Trail Rules

The Sauratown Trail System is built predominately on private property, under agreements between the Sauratown Trails Association and area landowners. Very little of the trail system is on public property, and it is neither managed or owned by NC State Parks. The trails owe their existence to the generosity of private landowners, and their willingness to allow the general public on their property as guests.

As invited guests, all trail users are asked to adhere to and respect the following house-rules:

The trails are for hiking and equestrian riding only.◦ Permission has not been received for bicycles, dirt bikes or ATVs on any part of the trails.

No pets, other than horses, are allowed on the trails due to landowner's wishes.◦ Trained service animals, which are assisting individuals with disabilities, are welcome.

Trail users must stay on the designated trails.

To prevent erosion, do not ride the trails if they are wet or muddy. Please wait for a better day.

If equestrian trails in the adjoining state parks are closed to riding, the Sauratown Trail is closed, as well.

All trails and parking areas close at dark.

Camping is only designated at campgrounds only.

Fires are only allowed at designated areas only.

Please extinguish all smoking materials.

Please do not litter. Pack it in, pack it out!

The trails are closed when firearms are permitted for the “Northwestern Deer Season”. This is generally from early November to New Years Day of each year. The trails are also closed on the fourth Saturday in September for “Youth Deer Hunting Day”.

Trail users should wear blaze orange, visible from all sides, during other hunting seasons, including archery season for deer (early September to early November) and wild turkey season (early April to early May). See N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission for specific hunting season dates.   

Alcoholic beverages, firearms, and drugs are prohibited.

Hikers should always yield the right-of-way to horses. Step aside and refrain from making loud noises or exaggerated motions. Hikers should verbally greet equestrians. This has a calming effect on most horses. Horses relate to people, but they don't see very well and might mistake a hiker for a predator.

Those wishing to organize a hiking or riding event involving the trails should meet with STA at least 60 days ahead of the date to discuss the event, and ensure there are no conflicts.

STA should be contacted prior to the establishment of a new geocache or letter box.

The trail system may be used at your own risk.

Sauratown Trails Association, Inc. or private property owners are not responsible for accidents, thefts, or any other incidents that may occur to people, livestock or property at the parking lots or on the trails.

If you meet a landowner, let them know that their generosity is greatly appreciated.

Individuals who fail to follow the stated rules will be asked to leave the property and not return.

Violators can be charged with trespassing.