Otter Lake Loop Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Lake · River/Creek · Waterfall

This is a fun trail that winds along next to the Blue Ridge Parkway and loops around Otter Lake. The trail starts from the visitor center off the right side of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Follow the paved path that branches off from the trail of trees.

The start of the actual trail is not well marked, but once you enter the woods, you'll follow alongside a stream. There are a few minor stream crossings which you have to step over using a well-placed concrete stepping stone block and/or rocks.

At 0.6 miles, you'll reach the dam on the west end of the Otter Lake. Here turn right and climb a steep, but short hill to take the southern arm of the loop around the lake. As you make your way around the lake, there are a few more creek crossings, then a junction with Otter Creek Trail off to the right about 1.2 miles into your hike.

Continue past this to follow the northern leg of the loop trail west. You'll cross through a parking area on the side of Blue Ridge Parkway, but the trail picks back up on the west side of the lot. Follow this back to the junction below the dam. Take a right to head back along the creek to the visitor center.

Rhododendrons, mountain laurels, maples, oaks, hemlocks and numerous wildflowers. Birds, butterflies, and squirrels.