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Purgatory Mountain Trail Head
4.6 ★★★★★ 59 Google reviews · Running trail in Asheboro, North Carolina · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- 3 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Purgatory Mountain Trail Head's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
A 3-mile circuit and a 1-hour trail (plus others) for a peaceful getaway in which to enjoy nature.
What runners say about Purgatory Mountain Trail Head
“This is a nice well maintained trail with easy to find markers.”
“There are scenic views at the top of Purgatory Mountain when the leaves are off the trees.”
“The trail was well marked and it was a pretty easy walk.”
“Nice, well maintained and peaceful trail.”
“The trail was well marked and it was a pretty easy walk.”
The trailhead parking is in the zoo parking lot. This is a nice well maintained trail with easy to find markers. Looks like they plan to expand eventually. We went on a Sunday and it was moderately crowded. Dogs are allowed on leashes.
Great free hiking trail on NC Zoo property. A nice shaded trail with lots of trees. But, beware Zoo staff do not patrol this area so, if you get lost remember to call Randolph County Sheriff's Office or, for medical assistance call Randolph County EMS.
Purgatory trail is a quick hike that you can walk in less than an hour. Great for young hikers including my two toddlers. Lots of forest birds to view along the trail.
Really nice to get in a quick 4.5 mile hike! Several small trails that are closely connected.
Trail conditions & character
“There are scenic views at the top of Purgatory Mountain when the leaves are off the trees.”
“The trailhead parking is in the zoo parking lot.”
“This is a nice well maintained trail with easy to find markers.”
“Quite rocky and uneven on the loop trails.”
Plan your run at Purgatory Mountain Trail Head
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- Distance3 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Websitenczoo.org
- Social Instagram · Facebook
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