The Pinnacle at Pinnacle Park(edit)

based on 43 tracks & routes | |

MODERATE

#3 hike out of 4 in Pinnacle Park |

MODERATE

6.0 mi

Distance

2 hrs 49 min

Time

1,883 ft

Elev Gain

Overview

This is a moderate out and back hike to The Pinnacle in Pinnacle Park.

Pinnacle Park is an 1100 acre tract owned by the Town of Sylva. It formerly served at the town's watershed, but it is now protected for outdoor recreational use.

The hike starts on the West Fork Trail, which begins right at the parking area. This trail is a steep climb on an old roadbed for the first 2 miles, until you see the turnoff to the Pinnacle Trail to the left, clearly marked. The West Fork Trail continues on, where it can connect to many additional routes.

Taking the Pinnacle Trail, the climbing is more gradual before it levels out. The Pinnacle is 1.4 miles from the intersection. Once there, it opens up to dramatic 360º views of Sylva, and the surrounding area.

Getting Started

There is a well-maintained parking area at the trailhead. It does get quite crowded because of the popular nature trails and scenic creekside areas, which share the same lot.

Taking Children

The nature areas near the parking lot at Pinnacle Park are excellent for children.

This hike would be challenging for most children, and there are potentially hazardous cliff edges at The Pinnacle.

Sights to See

Gina Falls

Rate this Hike

★★★★★

Hunter Best 2 years ago

Rocks, rocks and more rocks. This hike is truly terrible and there is zero view at the top. Never again.

★

Renee Willert Lenz 3 years, 7 months ago

I was ready for the elevation change and distance, but despite wearing my best and toughest hiking shoes, those rocks....ugh. too many. By the time I made it down to the car I was thinking "worst hike ever'. Granted, the last 1.5 miles to the end of the trail was sublime, gentle ups and downs. But the view wasn't worth the effort, IMO. Hate to be a Debbie Downer but I think this is a once and done for me. Nicer trails in the GSMNP park - right around the corner.

★ ★ ★

Skip Fristoe 6 years ago

This is a really hard hike, only because the trail is chunky stones ranging in size from golfball to softball. If you go wear sturdy hiking footwear. The view, once you get to the top is quite wonderful! But there are lots of great views in this area without chunky stones for miles.

★ ★ ★