BLOWING ROCK, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Flat Top Mountain Trail is a rewarding trek with diverse terrain near Moses Cone Manor on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Read more in our hiking guide below.
Where is Flat Top Mountain Trail?
The trailhead of Flat Top Mountain Trail is located at Moses Cone Manor, 6570 Blue Ridge Pkwy., Blowing Rock, N.C.
After parking by the Manor, head left and under the stone bridge. The gravel trail to the right will lead all the way up Flat Top Mountain to its fire tower overlook.
The entire trail is about 5 miles total, or 2.5 miles up and back down.
How difficult is Flat Top Mountain Trail?
Flat Top Mountain Trail is moderately difficult. The trail is not hard to navigate, comprised almost entirely of broad, gravel paths. However, it is a long hike, and the uphill portion of the first half can be challenging. There are no rest benches or shelters, so prepare accordingly.
What is the Flat Top Mountain Trail hike like?
Flat Top Mountain Trail is one of my favorite trails in the High Country region of Western North Carolina. The gorgeous agricultural views are choice, the wide open meadows are impressive and the ascent to the fire tower at the end is unrivaled in the area – although it has some competition in Fryingpan Mountain Lookout Tower a few hours down the parkway.
The trail is also a very popular choice for equestrians. Horses are just as prevalent on the trail as people, even if they leave the climatic tower ascension to their riders.
One of the main quirks of Flat Top Mountain Trail is its series of shortcuts. While in 99% of cases, cutting a switchback is bad trail etiquette, creating erosion and other issues, Flat Top Mountain Trail is almost designed for it. The trail has two established routes: one, the winding gravel path utilized by riders and hikers looking for a longer, gentler trek, and two, the well-trod paths blazed by hikers through the trees. These cuts are well demarcated, and on popular hiking days, it is common to see both routes in utilization.
That said, hiking Flat Top Mountain Trail is not a free-for-all. If you have concerns about the legitimacy of a path, or if the earth looks untrod and soft, you are better off sticking to the gravel.
There are a couple of terrific outlooks along the route. One looks out down Highway 321 toward Lenoir, N.C., offering views of Blowing Rock, N.C.
The top of the fire tower at the trail’s pinnacle grants views of the High Country in all directions. See if you can spot Appalachian State University, Grandfather Mountain and the Sugar Mountain “sugar cube” ski resort.
After your hike, there is also a rich history to explore at Moses Cone Manor. Find more information at www.blueridgeheritage.com/destinations/moses-cone-manor.
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