Graveyard Fields Hiking Trail (Blue Ridge Parkway): A moderate 3.2-mile out and back hike through a high alpine valley with two picturesque waterfalls. Start the hike at the lower end of the parking area. To access Second Falls, hike down the steep paved path and cross the river...
The Sam Knob Summit Hiking Trail is considered one of the “Best Hikes In Asheville.” This 2.2-mile out and back hike starts at 5,800 feet in elevation and ascends through a “Canadian” ecosystem of evergreen forests and expansive meadows until it reaches the double peak of Sam...
Looking Glass Rock Trail (Brevard): Looking Glass Rock’s stone face is one of the more recognizable landmarks from the Blue Ridge Parkway. The sheer face is a popular climbing spot while the trail to the summit rewards hikers with stunning views. This moderately difficult hike...
Whitewater Falls Hiking: Whitewater Falls is believed by many to be the highest waterfall east of the Mississippi River and is measured at 411′ in height. The multi-tiered waterfall is easily accessible by car and provides a quarter mile walkway to an overlook. Additional...
Rainbow Falls Hiking Trail (Gorges State Park): The stunning and unique Rainbow Falls gets its name due to the beautiful rainbow that forms on sunny days as a result of the spray from the 60-foot waterfall. Rainbow Falls is accessed through Gorges State Park and is just a short drive...
Turkey Pen Hiking Loop: If you’re really up for a challenging loop, then this hike won’t disappoint – and it’s certainly not for the novice hiker. The initial climb out of the parking lot on Turkey Pen Trail heads straight up Sharpy Mountain for approximately 2 to...
A good mix or road bed and trail – Cove Creek is suitable for the novice hiker, yet even the avid outdoor’s person will enjoy the territory. Plus, if 2.5 miles round trip it’s too lax of a hiking journey, then be sure to sit and slide down the rock in the frigid river to...
Panthertown Valley Hiking Trails: Also known as the “Yosemite of the East”, Panthertown Valley is a rugged slice of approximately 6,300 acres that includes the headwaters of the Tuckasegee River, the East Fork of the Little Tennessee River, and numerous creeks and waterfalls...
If you enjoy tough, steep climbs and seldom-used trails, then check out Vineyard Gap at the Turkey Pen access to Pisgah. At just over 4.5 miles round trip, this is an out-and-back hike to a quiet section of the South Fork of Mills River. At the top of Forge Mountain, there are some pretty...
John Rock Hiking Trail: If you’re looking for killer views, then John Rock is the hike to take. There are a couple of trail approach options, either the long way (about 6 miles) or the shorter way (about 4 miles), but either way you’ll be rewarded with views of Looking Glass...
Coontree Gap Hiking Loop: For a challenging 3.7 mile loop with nice elevation changes and varying micro- environments, Coontree Loop is a great hike to check out. The trail begins across the road from the well known Coontree Picnic Area – where there is super fun rock to jump off...
Bennett Gap Hiking Trail: The 2.9-mile-long trail requires a car switch if you want to avoid backtracking. Most begin from Bennett Gap and travel downhill. This trail is mainly a ridgetop trail and affords nice views of the Pisgah Ledge, Looking Glass Rock, the Avery Creek valley, and...
Art Loeb Hiking Trail: With just over 30 miles of incredible hiking, the Art Loeb Trail is renowned as one of the most beautiful and difficult hikes of its length in the state. The trail is named for Art Loeb, an avid hiker and activist from the Carolina Mountain Club who had a fond...