Backpacking the Daniel Boone Scout Trail in Grandfather Mountain

Some trails challenge your stamina; others test your spirit. The Daniel Boone Scout Trail does both, wrapping its steep ascents and rugged beauty around you like a rite of passage. Carved into the heart of Grandfather Mountain, this 7-mile round-trip trail leads adventurous backpackers to Calloway Peak, the highest summit in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s a journey through dense forests, rocky outcrops, and adrenaline-pumping scrambles that will leave you exhilarated and humbled by the raw grandeur of the wilderness.

The trail begins at the Boone Fork Parking Area, with a moderate ascent through rhododendron tunnels and hardwood groves. Here, the air is heavy with the scent of earth and pine, the sounds of birdsong and rushing creeks setting the tempo for your climb. As you gain elevation, the terrain shifts, and the trail’s character sharpens. Steep switchbacks give way to boulder fields, and the towering trees frame glimpses of the Blue Ridge beyond.

At about 2.7 miles in, you’ll encounter the first cables and ladders—Grandfather Mountain’s signature features. These vertical scrambles over sheer rock faces demand focus and grit, but they’re also part of what makes this trail unforgettable. Every climb feels like a conversation with the mountain, testing your resolve and rewarding you with unparalleled views.

The summit of Calloway Peak, at 5,946 feet, is a revelation. The sweeping panorama stretches across Pisgah National Forest, with Linville Gorge and Hawksbill Mountain visible in the distance. Pitch your tent at one of the designated backcountry campsites, and as the sun dips below the horizon, the mountains glow in shades of amber and violet. By night, a blanket of stars transforms the peak into a celestial amphitheater.

Backpacking the Daniel Boone Scout Trail isn’t just about reaching the top—it’s about immersing yourself in the rugged spirit of the Blue Ridge Mountains and carrying that sense of wonder with you long after you leave.

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Backpacking Guide: Daniel Boone Scout Trail

Overview

The Daniel Boone Scout Trail is a challenging, 7-mile round-trip hike to Calloway Peak. It features steep climbs, technical sections with cables and ladders, and breathtaking views, making it a bucket-list trail for experienced hikers and backpackers.

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Trail Details

• Trailhead: Boone Fork Parking Area, off NC Highway 105.
• Difficulty: Strenuous; steep inclines, rocky terrain, and technical scrambles.
• Distance: 7 miles round-trip.
• Elevation Gain: ~2,000 feet.
• Estimated Time: 5-8 hours, or overnight for backpackers.

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What to Expect

• Dense Forests: The lower trail winds through lush rhododendron groves and hardwood forests.
• Cables and Ladders: These technical features make the trail physically demanding but uniquely rewarding.
• Calloway Peak: The highest summit in the Blue Ridge offers unbeatable 360-degree views.
• Backcountry Camping: Campsites are located along the trail—reservations are required through Grandfather Mountain State Park.

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Backpacking Tips

1. Permits: Obtain a free backcountry camping permit through Grandfather Mountain State Park.
2. Gear: Bring a sturdy backpack, tent, sleeping bag, and layered clothing for rapidly changing weather.
3. Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots are essential for the rocky and uneven terrain.
4. Water: Pack a filter or purifier; water sources are available but not guaranteed.
5. Timing: Start early to avoid afternoon storms and allow time to set up camp.

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Campsite Options

• Hi-Balsam Shelter: Located near the summit of Calloway Peak, this primitive shelter is a great option for overnight hikers.
• Designated Sites: Additional backcountry sites are marked along the trail—check the park map for locations.

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Driving Directions

From Boone, take NC Highway 105 South for 12 miles to the Boone Fork Parking Area. Parking is free, but spaces are limited, so arrive early.

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Backpacking the Daniel Boone Scout Trail is not just a hike—it’s an adventure into the untamed beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With every step, climb, and breath, you’ll forge a connection with the land that is as enduring as the peaks themselves.