Woody Ridge Trailhead - Burnsville, NC
Woody Ridge Trailhead in Burnsville, NC is a premier dog-friendly hiking destination offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for active pet owners. This trail, known as the shortest steepest hike in Western North Carolina, features a strenuous 2.5-mile climb with a dramatic elevation gain of 3000 feet. It is ideal for those seeking an invigorating workout alongside their canine companion, with the trail winding through diverse plant life and rhododendron trees, offering occasional breathtaking views.
Though not wheelchair accessible, Woody Ridge Trailhead boasts pet-friendly trails perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking for an intense trail experience near Burnsville. The natural spring located about a mile up is a useful amenity for hikers and their dogs, although caution is advised due to slippery leaves and steep sections. Parking is limited to a few spots at the trailhead cul-de-sac but offers easy access for visitors.
Whether you’re a local or visiting, this dog park in Burnsville, NC provides a unique opportunity to enjoy dog-friendly hiking amidst nature’s beauty. The rugged terrain and scenic overlook points make it a favorite spot for outdoor lovers and their dogs, ensuring a fulfilling outdoor adventure in a pet-friendly environment.
FAQ for Woody Ridge Trailhead in Burnsville North Carolina:
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? No, the entrance is not wheelchair accessible.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are hiking trails including an out and back trail that is very steep and challenging, climbing 3000 feet vertically over 2.5 miles with rewarding views.
- Where is the best place to park? Parking is limited to about four or five spots at the trailhead on a road with no outlet, located at a cul-de-sac which allows easy turning around.
Reviews
Trailhead on a road with no outlet and at the cul-de-sac there is a few parking spots.
Parking for four or five cars, and easy to turn around
Husband, twelve-year-old dog and I summitted this type two fun hike to the ridge in approximately two hours. The climb is steep and satisfying, lined with running water and rhododendron trees. Highly recommend, chef’s kiss.
This is a hard-core work out trail there is no easy part. The trail is very steep with rewarding views as you approach the top. You go up 3000 Feet vertical over 2.5 miles. As you go up you will see the plants change as you climb in elevation. We hiked it in the fall and the leaves were slippery. My self and my dog fell several times. The trail kicked both our butts. As the sign warns at the bottom be per paired, you will be alone, and your phone may not work. Bring some water although there is a spring about 1 mile up. Don’t bring lots of water unless you want to punish yourself remember you do have to carry it up and carry your bottles out.
Update: Wife and I recently hiked here again and it’s still just as steep and just as awesome!
Properly nicknamed the shortest steepest hike in WNC. It’s 2.5 miles of leg burning goodness and 3000 ft elevation change and only two spots with good views. First good overlook is about 3/4 ways up and other is at the top, where it connects to the Black Mountain Crest trail.