Shut-In Ridge Dog-Friendly Trail: This 16.3-mile trail starts near N.C. Arboretum, and follows a section of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. With tough climbs and the long one-way mileage, most users opt for an out and back option, going whichever distance suits them. If you have a way to leave a vehicle, then there are plenty of access points along the Blue Ridge Parkway, including the top end at the Mt. Pisgah parking lot.
Directions: Take I-26 E to exit 33 for NC-191 S/Brevard Road, and take a right off the exit ramp. Follow 191 for about 3.5 miles to the Bent Creek Park lot on the left-right on the river. The trail starts by following the path through the bridge that will take you under the road. Once you cross the street, stay left and you’ll see the trailhead.
