[link-kmz urlbase=”crowders09/crowders_mountain_west”] [link-gpx urlbase=”crowders09/crowders_mountain_sp”] [link-maps googlemapsurl=”http://maps.google.com/maps?daddr=35.2133242,-81.2935888+(parking+area)&saddr=&ie=UTF8&ll=35.213324,-81.293589&spn=0.065777,0.091667&z=13″ location=”the trailhead”]

Trail Description

Beginning at the trail-head, a wide path leads into the forest. Following the orange blazes, the trail comes upon a junction – continue right, following Crowders Trail. After descending to cross a couple of creeks, the trail with head back uphill and cross Freedom Mill Road. Once across the road, the trail slowly winds up and around the north eastern side of crowders mountain. The next 1.5 miles is the easiest segment of the hike with long flat sections and gentle undulations. Crowders Trail ends at the Backside Trail – take a right and continue up to the stairs and follow them up to the trail’s end. Tremendous views can be had at the top of the cliffs making this a good place to take a break.

When ready to head back down, follow the red blazed Rocktop Trail to the mountain summit. Here you will negotiate around the collection of tv transmission towers and meet up with the beginning of the Tower Trail. Stay to the left, following the red blazing, and proceed down the ridge. After crossing the Tower Trail, there will be several sections that can only be passed by making your way up and over large boulders. Before reaching the end, there is one steep section that is fairly strenuous and rocky. The trail ends back at Freedom Mill Road – cross the road and rejoin Crowders Trail to return to the parking area.

The combination of Crowders Trail and the Rocktop Trail make for an challenging trek up to the summit of Crowders Mountain. At a medium pace it should take around 3 hours to hike the entire loop.

Trail Data

[gps-data-up distance=”5″ elevationdifference=”760″ climb=”1725″ descent=”1650″ time=”3 hours round-trip”]

Trail Map

[gps-iframe urlbase=”crowders09/crowders_02″ height=”496″]

Trail Elevation Profile

[gps-elevation trailname=”Crowders Trail / Backside Trail / Rocktop Trail” urlbase=”/crowders09/crowders_02″]

Trial Photos