NOTE: Not sure why this listing is called "North Fork Mountain Inn" but this is not the correct name or address (I've requested Yelp moderators to update it so hopefully they will do that soon). The trail is called "North Fork Mountain Trail" and you can navigate to the correct place using Google Maps!
For the most part, this hike is all about endurance. From the start to the top (where the overlook is), it's about 3.1 miles and ~2000 feet of elevation. The beginning can be a bit challenging with a lot of loose rocks/pebbles, but then it turns into a smoother path of dead pine leaves/hay (not really sure what it is). The trail is pretty ugly during this time of the year (transition from winter to spring) since leaves have not had the time to grow on trees yet. So lots of dead looking trees and depressing views even if you come on a day where the sky is clear with some clouds and sunlight. The only good part about this is that this means there weren't many bugs!
Later on, you'll climb up bigger stones that are more cemented to the ground with lots of branches you can grab onto to hoist yourself up if needed. Also, there are some nasty, green thorn branches that sticks out in the most inconvenient way. If you're not careful, you could get pricked which kinda stings a bit. Overall, pretty uphill and can be pretty tiring - make sure to bring a liter of water to drink here and there to help with any cramping you might feel. Definitely take breaks - there's really no shame in that. I walk a lot on the daily and still had to take many breaks throughout the hike because I'm not used to walking on rocky paths and going uphill.
The last 200-300 meters before the overlook is quite challenging as it is an incredibly steep uphill (300-400 feet of elevation?). Right before you enter this last part is a small man-made, stacked rock pyramid. One of my friends and I took several breaks while going up this terror trail because we were so exhausted. When you think you got to the top, you actually have to rock climb a bit before going to the overlook. Take your time to climb up the rocks if you haven't done it before. If you're not an experienced hiker/rock climber, you probably shouldn't go by yourself.
Nearly two hours later (and 15 or so breaks), we made it to the overlook, which was incredibly breathtaking and beautiful. I don't know how else to describe the scenes with my simple vocabulary terms, so I attached some photos. It was worth the climb in the end (even if I didn't think so while I was hiking up). We came on a great day where the weather was in the 70s, skies were clear, and the sun wasn't too strong. You can take time to sit for a bit and eat, take lots of pictures, etc.
The hike isn't a loop, so the way down is going backwards. Much easier compared to going up (obviously), but be careful going down because it can be pretty slippery. Again, the hike is more about endurance and not much technical skill (except climbing the rocks to get to the overlook). It's a bit challenging, but overall a pretty short one (6.2 miles total) with amazing views! My friends and I thoroughly enjoyed the hike - also doesn't have many people because it's not a tourist trap trail. read more