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An amazing old growth loop hike in the Joyce Kilmer Wilderness.


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Map Key

1.7

Miles

2.7

KM

Lollipop

2,550' 777 m

High

2,189' 667 m

Low

364' 111 m

Up

364' 111 m

Down

8%

Avg Grade (5°)

19%

Max Grade (11°)

Dogs Leashed

Features River/Creek

One section of the lower loop is closed due to recent wildfire. Access to the upper loop is still possible.

Overview

This is a moderate trail only due to rocks and roots. Enjoy beautiful old growth trees with a short loop hike.

Need to Know

A restroom and picnic tables are located at the trailhead.

Description

This forest is one of the nation’s most impressive remnants of old-growth forest. The forest contains magnificent examples of more than 100 tree species, many over 400-years-old, and some more than 20 feet in circumference and 100 feet tall.

This 3,800-acre forest was set aside in 1936 as a memorial to the author of the poem “Trees,” Joyce Kilmer, who was killed in action in France during World War I. Part of the Joyce Kilmer-Slick Rock Wilderness, the woods are maintained in their primitive state.

The only way to see this forest is on foot. A 2-mile trail leads to the Joyce Kilmer Memorial and loops through the giant trees.

Flora & Fauna

Giant trees such as hemlocks, oaks and maples. Rhododendrons, mountain laurels and ferns. Many species of birds.

Contacts

Shared By:

Fliers with improvements by Jean-Claude Linossi

Trail Ratings

  4.6 from 9 votes

#2423

Overall
  4.6 from 9 votes
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Recommended Route Rankings

#2,423

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Photos

Old growth tree
Apr 30, 2018 near Robbins…, NC
Creek
Apr 30, 2018 near Robbins…, NC
Joyce Kilmer's Trees Poem
Apr 30, 2018 near Robbins…, NC
Map
Apr 30, 2018 near Robbins…, NC

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 45 days ago
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Check-Ins

Sep 8, 2024
Nathan Cofer
Oct 22, 2020
Edward Rodriguez
Beautiful leisurely hike through an old growth forrest with spectacular fall foliage 1.7mi
Oct 6, 2020
Shane Autrey
Jul 20, 2020
John Weeks
Stunning trees 2mi — 2h 00m
Oct 21, 2019
Zap Brannigan
Dogs, walk and run 1.9mi
May 21, 2019
dee angel
Apr 5, 2019
Willie Owens
Nov 11, 2018
Mike Ankner
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