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Mountains to Sea Trail: Blowing Rock to Basin Cove Overlook (Section 5)
Hiking Trail
Hard
50.54 mi
7,177 ft
The MST as it passes through North Carolina's high country.
Sometimes referred to as "Section 5," this portion of the Mountains to Sea Trail showcases North Carolina's beautiful high country. Endless views await as you traverse a long winding ridge lined with historic farmlands.
The western terminus lies on the Blue Ridge Parkway as it heads east out of Blowing Rock. The majority of this segment follows the Blue Ridge Parkway corridor, frequently crossing it and occasionally following the shoulder. Portions of the trail may pass through fields or unpaved back roads along the way.
About 1/3rd of the way into the segment, the trail passes through Deep Gap, along US-421. Ample roadside parking is available, and this area is popular among day hikers looking for a relaxing out-and-back trip. Thru-hikers should take the opportunity to head northwest on the road to resupply in town. Water is abundant in the region, but the opportunity to resupply on food is limited.
This segment ends at an overlook at the Blue Ridge Parkway labeled on a map as the Basin Cove Overlook (some maps refer to this as the Devil's Garden Overlook). A large map at the overlook provides detailed information on Doughton Park Trail System, the next step for the 1,200-mile long trail.
Sources:
Written by Brendon Voelker
Sometimes referred to as "Section 5," this portion of the Mountains to Sea Trail showcases North Carolina's beautiful high country. Endless views await as you traverse a long winding ridge lined with historic farmlands.
The western terminus lies on the Blue Ridge Parkway as it heads east out of Blowing Rock. The majority of this segment follows the Blue Ridge Parkway corridor, frequently crossing it and occasionally following the shoulder. Portions of the trail may pass through fields or unpaved back roads along the way.
About 1/3rd of the way into the segment, the trail passes through Deep Gap, along US-421. Ample roadside parking is available, and this area is popular among day hikers looking for a relaxing out-and-back trip. Thru-hikers should take the opportunity to head northwest on the road to resupply in town. Water is abundant in the region, but the opportunity to resupply on food is limited.
This segment ends at an overlook at the Blue Ridge Parkway labeled on a map as the Basin Cove Overlook (some maps refer to this as the Devil's Garden Overlook). A large map at the overlook provides detailed information on Doughton Park Trail System, the next step for the 1,200-mile long trail.
Sources:
Written by Brendon Voelker
Created By
Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| MST - Sandpit Branch Climb | 0.41 mi | 187 ft | 8.5% |
| MST - US 421 to Firescale Mountain | 1.90 mi | 627 ft | 6.2% |