Falls Lake Trail - Section 5

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The Falls Lake Trail is a 60-mile trail along the southern shore of Falls Lake and is a segment of the state-wide Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Section 5 breaks the 60 mile segment down even further, and starts at the end of Bayleaf Church Road. Roadside parking is available before the gate, but do not block the gate with your car. The Yorkshire Center is an administrative facility for Falls Lake State Recreation Area - there are no public amenities, including parking or restrooms.

Heading past the gate, turn left to begin Falls Lake Trail Section 5. The trail dips into the woods and runs along a couple of rolling hills as it approaches the lake. In under a half-mile, you'll leave state park property and enter game lands where hunting is permitted. The trail crosses several small tributaries on small footbridges with off-and-on views of the lake.

Pay attention to the white-circle blazes to stay on the trail. Several unofficial fisherman's trails intersect the main trail and lead to the lake shore, so it would be easy to get off the trail. Or follow one of these trails to find a secluded spot to enjoy beautiful views of the lake. In about 1.5 miles from the start, the trail will approach Six Forks Road. It follows a narrow drainage up to the road and Section 6 starts across the causeway.