Emerald Outback — Attraction in Beech Mountain

My family and I wanted to check this place out because the reviews said that it was a scenic, wildlife area to trek safely, trails marked frequently enough, you couldn't get lost. So, we went and it was around 2ish when we started our hike. I, we had a close encounter with a huge deer, apparently, he was either hiding or just sleeping in the warm sun, but that big guy stood up right as I was like, 2 inches from it, and got up so fast, it startled me. I didn't see him camouflaged until he stood up. He was big. Everyone froze but the deer, he trotted off like lightning. Nobody got hurt, just surprised, on both ends, I'm sure. Its a good hike, its an easy trail for all. Please be mindful that you just might come across deer. My family and I...

I have the Emerald Outback a number of times. Trails are for hiking and biking. Approx. 8 miles of trails at the top of Beech Mt. There are a lot of tree roots and rocks so keep in mind for hiking and biking. There is gravel parking at the head of the trails. There is also a picnic table and a portajohn. The trails are well blazed so easy to get around. Just take a picture of the map before you set out. These trails are usually fairly dry. It is also usually very windy. We visited on a day right after heavy, overnight rain and only encountered a few...

Great trails, very well marked. Maps on posts all over, 8 trails from easy to intermediate in foot; very challenging on 2 wheels. The Zig Zag falls were very much in flow, rainy day but so well drained it was not muddy. LOTS of deer! We flushed 2 bucks, several does and fauns, some quail. As to parking, at 0800 we were the only people; at 1130 it was full. Go early! My one negative is about people, not the trails. Leash your dogs, people! Muddy unwanted dogs all over m...