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north carolina
Are you ready for a breathtaking outdoor adventure into the stunning natural wonderland that is North Carolina? Have you been scouring the web for interesting and exciting hiking trails in this state to explore? Whether you’ve lived here your entire life or are just visiting, get ready to embark on some truly unique hikes through some of NC’s most stunning sights. From mountain peaks boasting gorgeous views, to lush forests full of hidden surprises - there’s no doubt that these trails will leave an indelible mark on your memory. So pack up your supplies, grab your walking shoes, and let’s take an amazing journey through the incredible hiking trails in North Carolina!
North Carolina is home to many beautiful hiking trails that offer a variety of landscapes and experiences. Here are a few of the top hiking trails in the state:
- The Appalachian Trail: This iconic 2,192-mile trail runs through the eastern United States and passes through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.
- The Linville Gorge Wilderness Area: This wilderness area is home to more than 50 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Linville Falls Trail, which leads to a series of beautiful waterfalls.
- The Great Smoky Mountains National Park: This park is home to more than 800 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Chimney Tops Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- The Pisgah National Forest: This forest is home to more than 500 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Art Loeb Trail, which offers a challenging backcountry experience.
- The Hanging Rock State Park: This park is home to a variety of trails, including the popular Hanging Rock Trail, which leads to a beautiful lookout point.
In North Carolina, you can find many different environments within a close proximity, making it the perfect state to go hiking. From the mountains to the coast, there are an endless amount of trails to explore. And with so many options, you can always find a trail that meets your level of experience. Hiking is also a great way to clear your mind and relax. Being in nature has been proven to reduce stress levels and improve mental clarity. So if you’re looking for a reason to take some time off this year, consider going on a hike in North Carolina – your body and mind will thank you!
Trail Locations in north carolina
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Trails in north carolina
Appletree Trail
Macon County
Hiking trail near Nantahala Lake
Big Creek Loop
Haywood County
Nice Waterfalls on this Smokey Mountain Trail
Cascades Trail
Ashe County
Hike to a waterfall in E. B. Jeffress Park
Catawba Falls Trail
McDowell County
A scenic riverside hike to a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall.
Cedar Point Tideland Trail
Carteret County
Trail in Croatan National Forest
Courthouse Falls Trail
Transylvania County
A hidden gem tucked away in a remote cove of Pisgah National Forest.
Craggy Gardens Trail
Buncombe County
Hike through rhododendron tunnels to 360-degree views on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Craggy Pinnacle Trail
Buncombe County
A short steep climb to a rocky summit with panoramic Blue Ridge views.
Cumberland Knob Trail
Alleghany County
Hiking trail to Cumberland Knob
Devil's Courthouse Trail
Transylvania County
Breathtaking panoramic view at the top
Dry Falls Trail
Macon County
Walk behind a 75-foot waterfall on the Cullasaja River.
Elk Falls Trail
Avery County
A dramatic 50-foot waterfall tumbling into a deep gorge.
Four Seasons Trail
Rutherford County
Hike inside Chimney Rock Park
Graveyard Fields Loop
Haywood County
Visit two waterfalls and pick wild blueberries in this high-elevation valley.
Gully Creek Trail
Alleghany County
Hiking trail in Cumberland Knob Recreation Area
Hickory Nut Falls Trail
Rutherford County
Hiking trail to the falls in Chimney Rock Park
High Falls Trail DuPont
Transylvania County
The tallest waterfall in DuPont State Forest at 150 feet.
Hooker Falls Trail
Transylvania County
An easy walk to a beautiful swimming waterfall in DuPont State Forest.
Island Creek Forest Walk
Craven County
Hiking trail along Island Creek
Joyce Kilmer Recreation Trail
Graham County
Old growth forest with yellow poplars that are over 100 feet tall and measure 15 to 20 feet in circumference
London Bald Trail
Macon County
Hiking trail through Nantahala National Forest
Looking Glass Rock Trail
Transylvania County
Climb to the summit of an iconic granite dome with panoramic Pisgah views.
Max Patch
Madison County
A grassy bald with 360-degree mountain views along the Appalachian Trail.
Moore Cove Falls Trail
Transylvania County
Walk behind a graceful 50-foot waterfall in Pisgah National Forest.
Mount Mitchell Summit Trail
Yancey County
Stand atop the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.
Neusiok Trail
Craven County
Hiking Trail through Croatan National Forest
Rough Ridge Trail
Avery County
A boardwalk through fragile alpine terrain to sweeping Grandfather Mountain views.
Skinny Dip Falls Trail
Transylvania County
A popular Blue Ridge Parkway trail to swimming holes and a small waterfall.
Skyline-Cliff Trail Loop
Rutherford County
Hiking loop through Chimney Rock Park
Sliding Rock
Transylvania County
A natural 60-foot waterslide in the heart of Pisgah National Forest.
South Mountains Waterfall Trail
Burke County
High Shoals Falls drops 80 feet in one of NC's most scenic state parks.
Stone Mountain Loop Trail
Wilkes County
Circle a massive granite dome with waterfalls and scenic views.
Triple Falls Trail
Transylvania County
Three stunning waterfalls featured in The Hunger Games films.
Van Hook Trail
Macon County
Short trail from Van Hook Campground to Cliffside Lake Recreation Area
Waterrock Knob Trail
Haywood County
The highest Parkway trailhead with sunset views into four states.
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