Prickly Pear Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The white-blazed Prickly Pear Trail can be taken in its entirety and can be accessed from Forest Service Road 708 or by hiking the Royale Trail up from Poverty Creek and the Pandapas Pond Day Use Area.

Starting at the trailhead located on FS Rd 708 or the western end of the Royale Trail, Prickly Pear weaves through the forest staying close to the road for the first quarter mile or so before heading straight up the fall line and gaining elevation quickly to push deeper into the forest. Stick with the uphill, as the trail levels out after the climb and flows nicely throughout with short ups and downs, smooth straightaways, and several short, technical rock gardens. The trail descends to its terminus at a junction with the blue-blazed Skullcap Trail.

This is a shared trail with mountain bikers and horses. When encountering a horse, it is proper etiquette to step off the trail to the downhill side and stop until the horse has passed. Also, be sure to wear bright colors during hunting season (October 1st through the first week of January). And be friendly; say "hi" to other folks out enjoying the forest!

And check out the Poverty Creek Trail Coalition on Facebook to see about opportunities to give back and do some trail service!