Fodder Stack Trail

The opening descent is steep, and the middle section follows a ridge through mixed forest with roots, rocks, and occasional overgrowth. At the unmarked fork near the far end, either direction completes the terminal loop; the loop is especially rocky and has short steep pitches. Views that once opened toward Basin Cove are largely screened by vegetation, so the appeal is the quiet forest and spring wildflowers rather than a sustained overlook.

Turn off the Blue Ridge Parkway across from the Bluff Restaurant and follow the road toward the former Bluffs Lodge area; at the fork, stay left away from the Doughton Park Picnic Area. The trailhead is at the end of the road. Parking is at the former lodge area. Carry water because none is reliably available on the trail. Dogs are allowed on leash, and Parkway trails are for hiking rather than biking. Allow about an hour for the route, more if the steep, rocky footing is wet or icy.