Take a long and remote journey up and down challenging mountains in the Shining Rock and Middle Prong Wilderness.
This hike makes use of several more remote and rugged trails and a few more popular ones to complete a difficult 21 mile loop. I chose to go clockwise, up Fork Ridge and back down Green Mountain. Either direction you go, you will make long and steep climbs to gain nearly 5,000ft of elevation and lose nearly as much. The action is immediate on Fork Ridge, as you cross the West Fork of the Pigeon River to reach the trailhead proper. Depending on the weather, it can be an easy boots off wade across or a more challenging crossing in higher water. Once across the river, you will follow the narrow and overgrown trail for about .5 miles before starting the climb up. Over the next 3 miles you’ll gain nearly 2,000ft of elevation before you get a little break and an easier climb to reach the top of Birdstand Mtn. The trail gradually becomes much less steep as you complete the last few miles to reach the Ivestor Gap Trail. I didn’t see anyone on Fork Ridge, but there were plenty of people around the moment I reached Ivestor Gap.
I continued down the gravel Ivestor Gap trail, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding balds and distant peaks. The previous climb left me thirsty, so I stopped to refill on water from one of the two piped springs. Just under two miles, the trail ends at the crowded parking area, and I immediately crossed over and started down the Flat Laurel Creek Trail.
I set up camp for the night towards the bottom of the Flat Laurel Creek Trail, just past Wildcat falls. I was disappointed to find food and trash someone before me left, and also surprised to find a trail camera in use at the campsite. I got up early and hit the trail at 7am, carrying the extra weight I found at the campsite.
Crossing over Highway 215 and up the road a short ways, I picked up a spur trail that would take me to the next section that follows the Mountains to Sea Trail. A gentle climb through an enchanting and misty forest eventually led me to the Green Mountain trail. I checked out a few potential campsites for future visits, and continued on to what would be the last few short but steep climbs on the rugged trail, eventually reaching Green Knob. I took a break here to enjoy the views and explore a bit. The next 3 miles are a descent down the ridge of Green Mountain, one of the steepest trails in the area. With no switchbacks to be found and thick leaf litter, caution is mandatory to avoid tumbling down this beast. After carefully navigating down I started to hear traffic and before I knew it I was back on the road and closed the loop. This was a very difficult but rewarding hike, and I found the solitude I was looking for.
It is important to note that both the Fork Ridge and Green Mountain trails are true wilderness areas. There are no signs, blazes and the trail may be overgrown and obstructed by fallen trees and can be challenging to navigate at some times. A map and compass are a must as well as being self reliant in an emergency situation.