Sapphire River Walk

Sapphire Valley Resort is a four-season resort area that offers lodging, outdoor recreation, indoor amenities and nature experiences all in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina.  Around 1954, Gene Howerd Sr. (a retired executive of Georgia Pacific) purchased ~8,000 acres in the area including Lake Fairfield and the Fairfield Inn with a vision of creating a mountain golfing community.  During the 1960s, winter recreation was added and the ski area at Sapphire Valley had its first recorded run in late 1964.  Other activities at the resort include On-site golf (including an 18-hole public course), tennis, pickleball, foot-golf, and a high-ropes course.  There are also numerous trails and waterfalls at the resort and in the surrounding area. 

This short hike at Sapphire Valley Resort starts at the kid’s playground and follows the River Walk trail through the woods and along a small creek that runs through the resort.  You will pass some condo buildings on the hike and hug the creek for the entire route. About 1/2 way through the loop hike, you’ll cross a wooden bridge and return to the playground and picnic area where you started. Access to the trail is right across from the Sapphire Valley ski hill – and you can park in the lot that serves it.  This hike is easy and suitable for young children. It is well marked and is a pleasant way to spend 30 minutes if you are in the area.