The Lost Cove Loop Trail - Collettesville, NC
"The best portions of your life will be the small nameless moments you spend smiling with someone who matters to you.” - Ritu Ghatourey
“Sometimes all you can do is accept there’s not much you can do. And sometimes all you can control is how well you let go of control.” - Lori Disciene
“The way you speak to yourself matters. Talk to yourself like someone you love.” - J. Mike Fields
Adventure at a Glance:
Time to read: 4 minutes
Distance: 8.2 miles
Elevation Gain: ~1,400 feet
Time to Complete: 5 hours
Difficulty: Hard / Technical
Location: Lost Cove Wilderness Study Area (Grandfather Ranger District)
The Adventure Begins at the Trailhead
Getting to the trailhead of the Lost Cove Loop Trail is an adventure in its own right. The long, winding dirt road narrows down to a single lane with plenty of blind spots and sharp curves, immediately setting the tone for the rugged trek ahead. We tackled this 8.2-mile loop in a clockwise direction, and it proved to be a masterful blend of intense physical challenge and pure, refreshing fun for Ginger, Maria, Amelia, Alex, and me.
Navigating Rushing Waters and Rocky Trails
The trail tread shifts dramatically throughout the day. In some sections, it offers smooth, clean singletrack, while in others, it turns highly technical with rugged, creekside terrain. Because the trail follows the deep drainages of Lost Cove Creek and Gragg Prong Creek, water is the central theme of this journey. Recent heavy rains had caused the creeks to swell, turning the regular currents into powerful, roaring rapids that echoed through the forest. We found ourselves navigating multiple creek crossings where the rushing water reached all the way up to our knees. Rock scrambling over massive granite overhangs and giant boulders kept everyone on their toes, and when a sudden downpour caught us, we couldn't help but laugh and dance in the rain.
Echoes of History Hidden in the Woods
Adding to the wilderness allure, we crossed several old dilapidated structures still standing along the path. These weathered, forgotten remnants of the past provided a brief, hauntingly beautiful glimpse into the history of the rugged area.
Chasing Waterfalls and Wilderness Wildlife
Along the way, the trail rewards your efforts with front-row views of three spectacular waterfalls: Hunt Fish Falls, Gragg Prong Falls, and Middle Gragg Prong Falls. Each one features pristine, deep swimming holes at its base. We couldn't resist diving directly under the cascading water. The water was incredibly brisk and cold, but completely rejuvenating after miles of tough hiking. Afterward, we found a perfect spot on a flat rock right next to a waterfall to eat our lunch, basking in the warm sun to dry off. The wilderness felt incredibly alive around us, showcasing plenty of bugs, slugs, and clear signs of both beaver and bear activity.
Conquering the Climbs Together
Just when you think you've found a steady rhythm, the trail reminds you of its "Hard" rating. Roughly half of the route shares its path with the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, but the real test comes when you hit Timber Ridge. The trail launches into a steep, unrelenting switchbacking climb that will absolutely get your blood pumping and your legs burning. True to our family's completionist spirit, we pushed through the elevation gain with plenty of lively banter and shared jokes. It’s hikes like these—where you challenge yourself, get soaked to the knees, and laugh through the mud—that truly bring a family closer together.
Gear Tips for Future Trekkers
If you are planning to check this one out yourself, come prepared. We highly recommend purchasing solid water shoes in advance rather than relying on rentals, as you will be spending a significant amount of time wading through strong currents. Pack a couple of quick-dry towels, your bathing suit, and a full change of warm clothes to leave in your vehicle for the drive home.
Highlights:
Scenic waterfall views at Hunt Fish Falls, Gragg Prong Falls, and Middle Gragg Prong Falls.
Pristine backcountry swimming holes and refreshing under-waterfall dives.
Historic exploration of old dilapidated structures standing along the trail.
Fun rock scrambling across giant boulders and impressive granite overhangs.
A heart-pumping, steep switchback climb up Timber Ridge.
Land of the lost