Hardtimes Connector Trail

0.9 mi - Easy - This is a rather straight trail that heads in a northeast direction until it ends at Bent Creek Ranch Road (SR 806). The trail climbs gradually from the parking area, and is used mostly by bikers to link trails while avoiding the paved road (SR 806).

Approximate Elevation Change: 70 feet
Blaze: Orange

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

TR 661

Trail Type

Standard/Terra Trail — A trail that has a surface consisting predominantly of the ground and that is designed and managed to accommodate use on that surface.

General Information

Year-round

yes

Multiple-use Trail: Hiking, mountain bike and equestrian use trail. Motorized use prohibited.

Getting There

Directions

This connector trail is in the Bent Creek area, near Lake Powhatan Recreation Area.

Leaving the Pisgah District Ranger Station/Visitor Center parking lot, turn left (south) onto US 276. At the first traffic light, turn left (east) on NC 280. Proceed approximately 12.5 miles, to NC 191 north. Turn left (north) onto NC 191, and then proceed 7.7 miles to Bent Creek Ranch Road (SR 806), which is ½ mile north of the Blue Ridge Parkway, signed for the Recreation Area and at a traffic light. Turn left on Bent Creek Ranch Road and proceed approximately 1½ miles to the Hardtimes parking area, on the left in front of a road gate. The trailhead is beyond the gate, about 200 feet from the paved road, on the left side of the gated (dirt) road.