HikeWNC Trail Details: Laurel River
Description
This trail follows an old railroad bed along the Laurel River to its junction with the French Broad river at the ghost town of Runion. This trail is especially scenic in early spring when there are many wildflowers blooming along the path and riverbanks. The trail is an old railroad bed which used to carry logs to the Runion sawmill in the 1920's, and as such, is mostly level. The Laurel River is quite large and scenic by this point, and it's popular with boaters and fishermen. A few small streams flow across the trail at various points, and bluffs tower over the river making the valley narrow and enclosed. The trail ends at the former town of Runion. In its heyday, Runion was home to more than 1,000 people. Brick chimneys and crumbling foundations still remain - one of the few "ghost towns" in North Carolina.
Details
Trailhead: Hot Springs
Overall Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 3.6mi
Steepness: Climbs Gently
Tread Condition: Some Obstacles
USGS/USFS Number: 310
Allowed Uses: Hiking, Mountain Biking
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