Devils Garden Overlook to Widows Creek Trail

This specific route, combining sections of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail and Widows Creek Trail, is rated as difficult. While some sections of the Widows Creek Trail can be easy, the combined route includes significant elevation changes, particularly the strenuous climb connecting to the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The research indicates that the Widows Creek Trail has specific parking areas. For the section connecting to the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, you would typically start from a parking area within Stone Mountain State Park. The Mountains-to-Sea Trail itself has numerous access points and parking locations along its vast length, but for this specific route, focus on Stone Mountain State Park access.

The provided information does not explicitly state whether dogs are allowed on this specific combined route. However, many state park trails and sections of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail generally permit dogs on a leash. It's always best to check the specific regulations for Stone Mountain State Park before you go.

The provided sources do not mention any specific permits or entrance fees required for hiking the Mountains-to-Sea Trail or the Widows Creek Trail within Stone Mountain State Park. Generally, state park access for day hiking is free, but it's always wise to check the official Stone Mountain State Park website for the most current information.

The best time to hike depends on your preferences. During winter, the sight of ice on Widow's Creek Falls is a highlight. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, but the opportunity to cool off in the creek might be appealing. Be aware that difficulty can increase with adverse weather conditions.

You'll encounter varied terrain. The Widows Creek Trail features both wide doubletrack and singletrack paths, generally not overly technical, but with some steep inclines. It follows Widow's Creek through wooded areas. Sections of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail can range from rugged mountain paths to smoother sections, often marked with white circle blazes.

A prominent feature is the beautiful Widows Creek Falls, which includes a 25-foot main waterfall and additional cascades. The trail also passes by the abandoned platform of the Mahogany Rock cable car. Hikers completing the more strenuous section are rewarded with an overlook at Devil's Garden on the Blue Ridge Parkway. You'll also experience the peaceful sounds of Widow's Creek and views of Stone Mountain.

Yes, this route is a combination of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail and the Widows Creek Trail. The Mountains-to-Sea Trail is North Carolina's vast state hiking trail. This specific komoot route also passes through sections of the Sparta Trail and Mountains-to-Sea Trail: Segment 6 and Mountains-to-Sea Trail: Segment 5.

Based on the provided tour data, this specific route is an out-and-back trail, as indicated by the significant difference between elevation gain (115m) and elevation loss (732m), suggesting a point-to-point or a route that doesn't return to the starting point via the same path, but the komoot tour itself is often presented as a single track. For a true loop, you would need to plan an additional return path.

While specific wildlife isn't detailed for this exact route, the area is known for its natural beauty. You might observe various wildflowers and local wildlife typical of North Carolina's mountain forests. Keep an eye out for birds, small mammals, and other forest creatures.

The section of the Widows Creek Trail that extends from the parking area to the Blue Ridge Parkway, connecting with the MST, involves a substantial and strenuous climb. This often includes significant elevation gain over several miles without many switchbacks, making the ascent particularly challenging. Be prepared for a demanding uphill section if you plan to complete the full route as described.