Bryant Ridge Loop Trail

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Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Spring · Wildlife

This loop trail makes use of the blue-blazed old section of the Appalachian Trail, before it was rerouted to accommodate the new Bryant Ridge shelter. If you tackle the trail in the clockwise direction, the biggest uphill climbs will be near the end. These inclines can be slippery if travelling downhill (going counterclockwise).

Look for the blue-blazed wood post marking the beginning of the loop. On the opposite side of the parking area is another blue-blazed wood post with a metal sign marking the end of the loop.

Entering the forest from the parking area you'll immediately find Asimina triloba trees (American papaw). If you come at the right time of year, you can grab a paw-paw or two from their low-hanging branches. Continue to follow the narrow footpath and you'll pass a sign marking the national forest boundary (red tree ring blazes). Eventually you'll pass a privately-owned cabin and climb a small incline. Follow blue blazes.

As you descend again you'll find a small wood footbridge over a washout. Continue until you cross a tiny stream with moss-covered rocks. You'll find a switchback soon after the stream. Soon you'll reach the Appalachian Trail proper. You'll want to turn right and head northbound on the AT. The path should be exceptionally clear and easy to follow, except perhaps during the height of fall. Follow white blazes.

After you pass Bryant Ridge Shelter, look for the three-way trail crossing. There will be a blue blaze on a large tree stump to your right as you approach the crossing. Follow the blue blazes and cross the stream and begin the most difficult ascent of the loop. When you reach the top of the ridgeline the trail will widen dramatically into an old forest road. Follow the road and the blue blazes until you return to the parking area.

Deer, box turtles, wasps.