W. Kerr Scott Trails

In search of an exhilarating hiking adventure with your pup? Look no further than the W. Kerr Scott Trail System located in the W. Kerr Scott Reservoir near Wilkesboro, North Carolina. This woofderful trail system houses numerous mountain biking and hiking trails. The Dark Mountain Trail and Overmountain Victory Trail are some of the top-rated biking and hiking destinations in the area. As a whole, the W. Kerr Scott Trails are named an IMBA Epic. Planning your day-trip in the Scott Reservoir will help you and your pup decide on which hike to set out on. Visit the Kerr Scott Visitors Center to grab a trail map. You will also find useful information on campground locations. Note that public restrooms in the center are only available during center hours (8AM-4:30PM) during April-October. 

With so many options, it can be hard to choose. However, dog-owners rave about the Dark Mountain Trail which was designated a National Recreation Trail in 2005. Dark Mountain Trail is also the most fitting trail for a dog-friendly hike, as it's only 3.6 miles long, compared to the other trails that extend beyond 11+ miles from start to finish. Dark Mountain Trail is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, so you can enjoy blossoming wildflowers on a crisp spring morning; the lake on hot summer days; the colorful leaves on a breezy fall evening; and a winter wonderland on a snowy winter day. 

The Dark Mountain Trail in the W. Kerr Scott Reservoir is paws-down one of the best trails to complete with your pooch! But if you wish that the fun never ends, then you can easily turn your hike into an all-day expedition by hiking on the Overmountain Victory Trail. While lengthier at 12.3 miles, this trail is gentle and easy with beautiful forest and lake views. 

The W. Kerr Scott Trails afford the visitor a fun, grueling adventure out in nature. Don't miss out on the fun! Lastly, remember to be courteous to fellow bikers and hikers, pick up trash and dog waste, and enjoy!