"This was a fun three-mile hike (six mile round trip) from the small parking area on Smoke Hole Road. It was wet and the views were mostly clouded over, but the rock formations were fantastic, and occasionally the mists cleared a little to reveal the countryside far below. There are nice campsites on the mountain but no water—except from the sky. The side trail up to Chimney Top is very steep and unmarked but heavily trafficked. It joins the North Fork Mountain Trail from the right. There are two or three ribbons tied onto tree branches to let you know where to turn. " — briansnyder • Jul 26, 2022

"This is a hike that I have been looking forward to for nearly a year. It was well worth the wait, as this was easily one of the most sensational days that I have ever had out in nature! The North Fork Mountain Trail is littered with heavenly views, lush forests, rock climbing opportunities at Chimney Top, and bushwhacking adventures if you wish to reach the official survey markers (plural) at 38.936396, -79.27243. Okay, I'm not going to lie. The bushwhacking portion of the outing SUCKED and isn't advisable for anyone who isn't a glutton for punishment. Maneuvering my way through ridiculously thick patches of branches, thorns galore, and steep rock sections was not my idea of a good time! Sure, I was rewarded with an outstanding vista at the end, but there are countless others off the side of the NFMT which aren't nearly as difficult to reach. Apart from the bushwhack from hell that left me with scrapes all over my arms and legs, I thoroughly enjoyed myself during the eight hours I spent on North Fork Mountain. For one, it was a lot dryer than many other hiking trails in the Eastern U.S. this time of year (there is no "mud season" on this arid mountain!) Additionally, I prob..." — theascent • May 18, 2019