Spence Ridge Trail Access provides entry to the Linville Gorge Wilderness via a 4. 3 km out-and-back trail featuring moderate elevation gain and scenic river crossings.

The trailhead is accessed via unpaved Forest Service roads off Kistler Memorial Highway (NC 1238), with parking available at the access point; note that the Linville River bridge is currently washed out, requiring wet crossings.

This access point is popular for hikers seeking panoramic views of the gorge and surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, though trails within the wilderness are primitive and unmaintained.