| Graveyard Ridge Trail &
Graveyard Fields Loop |
The Graveyard Fields area is located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at about mile post 420, which is just south of the intersection of US276. This is a very popular area because of the scenic views as well as the pristine river and nice waterfalls that are easily available from the parkway. The majority of the day visitors stay within 1/4 mile of the parkway and well out of your way if you plan to hike in this area. Don't let the full parking lot scare you away! There are a maze of trails located in this area, and if you are adventurous, the trails lead into the popular and very lovely Shining Rock Wilderness area. |
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There are no graveyards in the Graveyard Fields. Supposedly, the area got it's name from trees that were toppled by wind, or clear cut and the remaining stumps grew over with grass and moss, reminding the locals of a large graveyard.
The entire area was devistated by wildfires in both the '20s and '40s and the combination of those wildfires has left this area unable to regrow the large trees that once populated the mountains. There seems to be a great deal of water in the area, so you should not have to worry about dehydration. As always, you should plan to filter or treat your water before drinking. |
A couple things to keep in mind if you plan to hike here, and especially if you plan to push deeper into the Shining Rock Wilderness area: First, the trails are not marked well if at all. you should definately carry a good map and know where you plan to hike before you set out. Second, and you might not normally think of this when going out hiking, but be sure to bring sun block for a sunny day. We made the mistake of leaving ours at home and got burnt on out arms and necks. We are not used to hiking in the open fields, without the cover of trees, and the sun got to us before we realized it. |
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These trails are very scenic, with nice views of several large mountains, including Black Balsam and Tennent mountains. If you hike a little farther, you will have views, or possibly reach Shining Rock and Cold mountains. The trails are surprisingly easy; we were expecting the Ridge trail to be much more difficult then it was. These trails can be combined into a very pleasant 7+/- mile, out and back hike. There are also a few other well known trails all leading through this area including the well known Mountains to Sea trail, the Art loeb trail and the Investor Gap trail. Again, be sure to know your way when you come to the trail intersections. To see our pictures, follow this link. |