Weed Patch Parking Lot Closed at Shumont Rd.
We have some unfortunate news to share about Weed Patch Mountain Trail. Conserving Carolina is proud to have created this gem of a backcountry trail with its extraordinary scenic views. Unfortunately, one of the two access points to this trail, from Shumont Road, has been closed until further notice.
Public access via Shumont Road was never guaranteed. The road passes through private property before reaching the small parking lot located in Chimney Rock State Park. We are grateful for the cooperation of the landowners who allowed access to this parking area since the trail opened in 2018. However, public access through this property is no longer permitted.
It is still possible to access Weed Patch Mountain Trail from the Town of Lake Lure’s Buffalo Creek Park. However, due to the trail’s length and rugged, steep terrain this closure will effectively limit access to the west side of the trail for many trail users. End to end, the trail is 10 miles long—or 20 miles as an out-and-back. We very much regret the loss of access to Eagle Rock for short day hikes and rock climbing and to the full trail as a shuttle hike or bike ride.
One ray of light is that this doesn’t affect access to the most spectacular views on the trail, which are located around the midpoint, at Grey Rock. Grey Rock can be accessed by hiking or biking 5 miles each way (10 miles round-trip) beginning and ending at Buffalo Creek Park.
We are very disappointed by this change in access to Weed Patch Mountain Trail. We are working with our partners to explore solutions that may improve access, whether in the short or long term.