Alternative Mt.Hale Summit Trail (fire warden trail)?

[WSC]

This September they are closing Zealand Road due to bridge repair. I have heard some talk about using the fire warden trail. Does anyone know where this trail starts and ends, and any access points and Length?
Thanks! WSC

 

[dr_wu002]

This September they are closing Zealand Road due to bridge repair. I have heard some talk about using the fire warden trail. Does anyone know where this trail starts and ends, and any access points and Length?
Thanks! WSC

Do a search either here or in Trail Conditions. This topic comes up quite often.

-Dr. Wu

 

[Jim lombard]

You can go HERE for more information on the Fire Warden Trail. It's off a logging road near the North Twin Trail. I've never been up it but others here have.

 

[WSC]

Thanks

Dr. wu and Jim thanks for the info. I plan on scouting the trailhead out this weekend in order to use it in a trip later on. Thanks

 

[cooperhill]

It is fairly easy to find. The website linked above gives an accurate description about how to find it. The trail is overgrown but easy enough to follow. According to the 1948 WMG it is 2.5M from the Little River trail to the Mt. hale Summit.

I hope they don't "re-open" this trail.

 

[J&J]

The birch glades on this trail are incredible! Worth the trip for this alone.

 

[cooperhill]

I hiked this today - it is a special trail - enjoy. I don't think this is going to be used as an alternative trail. I found information on access to Zealand on AMC's website and confirmed it with a forest service ranger today.

Zealand bridge

 

[Eric Savage]

I second J&J, this is one of my favorite routes, and yes the birch glades are incredible. The sign mentioned on the website has been removed so don't worry if you don't find it, though if you look carefully there's still a bracket on one of the trees.
In addition to the remains near the old camp site, if you keep your eyes open, there's a wire running along the trail (at ground level) at one point.
There are a few spots that are wet and vulnerable so please tread carefully.