Gilbert Yager Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

The Gilbert Yager Trail connects to the White Pines Trail and loops for a mile through several different ecosystems, including remnant white pines and longleaf pine. After climbing the bluffs over the Deep River, the trail winds through white pines and mountain laurel and offers dramatic views east towards the river.

The steep bluffs along the river are the source of the unique flora at White Pines because of their cooling effect. The temperature can be 5 to 10 degrees cooler along the bluffs than in the surrounding area, creating a microclimate that has allowed white pines to thrive since the last ice age.

All five major species of NC pine tree at visible along this trail, including loblolly, shortleaf, virginia, white, and longleaf pines.