Are dogs allowed on Buncombe Horse Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Buncombe Horse Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Buncombe Horse Trail?

No, Buncombe Horse Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Buncombe Horse Trail?

Buncombe Horse Trail is rated expert. It is 19.5 miles long with 5,630 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See North Carolina trail conditions

ExpertOut and Back

North Carolina

Buncombe Horse Trail

Burnsville, North Carolina

19.5 mi

Distance

5,630 ft

Elev. Gain

8h 41m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Expert

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

It begins near a water source and is flat for the first section. There are a number of muddy areas where it is easy to get to. You start descending after a while. This section is not for horses and ends at the trailhead. It is narrow with large rocks. Good knees and strong ankles are needed for this trail.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:885 ft

Max:2,007 ft

1,716 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Reviews

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.