4.6
(7262)
19,232
hikers
Fodder Stack Trail
01:01
2.60km
120m
Hiking
Hike the moderate 1.6-mile Fodder Stack Trail in Doughton Park, featuring varied forest terrain and a steep initial descent.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Blue Ridge Parkway
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
318 m
Wildcat Rock Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
398 m
Fodder Stack Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
2.60 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
1.88 km
599 m
113 m
Surfaces
1.86 km
730 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 9 May
19°C
8°C
14 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I park for the Fodder Stack Trail?
You can park at the parking area for the now-closed Bluffs Lodge, which is also the starting point for the trail. This area is located within Doughton Park off the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Is the Fodder Stack Trail dog-friendly?
Yes, the Fodder Stack Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for everyone.
When is the best time to hike this trail?
The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring offers delicate wildflower displays, while other seasons provide varied forest colors and fragrances. Due to its shorter length, it's a good option for a quick outing in any season, weather permitting.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for Doughton Park?
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access Doughton Park or to hike the Fodder Stack Trail. It's part of the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is free to visit.
What is the terrain like on the Fodder Stack Trail?
The trail begins with a steep downhill descent for about 0.3 miles, then levels out. You'll encounter a rocky and rooted path that can be narrow and overgrown in places. Some sections, particularly on the loop, are extremely rocky and may require careful footing.
What kind of scenery can I expect?
The trail is primarily a walk through a mixed pine and hardwood forest. While historically offering expansive views, it's now largely overgrown, limiting distant vistas mostly to the very beginning. In spring, you might see wildflowers. For more prominent views, consider visiting the nearby Wildcat Rock Overlook.
How long does it typically take to hike this trail?
The Fodder Stack Trail is approximately 2.6 km (1.6 miles) long and typically takes around 1 hour to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop.
Is this the same Fodderstack Trail as the one in Cherokee National Forest?
No, this trail in Doughton Park is a distinct, shorter hike. There is a much longer, 12.5-mile Fodderstack Trail in the Cherokee National Forest that is part of the Benton MacKaye Trail, which should not be confused with this route.
Are there better viewpoints nearby?
Yes, for more prominent and expansive views of the Basin Cove Valley, the nearby Wildcat Rock Overlook is highly recommended. It's accessible via a short paved path from the same parking area and offers superior vistas.
Does the trail connect with other routes?
Yes, the route primarily follows the Fodder Stack Trail, but it also briefly intersects with sections of the Bluff Mountain Trail and the Mountains-to-Sea Trail: Segment 5.
Is the Fodder Stack Trail suitable for families?
Yes, despite some steep and rocky sections, the Fodder Stack Trail is often recommended for families due to its manageable length and overall accessibility. Just be prepared for the initial steep descent and the rocky terrain.