Trails in Montgomery County

TrAILS in
Montgomery county

Did you know that 79% of the 51,874 acres of the Uwharrie National Forest is located right here in Montgomery County? That makes this one of the most recreation-rich landscapes in all of North Carolina, and an absolute haven for outdoor lovers.

The Uwharrie Mountains are some of the oldest mountains in North America. Though weathered by time, these peaks still provide a rugged adventure for hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and nature seekers of all kinds. The forest is steeped in history and full of stories of gold mines, Native American footpaths, and the enduring resilience of the landscape.

In Montgomery County, you’ll find trails for every type of adventurer from family-friendly lakeside walks to the challenging and remote Uwharrie Trail System, a backcountry route that cuts through the heart of the forest. Whether you’re hiking through shady hardwoods, crossing trickling streams, or catching sunrise views from rocky ridgelines, the trail system here is an immersive experience in nature.

But the fun doesn’t stop with hiking. You can pitch a tent at one of several developed or primitive campgrounds, saddle up for a day of horseback riding, cast a line at Badin Lake, or paddle down scenic river corridors. With so many ways to connect with the land, you can truly do it all in Montgomery County.

Important tip: There is little to no cell service in many parts of the forest, so download your AllTrails maps in advance or grab a printed map before heading out.

READY TO EXPLORE?

UWHARRIE NATIONAL RECREATION TRAIL

The Uwharrie Trail is a rugged backcountry experience that winds through some of the most remote and scenic parts of Montgomery County. Stretching over 28 miles nearly continuous the Walkers Creek Trailhead, all the way down to the Wood Run Trailhead (NC 24/27). The Montgomery County section contains 20 miles beginning at the Joe Moffit Trailhead to the southern terminus at Wood Run (NC 24/27), this trail immerses hikers in the heart of the Uwharrie Mountains with rolling ridgelines, quiet streams, and panoramic views from Little Long Mountain.

Ideal for day hikes or overnight backpacking trips, the trail features dispersed campsites, creek crossings, and several scenic overlooks. It’s a favorite for those seeking solitude, challenge, and a deeper connection to nature. Though remote, the Uwharrie Trail is well-marked and maintained by dedicated volunteers.

Want to give back to the trails? Connect with the Uwharrie Trailblazers, a volunteer-driven organization working to maintain and preserve Montgomery County’s trail systems for future generations.

Ready to thru-hike the Uwharrie Trail? Be sure to check out Don Childrey’s essential Uwharrie Lakes Region Trail Guide, a 525-page book packed with maps, history, and everything you need to know for a thru-hike of the Uwharrie Trail, and to explore the whole region. Three Rivers Land Trust offers a supported 4 day Uwharrie Trail thru-hike event each year.

Joe Moffit Trailhead (Thayer Road)

998 Thayer Rd, Troy, NC 27371

Start your Uwharrie Trail adventure at the Joe Moffitt Trailhead, clearly marked from the road and home to a special dedication honoring one of the trail’s champions. From here, you can hike south just 0.8 miles to Little Long Mountain for sweeping views or continue 3 miles to Jumping Off Rock. Heading North to the Luther Place Trailhead? Check out our guide on Randolph County ‘Trails Near Asheboro Trail Guide‘ for more info on trailheads northbound.

Jumping Off Rock Trailhead

2015 A Flint Hill Rd, Troy, NC 27371

The Jumping Off Rock Trailhead is clearly marked from the road and offers access to both the north and south sections of the Uwharrie Trail. Hike south from the parking lot towards Horse Mountain Trailhead, or cross the road to head north towards Little Long Mountain and Joe Moffit Trailhead. Don’t miss the scenic viewpoint of Jumping Off Rock itself, located just across the street and a hundred feet east. A perfect stop before or after your hike. This trailhead is a favorite for those seeking flexible route options and unforgettable views.

Horse Mountain Trailhead (Tower Road)

35°27'35.8"N 79°57'35.8"W

The Horse Mountain Trailhead sits at the end of a long dirt road, offering a more remote and peaceful entry to the Uwharrie Trail. From this quiet spot, you can hike either north or south through beautiful, rolling forest. The trail is well-marked from the road and perfect for hikers looking to get off the beaten path. Expect solitude, serenity, and a true backcountry feel.

Head North 2.1 miles to Jumping Off Rock or head south to the 109 Trailhead. When heading south, there is a connector trail about halfway called West Morris Mountain, this is a campsite with a small fee. More info here.

West Morris Mountain Campground (Connector to Uwharrie Trail)

648 Ophir Rd #600, Troy, NC 27371

This hiking only trail begins at the West Morris Mountain Campground. The trailhead is located in a large gravel lot. You will begin the trail on a gravel road, then take a hard right onto a wide compacted dirt path. You must turn right at the junction to avoid private property. You will reach a junction with signage that intersects with the Uwharrie trail. Head North to the Horse Mountain Trailhaed (Tower Rd.) or head south towards the NC 109 Trailhead.

109 Trailhead

2354 NC-109, Troy, NC 27371

Head north to the Horse Mountain Trailhead or head south to Yates Place Campground (Dusty Level Road) Trailhead. Heading north, there is a connector trail about halfway called West Morris Mountain, this is a campsite with a small fee. More info here. This section crosses creeks with significant change in elevation.

Yates Place Campground Trailhead (Dusty Level Road)

815 Dusty Level Rd, Troy, NC 27371

Yates Place Campground is a rustic, tent-only camping area nestled in the Uwharrie National Forest, perfect for hikers and hunters alike. Once an old home site, it now offers picnic tables, grills, and a vault toilet, making it a comfortable base camp for adventures on the nearby Uwharrie Trail. Many hiking groups use Yates as a staging area for multi-day treks along this 20-mile National Recreation Trail. Located off Hwy 109 west of Troy, it’s a peaceful and practical spot for immersing yourself in the Uwharries.

Wood Run Trailhead (NC 24/27 Trailhead)

4176 NC-24, Mt Gilead, NC 27306

If you are planning to continue on the Uwharrie Trail, this is the southern terminus. From he Wood Run Trailhead to the Yates Place Campground Trailhead it is a 9.8 mile stretch, or a 18.9 mile out-and-back. There are multiple route options to get from each of the trailheads. The info listed is based on staying on the Uwharrie Trail. There are 3 trails that spur from this trailhead: The Uwharrie Trail, Dutchman’s Creek Trail, and Wood Run Road (connects you to the MTB trails) There are so many options for exploring the trails, there is a list of trails on all trails dedicated to just this trailhead!

Mountain Biking:

Wood Run Road
11 miles. Easy. The gated and graveled road heads north from the parking lot. Round trip is approximately 11 miles.

Supertree Trail
5 miles. Easy to Moderate. Connects to Wood Run Road 1.75 miles in. Supertree is 5 miles long. Ride this loop clockwise for more single track downhill. Marked with double white blazes.

Keyauee Trail
6 miles. More Difficult. Connects to Wood Run Road 2.6 miles in. Ride this loop counterclockwise for more single track downhill. Marked with double white blazes.

Camping

Wood Run Camp is 0.3 miles from the trailhead on Wood Run Road. You can also hike to Yates Place to camp. See above for Yates Place details.

BADIN LAKE RECREATION AREA

Badin Lake Recreation Area in Montgomery County offers some of the most scenic and varied trails in the Uwharrie National Forest. Hikers can explore wooded loops, lakeside paths, and connector trails that link to longer routes through the forest. Whether you’re looking for a short walk or a rugged backcountry trek, the Badin Lake trail system offers something for everyone.

The area also features four developed campgrounds, a group camp, and primitive camping options. Visitors can enjoy fishing piers, a swimming beach, and picnic spots at King’s Mountain Point, all with easy access to the trails. Horseback riders are welcome at Canebrake Horse Camp. Some campsites even sit right on the lake’s edge, offering beautiful views and convenient trail access.

We are featuring two popular trails here. There are additional trails in the Badin Lake Recreation Area, view the full map here.

Badin Lake Trail & Kings Mountain Point

398 Kings Mountain Rd, Badin, NC 28127

Badin Lake Trail begins and ends in the parking lot. This lakeside trail follows the lake’s shoreline for more than half its distance, then looping back through hardwood forest to Cove Boat Ramp. The trail connects Cove Boat Ramp, Arrowhead Campground, Badin Lake Campground, King’s Mountain Point and a connector trail connects Badin Group Camp.

Learn more about the Kings Mountain Point Day Use Area here.

Kings Mountain Point Loop

398 Kings Mountain Rd, Badin, NC 28127

There is an additional 0.6 mile loop around the Arrowhead Campground. This trail provides views of the lake for the entirety of the loop since it follows the Kings Mountain Point peninsula.

Learn more about the Kings Mountain Point Day Use Area here.

TRAILS NEAR TROY

The Town of Troy offers a peaceful and accessible trail network perfect for nature lovers of all ages. Just outside of downtown, the Roy J. Maness Nature Preserve features a quiet woodland loop with boardwalks and birdwatching opportunities, ideal for a leisurely walk or family outing.

For a deeper forest experience, the Denson’s Creek Trail connects to the larger Uwharrie National Forest trail system. This well-maintained trail includes footbridges, gentle climbs, and scenic creek views, offering a great intro to backcountry hiking.

Within town limits, the Town of Troy Nature Trail provides a short, shaded loop perfect for a quick break in nature or a daily walk. Together, these trails highlight Troy’s unique connection to the Uwharrie landscape—where small-town charm meets forested adventure.

Roy J. Maness Nature Preserve

Troy Reservoir Okeewemee Road, Troy, NC 27371

The Roy J. Maness Nature Preserve is the northernmost point in the Troy Greenway system and a perfect destination for outdoor family fun. With over 6 miles of trails, including the scenic Denson’s Creek Trail and a peaceful 1-mile loop around the fishing pond, there’s something for every type of adventurer. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, picnicking, kayaking, and fishing in a beautiful, wooded setting. This preserve also serves as a trailhead for the Troy Nature Trail, which winds 6 miles south along Denson’s Creek. It’s a true gateway to nature in the Uwharries.

Denson's Creek Trailhead (US Forest Service Ranger Station)

789 Biscoe Road in Troy, NC.

The Denson’s Creek Trailhead sits just behind the Uwharrie National Forest office just two miles east of Troy, offering access to a peaceful and educational hike. Built by the Youth Conservation Corps in 1974, the trail features two well-marked loops (0.75 and 2.2 miles) with interpretive stops that highlight the area’s natural and cultural history. Benches along the way offer quiet moments to take in the sounds of the forest and views of creek tributaries. The longer loop connects to the Town of Troy Nature Trail, expanding your adventure on orange-blazed paths. This is a great option for a short walk or a moderate outing with rich backstory and beauty.

Town of Troy Nature Trail

1066 Glen Rd, Troy, NC 27371

The Town of Troy Nature Trailhead provides access to a 6-mile natural surface trail that winds along scenic Denson’s Creek, connecting the Roy J. Maness Nature Preserve to a second trailhead off Glen Road near Highway 24/27. With steep hills (your glutes will feel it!), this trail offers a rugged workout in a beautiful forested setting. It links to the Denson’s Creek Trail. It’s a challenging but rewarding way to explore the heart of Troy’s outdoor network.

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