Hull School and Thornton River Loop

The Hull School and Thornton River Loop is a 7.9-mile loop linking Byrd’s Nest #4, Hull School Trail, Thornton River and the Appalachian Trail. The park rates it moderate to strenuous and lays it out as a one-night backcountry trip. If you walk it in one push, set aside most of a day—about 6–8 hours for the climb, crossings and stops.

From Neighbor Mountain Parking near milepost 26.8, climb to Byrd’s Nest #4, a small shelter in a clearing. In winter and early spring, when the leaves are down, you may see the surrounding peaks. From the clearing, follow the grass-and-gravel fire road about 0.4 mile down to Skyline Drive, then cross to Hull School Trail.

Hull School Trail drops about 2.2 miles through hardwood forest. Much of the tread follows an old fire road, with a few narrower footpath sections. At Thornton River Trail, turn upstream. The river hollow brings repeated crossings, old stone walls and homestead traces, plus a pair of small falls a little over a mile above the junction.

Follow Thornton River Trail uphill for about 2.9 miles from the Hull School junction to Skyline Drive. Cross the road and keep climbing about 0.3 mile to the Appalachian Trail, then turn south for about 1.2 miles to the spur back to the parking area. The steady climb out of the hollow is the work of the second half; the river crossings are the part to judge carefully.

The park’s one-night itinerary places a flexible campsite after about 3.4–5.4 miles, along Thornton River downstream from the Hull School junction or farther upstream. Backcountry camping requires a permit obtained through Recreation.gov. The route is still a long day if you skip the overnight; don’t confuse this loop with shorter Hull School or Thornton River walks from their own trailheads.

Start at Neighbor Mountain Parking on Skyline Drive, near milepost 26.8 (also marked milepost 27 on the itinerary). The park entrance fee applies. Dogs are allowed on this route on a physical leash no longer than six feet.