This 7.3-mile trail stretches from the intersection of Cold Spring Gap Trail to the famous Appalachian Trail, approximately one-half mile away from Silers Bald Shelter. From the end of Cold Spring Gap Trail, the trail climbs 1 mile up to the intersection of Bear Creek Trail. Welch Ridge Trail then climbs 3.9 miles to where Jonas Creek Trail comes in on the right. Another 0.7 miles up the trail, the Hazel Creek Trail comes in from the left, leaving 1.7 miles from here to the Appalachian Trail.