Avery County trails

Starting in Banner Elk, the loop heads out through town to Mill Pond, where calm water and a pleasant valley setting introduce the walk before the route turns toward the grounds of Lees-McRae College. From there, the itinerary continues across the college area and down to Wildcat Lake, a scenic lakeside…

Distance: 4.7 mi • Elevation gain: 209 m • Maximum elevation: 1,180 m

Distance: 3.0 mi • Elevation gain: 223 m • Maximum elevation: 808 m

Dog Hike

Distance: 1.3 mi • Elevation gain: 88 m • Maximum elevation: 1,317 m

Distance: 0.9 mi • Elevation gain: 27 m • Maximum elevation: 1,237 m