States north carolina
Eastern United States

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!

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Trail Locations in north carolina

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Trails in north carolina

Showing 24 of 73 trails

Alder Trail

Iredell County

3

0.8-mile easy trail in Lake Norman State Park.

0.8 mi
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Appletree Trail

Macon County

8

Hiking trail near Nantahala Lake

2.2 mi
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Basin Cove Creek Trail

Alleghany County

8

1.7-mile strenuous path along a creek with historic cabin ruins.

1.7 mi
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Big Creek Loop

Haywood County

7

Nice Waterfalls on this Smokey Mountain Trail

16.9 mi
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Black Balsam Knob

Haywood County

5

5-mile moderate loop over bald summits with expansive views.

5.0 mi
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Bluff Loop Trail

Halifax County

4

1.75-mile easy to moderate loop at Medoc Mountain State Park.

1.75 mi
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Bluff Mountain Trail

Alleghany County

5

7.5-mile moderate trail with open meadows and panoramic mountain views.

7.5 mi
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Boone Fork Trail

Watauga County

5

4.8-mile moderate loop in Julian Price Memorial Park near Blowing Rock.

4.8 mi
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Campbell Creek Loop Trail

Harnett County

5

4.5-mile moderate loop in Raven Rock State Park.

4.5 mi
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Cascades Trail

Ashe County

5

Hike to a waterfall in E. B. Jeffress Park

1.0 mi
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Catawba Falls Trail

McDowell County

2

A scenic riverside hike to a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall.

3.0 mi
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Cedar Point Tideland Trail

Carteret County

2

Trail in Croatan National Forest

1.9 mi
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Cedar Ridge Trail

Alleghany County

5

4.2-mile moderate day hike through vistas and forests in Doughton Park.

4.2 mi
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Company Mill Trail

Wake County

5

5.8-mile moderate loop at William B. Umstead State Park.

5.8 mi
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Courthouse Falls Trail

Transylvania County

2

A hidden gem tucked away in a remote cove of Pisgah National Forest.

0.6 mi
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Craggy Gardens Trail

Buncombe County

2

Hike through rhododendron tunnels to 360-degree views on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

1.4 mi
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Craggy Pinnacle Trail

Buncombe County

3

A short steep climb to a rocky summit with panoramic Blue Ridge views.

1.0 mi
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Cumberland Knob Trail

Alleghany County

3

Hiking trail to Cumberland Knob

0.5 mi
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Daniel Boone Scout Trail

Avery County

8

6.5-mile strenuous round-trip to Calloway Peak on Grandfather Mountain.

6.5 mi
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Deep Gap Trail

Yancey County

8

Moderate hike from Mt. Mitchell to Mt. Craig, the second-highest peak in the East.

2.3 mi
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Devil's Courthouse Trail

Transylvania County

8

Breathtaking panoramic view at the top

0.42 mi
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Dragonfly Trail

Iredell County

2

0.25-mile easy trail for a short nature walk.

0.25 mi
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Dry Falls Trail

Macon County

1

Walk behind a 75-foot waterfall on the Cullasaja River.

0.3 mi
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Elk Falls Trail

Avery County

2

A dramatic 50-foot waterfall tumbling into a deep gorge.

0.4 mi
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