(7 miles, moderate) Step into the Emerald Outback Trails for soaring mountain vistas and forested trails along the ridgeline above 5,000 feet elevation. The 7-mile network of trails are used by hikers and bikers. You can make your own loop trek or hike out-and-back. The trails are easy to moderate, so they are perfect for most ages and fitness levels. Three sections are for mountain biking only: Ruby Slippers, Witch’s Tail & Witch’s Backbone.
Trail Highlights
- Distance: 7 miles total for all trails
- Width: 3 feet
- Difficulty: Easy, moderate & strenuous options
- Terrain: Dirt trail, rocks and roots along the way
- Dogs: Yes, on leash
- Time: Allow 30 minutes per each mile for hiking
- Trailhead: 10 gravel parking spaces, porta potties,
- Emerald Outback trailhead on North Pinnacle Ridge Rd, Beech Mountain, North Carolina
- Best Times to Visit: May through October, but open year-round
- See Trail Map
Enter the trail network on Oz Forest Run from the parking area. Hike through a forest of Beech trees for which the mountain is named. At the 1.1 mile point, two other trails are accessed. Wizard’s Way leads back down to Oz Forest Run and Southern Ridge leads to three overlooks with long range views.
Best of the Emerald Outback Trails for Hikes
Southern Ridge (1 mile, one-way)
This trail is more moderate to strenuous, and it is perfect for more adventurous hiking. Don’t miss the “Elk Valley”, “Awesome Oz” and “Pride Rock” overlooks for some panoramic long-distance mountain views. To reach Southern Ridge Trail from the parking area, take the Jackalope and Wizard’s Way. For a quicker return, hike back the “bail out” road.
Oz Forest (1 mile, one-way)
This is the easiest of the trails that make up the Emerald Outback. It’s about one mile out and can be done as an out-and-back for a two-mile nature hike suitable for the whole family. It features the Roan Mountain Overlook with long range views of Tennessee about halfway up the trail.
Jackalope’s (1.3 miles, one-way)
Hikers can add on an additional 1.3 miles using this connector trail. The trail is easy to moderate with many switchbacks. The Beech Mountain Parks & Recreation department makes sure the trails are well blazed and easy to access.
AllTrails Recommendation
If you use AllTrails, see a 4.2-mile loop hike utilizing many trails.
Go to our Hiking Guide for more trails! Pick up a free Beech Mountain Hiking Map at the Visitor Center or Recreation Center.
This trail is provided and managed by Beech Mountain Parks and Recreation. Beech Mountain is designated an Outdoor NC Trail Town, championing stewardship, accessible outdoors and responsible recreation to sustain our trails for future generations. Join the movement to preserve North Carolina’s Outdoor Spaces by following the Leave No Trace guidelines.
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