Iron Bridge Loop Trail
The Iron Bridge loop trail is a very short portion
of the longer Chattooga trail. From the Iron Bridge and bulletin board
the trail follows up the river for approximately one mile. At the sign,
turn left for a gradual climb to an old logging road and the parking
area above the Iron Bridge. A trail from the parking area makes a left
turn and continues down to the river and Iron Bridge. Here you will
find many great photo opportunities. The hiker can also follow the road
from the parking area to the bulletin board.
Within the Highlands Ranger District, a trail
is under construction from Whiteside Cove Road to Bull Pen Road. Construction
was interrupted in 1993 to clear existing trails of downed trees and
uprooted rhododendron after the March 1993 blizzard. Hiking on this
trail is not advised because of missing bridges and other hazards. However,
there are two shorter loop trails which can be hiked.
Hiking along the Chattooga River is dangerous
until improvements to the trail are completed.
Length:
2 mile loop
Elevation Change:
Rating:
Easiest
Bull Pen Road
Attractions
& Considerations:
A sixty mile long corridor along the
Chattooga River from its headwaters on Whiteside in North Carolina,
southward along the boundary between Georgia and South Carolina was
designated by Congress as a Wild and Scenic River in 1974. There is
a network of trails to and along the river in the three states. This
trail connects to the Bartram Trail, which follows the historic journey
of naturalist William Bartram.
Directions: From Highlands, North Carolina
Start from Highlands by driving south on Main
Street and Horse Cove Road 4.5 miles to end of the pavement and the
intersection of Bull Pen and Whiteside Cove Roads. For the Iron Bridge
loop, take Bull Pen Road which is on the right and drive 3.0 miles
to the Iron Bridge. There is parking on the road.
Fees:
Closest town:
Highlands North Carolina
Macon County
For more information:
Highlands Ranger District
Forest Service (828) 526-3765
or by visiting the Ranger Office or
Visitor Center in Highlands, North Carolina.
