(updated 10/25/2024)
Currently, no one is permitted on the trail system for any reason without explicit permission from the Mountain Retreat Association (dba Montreat Conference Center).
On September 27, Hurricane Helene ripped through Western NC and causing massive damage to the region, including the Montreat Wilderness and the trail system. A list of changes made as a result of the Helene are collected on a dedicated page. Over the last few weeks, we have been assessing the full extent of the damage to our campus and our trails. At this time the trails will remain closed for the following reasons:
- Unsafe Trail Conditions: The trails system currently has unstable bridges, downed trees, and shifting paths, making the trails hazardous for hiking.
- Town Infrastructure Repairs: The Town of Montreat is still working on repairing critical infrastructure and has requested that we limit traffic on the roads.
- Parking Lot Usage: Some of our parking lots are being used to store debris and are unavailable for visitors.
- Strain on Emergency Services: The local emergency personnel are already operating at capacity, and we do not want to increase the risk of unnecessary rescues.
- Campus Restoration: Our immediate focus is on restoring the conference center’s facilities to resume regular programming.
In the coming weeks, we will offer volunteer opportunities for the local hiking community to assist with repair efforts. For the time being, no one is permitted to hike in this trail system or conduct trail work without explicit permission from the Mountain Retreat Association (dba Montreat Conference Center).
To financially show your support to Montreat and the Montreat Wilderness, donate to the Montreat Hurricane Relief Fund.
The Montreat Wilderness and trail system is on private property managed by the Mountain Retreat Association (dba Montreat Conference Center). Our trail system is protected by conservation practices and is a hike-at-your-own-risk facility. There are more than 20 trails in Montreat stretching over 40 miles, offering a variety of hikes for all skill levels.
This trial system does not receive public funding. Please consider donating to the Montreat Fund to help preserve the health of our wilderness areas!
Need to report an issue with a trail? Please report it below.