(3.4 miles roundtrip, easy) This easy woodland trail has a gentle elevation change, following old roadbeds through lush forests. As the site of Beech Mountain’s annual Mud Run, there are several obstacles to try (or ignore) along the way. Due to the openness of this trail, many wildflowers, shrubs and butterflies are visible during spring and summer. A trail for all seasons, Wild Iris is perfect for hiking and mountain biking as well as winter cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. And be sure to bring a berry bucket during blackberry season (usually mid to late July into August). See if you can find the small cave on the trail.
Trail Highlights
- 1.7 miles
- Elevation Change: 96 feet
- Width of trail: 8 ft
- Level of Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Terrain: Dirt trail, rocks
- Trailhead: 2 gravel spaces at Cherry Gap trailhead, 2 gravel spaces at Bear Paw Path trailhead
- Special Features: Mud Run obstacles – walls, grip wall, seesaw
- Trailhead: Wild Iris Lane & Bear Paw Path
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.
Favorites Count: 0