The Fern Nature Trail at Wagoner Access in New River State Park is a peaceful, easy-to-moderate 1-mile loop marked with red blazes. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants a quiet walk along North Carolina’s scenic New River. The trail starts near the Wagoner Road access in Ashe County and follows the river for a while, offering nice views of the water and chances to see wildlife or listen to the gentle current. After that, the path climbs a bit into the woods, where you’ll find shady forests and lots of ferns growing under tall trees. This cool, green setting is what gives the trail its name.
If you want to explore more, you can reach the Bluebird Spur Trail or the longer Riverbend Backcountry Trail (marked in blue) from the Fern Nature Trail, since they connect at the Wagoner Access. The loop is pet-friendly and usually takes 45 minutes to an hour to walk, so it’s an easy and enjoyable way to experience the park’s natural beauty.
Resources
Location
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