Hiking

Hiking

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Important Hiking Rules

  • Pets must be on a physical leash and under your control at all times.
  • Drones are not allowed.
  • Alcohol and illegal substances are prohibited.
  • Take your trash with you.
  • Areas marked "No Entry," "Do Not Enter" or "Authorized Personnel Only" are prohibited to all forest visitors.
  • Do not carve or write on trees, buildings, or sign posts, fences, or any other part of the forests and its structures.
  • Do not pick or injure flowers, plants, mushrooms or other forest features.
  • Do not climb on rocks or waterfalls.
  • Do not jump, slide or dive from waterfalls.
  • No camping.
  • Campfires and cooking fires (charcoal, gas, wood, or other fuel) are not allowed on any part of DSRF.
  • Leave all rocks and artifacts where you find them.
  • Forest use is at your own risk.
  • Click to read a complete list of forest rules.
Violators are subject to misdemeanor charges and/or forest expulsion by authority of N.C.G.S. 106-877



Hiking Safety

All DuPont State Recreational Forest (DSRF) trails are available for hiking. Staying on marked trails is recommended for natural resource protection and safety concerns. Even on well-maintained trails natural hazards may be present. Stay alert for tripping dangers such as roots, rocks and uneven surfaces, as well as slippery conditions in wet areas. Other outdoor hazards you may experience include:

Lightning

Strong winds

Heavy rain

Venomous snakes and insects

Poisonous plants

Falling limbs

Temperature extremes

Respect the Trails

Heavy rain, snow and freeze/thaw temperature changes can make the trail system vulnerable to damage from bicycle, equestrian and hiking traffic. The system will usually remain open but closures may be enacted if damage such as rutting and compaction occur. If you enjoy DSRF’s trails, please consider giving them a break after rain and snow events.

Trail Etiquette

Hikers should be aware that most of DSRF's trails are considered to be multple-use trails. Very few are excluded from biking and horseback riding. Other trail users will be encountered frequently and hikers may experience trail congestion in some areas of the Forest, especially in the popular waterfall corridor. Make yourself known to other users if you feel they do not sense your presence, especially equestrians and bikers.


For more information about hiking in DuPont State Recreational Forest and answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), click here.



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