Pressley Cove Trail #112

Dogs Unknown

Features River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

If you’re looking for a short but steep hike with no mountain bikes, look no further because Pressley Cove offers 917 feet in elevation gain in only 1.2 miles. This fun, but strenuous, trail begins off Avery Creek Road (FSR #477) and begins climbing almost immediately. There are a couple of switchbacks at the beginning before the first rhododendron grove. The trail follows along the creek and crosses over/merges with the creek on a few occasions. Most of this trail is very uphill, except a small portion at the top that flattens for a couple hundred yards before intersecting with FSR #5099.

Pro tip: stop to catch your breath every once in a while and look behind you to use the excuse that you’re just taking in the view.

Plenty of rhododendron and mountain laurel groves grow here.