Silvermine Arch #225 - 1.7 mile in/out - Moderate difficulty

To get to the Silvermine Arch Trailhead pictured above, go to the Koomer Ridge Campground and stay to the right. Stay on this road until you absolutely have to go to the right because it is one way. As you round the curve you will see this sign on the right and on the left is a decent size bathroom. When you come in the winter and the campground it closed, you will have to park somewhere near the entrance which makes this 1.7 mile hike turn into a 2-2 1/2 mile hike. But shortly after you begin, you will come to another sign that will direct you to go to the right.

The first part of this hike is very easy, so relaxing and makes for a really nice hike. But just as I was beginning to think that I could report it as being an 'easy' hike, my puppy-dog, Ranger, and I saw this....

I'm pretty sure he had the same thought as me...'that is a lot of steps we have to come back up'. 78 to be exact. 78 steps! Once at the bottom of these steps, the trail turns into the 'moderate' difficulty, simply because of the downhill grade, deep knee bends and more steps. Beautiful, wild rhododendrons...many different, colorful fungi...Pileated Woodpeckers calling...and huge boulders makes me feel as if I am on a remote island somewhere. 

I had a hard time finding a good spot where I could get the whole arch in the picture. As you can see, I never did find that spot. So this just means you will need to go and see it for yourself. Just remember as you head back out, once you get to the top of those 78 steps, it's a nice easy hike back to your car. I really enjoyed this trail. Very secluded and not busy at all. Stay safe! Have fun! Make sure to pack the necessities even if you don't use them. You never know what could happen. It is best to be prepared! And remember,
​'Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.' - John Muir