mitsy or misty rock in Uwharrie national forest. He said it was not well known or visited much. Perhaps off the beaten path a little?
    Do you know what he was talking about?
    If so what trail is it near?

    Thanks.
    mark.lowe@hunterdouglas.com