Name: Newt Loop
Rating: 4.4

Toolbox

Plan in onX Backcountry

Driving directions
Download GPX File

Know This Trail?

Upload a photo

Dogs Leashed

E-Bikes Unknown

Family Friendly Short distance, combined with smooth terrain and a lack of any steep drops, roots, or rocks, makes this loop very family/beginner friendly.

The 214 Trailhead requires a parking pass ($5 daily/$30 Annually).
Newt Loop is a two-way multi-use trail. Expect traffic in both directions. Dogs must be on a 6 ft. leash, per park regulations. Similar to Catamount Trail, bikes and pedestrians are welcome, but horses are not permitted. Please inform any equestrian riders you come across that these trails are not built for horse travel, and notify park officials as well.

Description

From the 214 Trailhead parking lot, cross the gravel road and proceed down the 214 Trail a short distance to the Newt Loop entrance on the right. This trail can be traveled in either direction, but is best when ridden counter-clockwise (as mapped).

The trail itself is mostly smooth hardpack dirt, with a few sections of gravel. The grade is never steep, and the terrain is never technical. The mellow tread combined with a short distance make this a great family/beginner friendly trail.

About 0.5 miles into the trail, you'll come to an opening and cross a fire road. Shortly after this, you'll come to the bottom of the Catamount Trail on your right. Staying left to continue on Newt Loop, you'll cross the fire road again shortly, and will then proceed up a small hill.

Part way up the hill is a landing and sign on the right indicating you are at the top of Rolling Drop. Head down to catch this short skills trail and Rock Up and Over, then return up the gravel road you just passed, or better yet get in some switchback climbing practice on 29 Turns, which puts you back out near the top of that climb you were doing on Newt Loop.

Continuing on from here, you get a nice, fast-flowing downhill section with some fun kickers. Watch your speed though, as a tight right-hand hairpin turn comes up quickly! Just after this the trail splits. Heading right is preferable, as it leads you to a short but very fun and easy section of flowing berms, which then pops back out onto the main trail. Turn left here to head back up and run a few laps!

Once you've had your fill of flow, head right for a few more short climbs and descents before finding yourself back at the start of the trail. Head left, back up the 214 Trail, to your vehicle, or maybe ride another round to get in some extra practice and exercise... or why not head on up Catamount Trail for miles more fun!

Side Note: This trail proceeds through some lovely areas, and is a great place to take out-of-town visitors for a stroll in the woods if you are looking to get away from the crowds at the nearby waterfalls.