Kates Plateau Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Wildlife

Wash out .25 miles in.

Immerse yourself in the dramatic, diverse scenery along the Kates Plateau Trail as you travel through rolling meadows, well established woodlands, and mystical marshlands. Begin the trail climbing moderately from the Upper Glade Creek parking area for 2 miles before reaching the plateau. Head right at the trail junction, keeping an eye out for beaver, deer, and turkey tracks along the way. Follow the trail around the plateau, climbing moderately to the highest point before descending steeply to a trail junction with the Polls Plateau Trail. From the trail junction, trend right to extend your hike 4.7 miles along the Polls Plateau Trail, or continue left to remain on the Kates Plateau Trail.

For those wishing to remain on the Kates Plateau Trail, head left at the trail junction, descending gently toward a second trail junction, which is really where you branched off to the right at the beginning. Head right at the trail junction to descend from the Kates Plateau toward the parking area.

Keep an eye out for animal tracks along the trail, as beaver, deer, and turkey are in abundance.