The Maze

Why go

The Maze is a moderate, multi-use carriage-road loop woven through Moses H. Cone Memorial Park near Blowing Rock. It’s a wide, gently graded gravel route with just enough up-and-down to feel like a real walk without punishing your calves. Expect a blend of estate history and mellow mountain scenery: mixed hardwood forest, pastoral meadows, and occasional peeks toward Blowing Rock and the Blue Ridge.

Route and distance

The commonly walked loop is about 3.1 miles total on historic carriage roads, with roughly moderate elevation change. Because the route intersects multiple carriage roads (hence the name), you can easily shorten or lengthen the loop. Wayfinding is straightforward, but pay attention at junctions if you’re aiming for a specific distance.

Trail feel and scenery

This is classic Cone Estate: broad crushed-gravel tread designed for carriages, gentle grades, and sightlines that open now and then to the manor and surrounding hills. You’ll pass near the Moses Cone Manor and the Carriage Barn, with stretches of mixed-hardwood canopy that run lush and green in summer and light up in fall. It’s not a summit hike with sweeping panoramas—think curated estate landscapes with occasional mountain glimpses.

History and nature notes

These roads were built in the early 1900s as part of the Cone estate and are preserved today within the Blue Ridge Parkway. You’re walking rolling Southern Blue Ridge foothills—weathered soils over granite and gneiss—with ferns and wildflowers along the margins. Deer and songbirds are common company.

What to expect

• Multi-use: You’ll likely share the road with horses (and occasionally carriages). Hikers yield—step well off to the side and let them pass.
• Surface: Wide, well-maintained gravel/dirt; great for groups and newer hikers but rated moderate for the elevation changes.
• Facilities: Restrooms and water are available near the Moses Cone Manor and Carriage Barn; don’t count on anything once you’re on the loop.
• Connections: Easy links to other carriage roads, including the Bass Lake Loop, if you want more mileage or variety.

Best time to hike

• Spring: Cool temps, wildflower pop, and bright new canopy.
• Summer: Shaded and comfortable; expect the most use.
• Fall: The headline season here—exceptional hardwood color.
• Winter: Open year-round, but watch for ice or packed snow on the gravel.

Tips

• After rain, sections can get muddy; waterproof footwear pays off.
• Leashed pets are allowed on Parkway trails; keep it to 6 feet and yield to horses (see official guidance at [nps.gov](https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/moses-cone-trails.htm)).
• If you crave bigger views, pair The Maze with other nearby carriage-road loops, or plan an overlook stop along the Parkway before/after your walk.