Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt. 

Our Trails

The Sauratown Trail is a unique 25 mile bridle and hiking trail that connects Hanging Rock and Pilot Mountain State Parks. It is an official section of the North Carolina Mountains-to-Sea Trail and is maintained by the Sauratown Trails Association (STA). Our trail is unique because we rely on the generosity of private landowners who allow us to build, use and maintain trails on their property. The trails may be used by all horseback riders and hikers regardless of whether or not they are a STA member. The trails are located in Stokes and Surry Counties in north-central North Carolina.

The Trails are Open When…

The Sauratown Trails are open most of the year to all horseback riders and hikers. Bikes and motorized vehicles are not allowed. For your safety, the trails are closed only during deer hunting season (November to January) and wet, muddy conditions.

Parking Lot Directions

Currently there are 4 parking areas. Four of the parking areas are for horse trailers and cars, and one small area on Rockhouse Rd. is for cars only. They are listed here in order of largest to smallest. Please see the Parking Lots page for more information.

• Old Winston Rd/Coon Rd

• Surry Line/Pinnacle Hotel Parking

• Tories Den

• Brims Grove

Trail Signs & Markers

The Trail Map page provides an in-depth explanation of our trail signs and markers. This page also includes a map with links to detail views of each section of the trail. Our trail is totals 25 miles. I want to add a little more about this here.

Camping

Camping on the trail is not allowed, however, there are several locations near the trail where you can stable your horse or put up a tent and camp overnight for a small fee. Please check the websites below for availability and fees.

• Mountain Trail Stables

• Pilot Knob Inn

• Bregman's Trail Riding

• Jomeokee Campgrounds (people camping only)

• Heaven in the Hills Campground

Additionally, Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail maintains a list of local volunteers who offer assistance to hikers in the way of local information, lodging, food and shuttle services. Here is a link to the Trail Angels Info. (See Segment 7 for the Sauratown Trail)

Hikers may also camp at Pilot Mountain and Hanging Rock state parks.

Become a Member

To become a member of the Sauratown Trails Association, click here.  You will be able to submit an application and pay your dues. Every third Thursday of the month, the association meets to discuss trail issues and other pertinent topics. Many members arrive early to eat before the meeting. You do not need to be a member to attend. See our Facebook page for meeting information