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Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area in Collettsville | Map and Routes

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Discover the natural beauty of Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area, located in Collettsville, United States. With its sprawling 7014.5 acres, this park offers a haven for walkers and hikers seeking ...

Discover the natural beauty of Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area, located in Collettsville, United States. With its sprawling 7014.5 acres, this park offers a haven for walkers and hikers seeking an exhilarating outdoor experience. The park features a variety of well-maintained trails, including the North Harper Shortcut, Persimmon Ridge, Yellow Buck Trail, and more, providing options for all levels of hikers. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area has something for everyone. For more information about the park and its routes, users can download Pacer Pedometer, a reliable source for park and route info. Immerse yourself in the picturesque landscapes of Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area as you embark on an adventure through its network of trails. The North Harper Creek Trail, stretching 4.5 miles, offers a captivating journey through lush greenery and serene surroundings. For a shorter but equally rewarding hike, consider exploring the Phillips Branch Trail, a tranquil 0.5-mile path that showcases the park's natural splendor. With routes like Raider Camp Trail and Little Lost Cove Cliffs Trail, visitors can indulge in diverse terrains and captivating vistas. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a nature enthusiast, Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area promises a memorable outdoor experience. For those seeking a blend of tranquility and adventure, Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area is the ideal destination. The park's idyllic setting and array of trails make it a paradise for walking and hiking enthusiasts. Whether you're in search of sweeping mountain views, cascading waterfalls, or serene woodlands, this wilderness area has it all. With a range of route options, from easy strolls to challenging treks, visitors can tailor their outdoor escapades to suit their preferences. Plan your next walking or hiking adventure at Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area and experience the splendor of nature at its finest.

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Walking and Hiking in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area

Located in the beautiful town of Collettsville, the Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area offers a plethora of opportunities for walking and hiking enthusiasts. With essential amenities such as a parking lot, visitors can easily access the park and embark on their outdoor adventures. The park boasts breathtaking viewpoints, including the ...

Located in the beautiful town of Collettsville, the Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area offers a plethora of opportunities for walking and hiking enthusiasts. With essential amenities such as a parking lot, visitors can easily access the park and embark on their outdoor adventures. The park boasts breathtaking viewpoints, including the South Harper Creek Falls Overlook, Little Lost Cove Cliffs, and more, making it an ideal destination for those seeking stunning natural landscapes while engaging in walking or hiking activities. Whether you're a novice looking for a leisurely stroll or a seasoned hiker seeking a challenging trek, Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area has something to suit every walker and hiker's needs. Plan your next outdoor excursion at this remarkable park and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while enjoying invigorating walking and hiking experiences.

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Essential Amenities in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area

Parking lot

Things to See in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area

Viewpoint

South Harper Creek Falls Overlook

Viewpoint

Little Lost Cove Cliffs

Best Walking Routes in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area

#1 - Raider Camp Trail (277) Alt.
1
Length: 0.8 milesEst. Time: 14m

Raider Camp Trail (277) Alt. is a 0.8 mile (2,000-step) route located near Newland, North Carolina. This route has an elevation gain of about 9.8 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2 - North Harper Shortcut (266A)
1
Length: 1 milesEst. Time: 17m

North Harper Shortcut (266A) is a 1 mile (2,500-step) route located near Linville, North Carolina. This route has an elevation gain of about 246 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#3 - Yellow Buck Trail (265)
1
Length: 2.6 milesEst. Time: 44m

Yellow Buck Trail (265) is a 2.6 mile (6,000-step) route located near Collettsville, North Carolina. This route has an elevation gain of about 131.2 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

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Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area Leaderboard

RankingCheck-ins
LINDSEY
5
Josh
1
Chenoa
1
4Chuck
1
5sgreerfulcher
1
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Nearby Parks
Lost Cove Wilderness Study Area
Point Park
Hard & Flossie Clark Family Park
Norris Clifton Park
Linville Gorge Wilderness
Blue Ridge Parkway
Avery County Recreation Complex
Roby Shomaker Wetlands and Family Recreation Park
Waterfalls Park

FAQs About Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area

Where is the best place to walk in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area?

The best place to walk in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area is the North Harper Creek Trail (266) which is 4.5 miles long and takes approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes. This trail is highly recommended by the Pacer community for its scenic views and moderate difficulty.

How many routes are in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area?

Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area offers a total of 11 routes for walking and hiking, providing a variety of options for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and enjoy.

Which is the longest route in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area?

The longest route in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area is the North Harper Creek Trail (266) which spans 4.5 miles. This trail is highly regarded by the Pacer community for its natural beauty and is a great option for those seeking a longer hiking experience.

Are there facilities or amenities for walkers/hikers in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area?

The park offers a parking lot for visitors to park their vehicles before embarking on their walking or hiking adventure.

How accessible is Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area?

Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area is accessible via the parking lot, making it convenient for walkers and hikers to access the trails and viewpoints.

What kind of sports can I do in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area?

In Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area, visitors can enjoy walking and hiking, taking in the beautiful viewpoints such as South Harper Creek Falls Overlook, Little Lost Cove Cliffs, and other scenic spots within the park.

What is the best season to walk in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area?

The best season for walking in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area is typically spring and fall when the weather is milder and the foliage is at its most vibrant.

What are the typical weather conditions to prepare for in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area?

Visitors to Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area should be prepared for a range of weather conditions, including hot and humid summers, cool and crisp falls, and cold winters with potential snowfall. It's important to dress in layers and bring plenty of water and sun protection during the warmer months.

What kind of wildlife might you encounter in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area?

While walking in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area, you might encounter various wildlife such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, black bears, and a variety of bird species. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and respectful of the natural habitat of these animals.

Last updated: Jan 1, 2025

Parks Near Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area

Lost Cove Wilderness Study Area
Point Park
Hard & Flossie Clark Family Park
Norris Clifton Park
Linville Gorge Wilderness
Blue Ridge Parkway
Avery County Recreation Complex
Roby Shomaker Wetlands and Family Recreation Park
Waterfalls Park

Latest Check-ins at Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area

LINDSEYMar 30, 2024
Mar 30, 2024Walking
LINDSEYSep 25, 2022
Sep 25, 2022Walking
LINDSEYOct 16, 2022
Oct 16, 2022Walking
LINDSEYSep 24, 2022
Sep 24, 2022Walking
JoshJul 27, 2023
Jul 27, 2023Running
ChuckSep 19, 2020
Sep 19, 2020Walking
sgreerfulcherJul 6, 2020
Jul 6, 2020Walking
ChenoaJun 13, 2021
Jun 13, 2021Hiking
ChenoaJun 13, 2021
Jun 13, 2021Hiking
LINDSEYOct 15, 2022
Oct 15, 2022Walking
*Latest check-in only shows the last 10 users. Only public activities are eligible. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.

Total Check-ins at Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area

RankingCheck-ins
LINDSEY
5
Josh
1
Chenoa
1
4Chuck
1
5sgreerfulcher
1
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Best Walking Routes in Harper Creek Wilderness Study Area
#1- Raider Camp Trail (277) Alt.
1
Length: 0.8 milesEst. Time: 14m

Raider Camp Trail (277) Alt. is a 0.8 mile (2,000-step) route located near Newland, North Carolina. This route has an elevation gain of about 9.8 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2- North Harper Shortcut (266A)
1
Length: 1 milesEst. Time: 17m

North Harper Shortcut (266A) is a 1 mile (2,500-step) route located near Linville, North Carolina. This route has an elevation gain of about 246 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#3- Yellow Buck Trail (265)
1
Length: 2.6 milesEst. Time: 44m

Yellow Buck Trail (265) is a 2.6 mile (6,000-step) route located near Collettsville, North Carolina. This route has an elevation gain of about 131.2 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#4- North Harper Creek Trail (266)
1
Length: 4.5 milesEst. Time: 1h13m

North Harper Creek Trail (266) is a 4.5 mile (10,000-step) route located near Collettsville, North Carolina. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#5- Phillips Branch Trail (252)
1
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 8m

Phillips Branch Trail (252) is a 0.5 mile (1,000-step) route located near Collettsville, North Carolina. This route has an elevation gain of about 180.4 ft and is rated as hard. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#6- Persimmon Ridge (270)
1
Length: 2 milesEst. Time: 34m

Persimmon Ridge (270) is a 2 mile (4,500-step) route located near Linville, North Carolina. This route has an elevation gain of about 23 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#7- Raider Camp Trail
1
Length: 1.7 milesEst. Time: 29m

Raider Camp Trail is a 1.7 mile (4,000-step) route located near Mortimer, North Carolina. This route has an elevation gain of about 226.3 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#8- Raider Camp Trail (277)
1
Length: 2.3 milesEst. Time: 39m

Raider Camp Trail (277) is a 2.3 mile (5,000-step) route located near Collettsville, North Carolina. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#9- Harper Creek Trail
1
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 5m

Harper Creek Trail is a 0.3 mile (1,000-step) route located near Collettsville, North Carolina. This route has an elevation gain of about 19.7 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#10- N. Harper Creek Falls (239)
1
Length: 1 milesEst. Time: 17m

N. Harper Creek Falls (239) is a 1 mile (2,500-step) route located near Newland, North Carolina. This route has an elevation gain of about 209.9 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#11- Little Lost Cove Cliffs Trail (271A)
1
Length: 1.2 milesEst. Time: 21m

Little Lost Cove Cliffs Trail (271A) is a 1.2 mile (3,000-step) route located near Newland, North Carolina. This route has an elevation gain of about 85.3 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

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