June 5

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Hay Rock Hike – 2025 Unofficial Trail Guide


 Carvin's Cove       Appalachian Trail      

Hay Rock Hike is moderately trekked 7.4 mile hike to Hay Rock. The trail crosses Tinker Creek as it snakes up the mountain, through powerlines to finally overlook Carvins Cove for the last 2 miles. This section of the trail managed by National Park Service.


Editor's Note: We try hard to be accurate in our reporting but please always use multiple references before driving to a trailhead as trail amenities and conditions can always change.

Hay Rock Hike Location & Conditions

Hay Rock Trail Best Picture Locations

Once you pass the powerline and head down the ridge, there will be more than a couple of openings on the way to Hay Rock. This one was taken about 2 miles in, overlooking Carvins Cove.

hay rock hike yonoke

What is Hay Rock?

Hay Rock is an overlook between Tinker Cliffs and US-220 on the Appalachian Trail. It often gets overshadowed by the more popular Dragons Tooth Trail & Mcafee Knob though Hay Rock has a better overlook of Carvins Cove. 

How Long Does it take to Hike Hay Rock?

In order to get to Hay Rock you'll want to give yourself between 3 to 4 hours to trek the 7.4 mile round trip hike.

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