Hurrican Creek Road
Western North Carolina
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USGS Maps for FINES CREEK and
COVE CREEK GAP

Nanc at one of the deeper fords across Hurricane Creek

"We've only gone 3.9 miles ??"
Mike Gilkey, a local dual sport connoisseur, told us about a great road in the Pisgah National Forest. We decided to take look for ourselves and see what all the raving was about. Hurricane Creek Road begins just past mile marker 8 on the west bound lane of I-40 in NC. This is NOT an exit off the interstate, but a forest road that is accessible directly from the 4-lane. It is not identified in any way, so you have to pay attention as you near the turn. Heading west on I-40 you will pass the Fines Creek exit, a rest area at about mile marker 11, and then be watching for mile marker 8. When you see the marker, make sure no one is behind you and pull over into the service lane - be ready to turn because it is hard to see this forest road. This is no ride for beginners, so be sure you are up to the challenge.

The first part of the trail is fairly easy starting at an approximate 2000 foot elevation. After about 1/2 mile you will come to some cabins - continue straight thru on the forest road. The road then becomes much more technical with bedrock, loose rock, muddy low spots, and deep creek crossings. The technical section continues for approximately 4 miles on fairly level terrain. The road then begins to climb to 4000 feet as we headed south to Bear Wallow Gap. The road became much better at this point and finally became paved as we dropped to the 3600 foot level. We then hit the pavement along Wesley Creek, which intersected with Fines Creek Road.

Even though this ride is short, it will test both your skills and endurance. Plan on two hours for this ride. The route is easy to follow, but we still advise that you take a USGS map for FINES CREEK and COVE CREEK GAP.