Slate Rock had been on my hiking radar for a long time, beckoning a return visit. My previous encounter was unfortunately overshadowed by a typical summer thunderstorm, which, to put it mildly, dampened the experience. Slate Rock, a prominent feature in Pisgah National Forest, is a pluton – a massive, bare granite dome sculpted by ancient volcanic forces in the Southern Appalachians. While perhaps lesser-known compared to other plutons in the region due to its smaller size, Slate Rock arguably offers equally stunning panoramic views. From its exposed ledges, hikers are rewarded with a 180-degree spectacle encompassing the iconic Pilot Rock, the expansive Pink Beds valley nestled at a high elevation, and a multitude of majestic peaks and ranges stretching towards the north and west.
Typically, the ascent to Slate Rock favors a westerly approach, a route I took during my prior hike, involving a concise 3.5-mile loop. However, seeking a more extended and immersive trek this time, I opted for an easterly route. This path ascends through the valley carved by Slate Rock Creek, traverses southward across Slate Rock itself, and concludes with a road walk along Yellow Gap Road, culminating in a more fulfilling 7-mile adventure. Fortunately, clear skies prevailed on this occasion, allowing me to fully appreciate the views that were obscured during my rain-soaked previous visit. So, let’s embark on this hike to Slate Rock!
Navigating the trail names in this area can be a bit perplexing. The majority of this hike unfolds on the Pilot Cove-Slate Rock Trail. Despite its suggestive name, this trail curiously bypasses Slate Rock, instead charting a northerly arc to connect the valleys east and west of it. Adding to the nomenclature puzzle, the trail that actually leads across Slate Rock is inexplicably labeled the Pilot Cove Loop Trail – again, named after a landmark it doesn’t directly reach, except for its southern starting point at the Pilot Cove-Slate Rock Trail junction. While the rationale behind these trail names remains elusive, it’s crucial to be aware of this quirk before setting off, lest you find yourself scratching your head in the woods, wondering about the trail’s intended destination.
My hike commenced at the eastern trailhead for the Pilot Cove-Slate Rock Trail, situated along Yellow Gap Road (Forest Road 1206). The trailhead is conveniently located approximately 5 miles west of the North Mills River Campground or 6.7 miles east of U.S. 276. The trail begins from a small parking area adjacent to Slate Rock Creek, which it accompanies for the initial two miles of the hike. This section exemplifies a classic Pisgah streamside path, gradually ascending alongside the creek and meandering through a consistent environment of rhododendron thickets and hardwood forest, typical of the area’s moderate elevation changes. A notable highlight along this stretch is Slate Rock Creek Falls, which the trail passes just above, a mere half-mile from the start. While Slate Rock Creek Falls might not compete in grandeur with larger cascades in the vicinity, standing at only around a dozen feet, it nonetheless offers a pleasant pause and a scenic spot to appreciate the tranquil sounds of falling water.
Continuing upstream from the waterfall, the surrounding landscape maintains its character. The gentle ascent gradually steepens around the 1.5-mile mark as the trail embarks on its final climb towards the valley head. At the 2-mile point, Slate Rock Creek is crossed via a sturdy log bridge. Approximately half a mile further, the trail crests the ridge and intersects with the northern terminus of the Pilot Cove Loop Trail.
Upon turning left onto the Pilot Cove Loop Trail, the route shifts direction, heading south and east, undulating along the ridge. After roughly three-quarters of a mile, this path culminates at the magnificent Slate Rock itself. Here, the trail emerges onto expansive, bare rock ledges, sparsely dotted with resilient pines that seem to sprout directly from the stone. The ledges predominantly face north and west, providing awe-inspiring vistas of the neighboring Pilot Rock and stretching down the length of the Pink Beds valley. As with any visit to a pluton in this region, caution is advised. The rock ledges can be slippery, often crisscrossed by trickles of water seeping from the forest above. A misstep here could have serious consequences. However, with mindful steps and a bit of prudence, you can safely relish the panoramic beauty. After soaking in the views, enjoying a snack, and capturing numerous photos, it’s time to complete the loop.
The Pilot Cove Loop Trail departs uphill and at a sharp 90-degree angle to the left from the point where it initially reaches the ledges of Slate Rock. Continuing southward, the trail’s descent becomes progressively steeper. Approximately two-thirds of a mile south of Slate Rock, the most demanding segment of the hike begins. Here, the trail leaves the ridge crest and employs a series of switchbacks to descend back down to the Pilot Cove-Slate Rock Trail. A right turn at this junction would lead back 1.5 miles uphill to the northern intersection of the two trails, encountered earlier in the hike. To complete this loop, however, take a left turn. After a short, level walk of a couple of tenths of a mile, you’ll emerge from the woods at the western trailhead for the Pilot Cove-Slate Rock Trail, again along Yellow Gap Road. The final leg of the loop involves following Yellow Gap Road eastward, on a generally downhill gradient, for the remaining 1.5 miles back to the starting point.
Overall, this Slate Rock hike is a thoroughly enjoyable experience. The initial walk along Slate Rock Creek, while not exceptionally remarkable aside from Slate Rock Creek Falls, is pleasantly easy. Slate Rock itself is undeniably beautiful and well worth the effort to reach, regardless of whether you choose this longer loop or the shorter, more direct route. If there’s a less desirable aspect to this loop, it’s the extended road walk. If you have the option of using two vehicles, that would be ideal. However, if you’re hiking solo, like myself, it’s sometimes a necessary compromise. Fortunately, it’s a relatively quick and easy stretch of road walking. Therefore, I wholeheartedly recommend a hike in this area. Slate Rock is a must-see if you’re in the vicinity and seeking stunning views with a bit less crowd. So, with that in mind, I present this loop hike to Slate Rock from the east, utilizing the Pilot Cove-Slate Rock and Pilot Cove Loop Trails. As always, I hope you ENJOY!!
Trailhead GPS Coordinates: 35.385248, -82.691992
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty: HARD (Petzoldt Rating: 9.50 )
Hike Length: 7.1 miles
Hike Duration: 2:45
Trailhead Temp: 50’F
Trail Traffic: 5-10 people
Min. Elevation: 2,800′
Max. Elevation: 3,960′
Total Vertical Gain: 1,200′
Avg. Elevation Gain / Mile: 169′
Trails Used (blaze color): Pilot Cove-Slate Rock (blue), Pilot Cove Loop (yellow)
3-16-2019
