Northern Peaks State Trail
Snapshot
The Northern Peaks State Trail is becoming one of the High Country’s most exciting adventures a future 40-mile ridgeline route linking Boone to West Jefferson across the rare, biodiverse Amphibolite Mountains. Starting at Boone’s historic Rivers House Park, where the Daniel Boone monument stands and the town’s champion sugar maple “Baby” greets hikers, the trail climbs Howard’s Knob and Elk Knob before winding toward Three Top Mountain and Mount Jefferson. Only the end segments are built today, but new loops, major grants, and recent land conservation efforts are steadily bringing the full trail to life. These peaks are special: nutrient-rich amphibolite soils create one of North Carolina’s greatest wildflower hotspots, Elk Knob offers sweeping views to Grandfather Mountain and Mount Rogers, and birders flock here for golden winged warblers and wintering eagles. With partners like NC State Parks and the Blue Ridge Conservancy carefully planning each mile, the NPST is evolving into a signature High Country experience one that blends geology, history, wildlife, and small-town charm into a single unforgettable mountain trek.
Northern Peaks State Trail: A New 40-Mile Adventure
The Northern Peaks State Trail (NPST) is a brand-new, 40-mile state trail planned to run from downtown Boone to West Jefferson. Designated in 2019, it will follow the High Country ridgeline through a series of iconic summits known as the Amphibolite Mountains. Along the way, it will connect Boone with Elk Knob State Park, game lands, and Mount Jefferson State Natural Area creating a continuous, world-class hiking experience through Watauga and Ashe counties. Local leaders describe the trail as more than a recreation project it’s a meaningful step forward for conservation, tourism, and community wellness.
Trail Highlights
Length & Route
• Roughly 40 miles from Rivers House Park in Boone to Paddy Mountain Park near West Jefferson.
• Passes by major peaks including Howard Knob, Snake Mountain, Elk Knob, Three Top Mountain, Paddy Mountain, and Mount Jefferson.
Elevation & Views
• Peaks average around 5,000 ft.
• Snake Mountain is the highest at 5,566 ft.
• Expect sweeping vistas, high-elevation forests, rhododendron tunnels, and wildflower meadows.
Unique Geology
The NPST follows an amphibiolite rock corridor an uncommon type of mountain geology that creates rich, neutral soils. These soils support rare plants and unique ecosystems found in only a few places in the southern Appalachians.
Boone Trailhead
The southern terminus is at Rivers House Park, where new trails, parking, and an ADA accessible restroom are under construction. This area also features “Baby,” one of North Carolina’s largest sugar maples.
West Jefferson Trailhead
The northern endpoint ties into a scenic figure-8 trail system on Paddy Mountain. These moderate trails wind through cove forests and offer beautiful Ashe County views.
Conservation First
The trail is being carefully planned through land surveys, ecological studies, and partnerships with conservation groups. Every potential trail section undergoes a rare-plant inventory, and route adjustments are made when sensitive habitats are found. In many areas, land is being permanently protected to ensure long-term preservation.
Trail Progress
• Construction at the Boone trailhead began in late 2025, adding nearly a mile of new loop trails and major facility upgrades.
• In West Jefferson, the Paddy Mountain loops are already complete and serve as the northern access point.
• Several new sections near Elk Knob are funded and in planning, including new loops, connectors, and parking.
• The remaining gaps will be completed in phases there is no strict deadline, ensuring the trail is built responsibly.
Local History & Highlights
“Baby” the Champion Maple
A massive sugar maple at Rivers House Park one of the largest in the state sits directly along the future trail.
Daniel Boone Connections
Rivers House Park includes a statue of Daniel Boone, and nearby landmarks such as Meat Camp Road tie directly to Boone’s early hunting routes.
Elk Knob Views
On a clear day, Elk Knob’s summit reveals distant peaks including Mount Mitchell and Mount Rogers.
Wildlife
These ridges support everything from black bears and bobcats to rare birds like Golden-winged Warblers and Vesper Sparrows.
Looking Ahead
The Northern Peaks State Trail is still growing, but excitement is building. As new segments open, hikers will gain access to spectacular views, protected habitats, and historic landmarks all linked by a single, continuous path through the High Country.