North Pines Loop

The North Pines Loop is a 2.2 mile trail through forested single track in the mountains near the town of Cloudcroft.

Beginning on a gravel forest road that often sees use by backcountry campers, the trail leaves the area and begins rising into the trees. Tracing a rock and dirt track, the trail proceeds a short distance before intersecting with a connector trail that accesses the larger network of forest trails in the area. 

Navigation along this hike is very helpful, as there are several other trails, most unsigned. Cel service is extremely spotty here so it is best of use GPS or screenshot trail routes before embarking on this hike. It should also be noted that different platforms give different names to the same paths.

The high elevation trail crests over a peaceful hill before dropping down and joining a wider dirt road that ends at a gate at the Pines Campground. Procedding through this campground, hikers can pick the trail back up on the other side, as it then weaves and wiggles further through the forest before descending back to the backcountry camping area.

Hikers should be aware that there are no amenities or signs along the hike. The area's high elevation and prolonged winter conditions might lead to the forest road to the trailhead being closed. This trail overlaps in places with the Pines Campground Loop Trail, which can be added for some additional distance.