South River and Pocosin Loop

This is a two-day, about 8.4-mile backcountry loop from South River Picnic Area. Follow South River Falls Trail past the waterfall, link to South River Fire Road and Pocosin Trail, then return south on the Appalachian Trail. The park rates it Experienced. The published itinerary gives 8.4 miles; tracing the connected mapped paths measures about 8.7, so treat the total as approximate. A separate 2.6-mile out-and-back reaches the falls observation point, and the longer Swift Run itinerary is 15 miles.

The park's itinerary divides the loop into 2.8–3.8 miles on day one and 4.8–5.8 on day two. It places a dry campsite along Pocosin Trail and says to bring water. Backcountry camping requires a permit. Current rules use dispersed, unmarked sites: check the camping map, choose an allowed pre-existing site, and follow the required setbacks. Water sources along this route were not confirmed, so plan to carry what you need.

The route reaches an observation point above the 83-foot South River Falls about a mile from the picnic grounds. The waterfall stretch has a stream crossing; avoid crossing when water is icy or flooding. The itinerary highlights early-spring wildflowers and early-fall color, though bloom and foliage timing vary.

The return finishes Pocosin Trail, climbs Pocosin Road, and follows the Appalachian Trail south to the picnic area. The itinerary also lists the Pocosin Mission ruins. Reverend Frederick Neve built a schoolhouse and missionaries' housing here in 1902, but the route directions do not identify a clear spur or exact stop; check a current topographic map if seeing the ruins is a priority. Pets are allowed on most park trails on a physical leash no longer than six feet.