November 17, 2019
If you are looking for a challenging hike near Boone, NC, look no further than the Thunderhole and China Creek Trails. Located near the Blue Ridge Parkway and Blowing Rock, NC. This lollipop hike runs down Thunderhole Trail to Thunderhole Falls and then back up the ridge via the China Creek Trail and then meanders around the Blue Ridge Trail system and back to the Thunderhole trailhead.
This loop is not for the faint of heart, total elevation gain is 2,918 ft. in 8.91 miles. The trails are fairly easy to follow, but I would seriously consider bringing a map or phone guidance system, as it is not well-trodden and you are unlikely to see other hikers.
Thunderhole Trail has some really nice camp spots along the creek and I thoroughly enjoyed this nice fall day.
Total mileage is 8.91 miles.
sweetwilder 