Sleepy Gap Trail
0.9 mi - Moderate - For the most part, this trail travels through hardwood forests with some rhododendron. It first drops rather steeply to Beaten Branch, then somewhat less steeply to FS 479M (South Ridge Road) and then Explorer Loop (#337). *Only the trail segment north of FS 479M is open to bikes. There are no outstanding views, though in the wintertime; you may catch glimpses of Asheville on clear days. Mountain bikes find the northern section of this trail pleasant when combined with FS 479M, which is an easy, long (7.8-mile) dirt road; and/or Explorer Loop, a 3-mile trail of moderate difficulty. Due to the number of other trails and roads in the area, a map is vital until you are familiar with the trail system.
Approximate Elevation Change: 700 feet
Blaze: Red
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Trail Type
General Information
Year-round
no
Hiking Trail: Foot traffic (Sections of trail open for mountain bike use).
Address: 1600 Pisgah Highway Pisgah Forest , NC 28768
Phone: (828) 877-3265
Hours: Peak Season Hours (April 1-Nov. 15) 9 AM-5 PM daily; Off-season Hours (Nov. 16-March 31) 9 am-5 pm M-F (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: sm.fs.pisgahrd@usda.gov
Getting There
Directions
This is an easy loop trail which is a nice family excursion. The first part of the trail follows Bent Creek, and is part of the Bent Creek Demonstration Forest "Habitat Hike". You will see interpretive signs explaining various types of habitat and the plants and animals most likely to be found. The trail then becomes a grass road which crosses a wildlife field before climbing gradually to reveal some nice views of the surrounding area. The last section of the trail will bring you back through an upland hardwood forest and past another wildlife field before descending to the beach road 100 yards from where you started. Be sure to check your map for other trails in the area which provide loop opportunities.
Additional Information
Operated By
US Forest Service
