The best walks and hikes in North Carolina

The state is famous for its waterfalls. For a trail that features multiple falls, the Juney Whank Falls, Tom Branch Falls & Indian Creek Falls Loop in the Great Smoky Mountains is an excellent choice. Another popular option is the Four Season Trail to Upper & Lower Hickory Nut Falls, which leads to the impressive falls within Chimney Rock State Park.

Yes, there are many options suitable for families. The Whiteside Mountain National Recreation Trail is a relatively short loop of about 2 miles (3.1 km) that offers fantastic views for the effort. Another great choice is the Cox Mountain Trail loop in Eno River State Park, which provides a gentle walk along the river.

Several state and national parks are highly regarded by hikers. Pisgah National Forest is a vast, popular area known for its forests, peaks, and waterfalls. Hanging Rock State Park offers unique rock formations and great views. For riverside hiking, Eno River State Park is a local favorite near Durham. Near Charlotte, Crowders Mountain State Park provides more challenging climbs.

Many trails in North Carolina are dog-friendly, but policies vary by park. Dogs are generally welcome in state parks and national forests like Pisgah National Forest, provided they are on a leash. However, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has stricter rules, with dogs typically only allowed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and along roads. Always check the specific regulations for the trail you plan to hike.

For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the Mount Pisgah & Little Pisgah Mountain trail offers significant elevation gain and rewarding views from the summit. The route involves a steep climb to the observation deck on Mount Pisgah.

You can hike in North Carolina year-round, but spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons. Spring offers blooming wildflowers, including the famous rhododendrons at Craggy Gardens. Autumn provides spectacular fall foliage, especially along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and cooler, more comfortable hiking temperatures.

Yes, there are many excellent circular routes. The Black Balsam Knob & Tennent Mountain Loop is a fantastic option that follows a portion of the Art Loeb Trail over open balds with 360-degree views. This trail is celebrated for its scenic, high-altitude landscape.

There are over 1,300 hiking routes in North Carolina to explore. These range from easy riverside walks to difficult mountain ascents, with hundreds of options for both moderate and easy skill levels.

The trails in this region are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning panoramic views from the mountain balds, the abundance of waterfalls, and the well-maintained paths through lush forests.

For a day hike, essentials include:

• Water: Bring more than you think you'll need.
• Snacks: High-energy food to keep you going.
• Navigation: A map, compass, or a GPS device with offline maps.
• Layers: Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so pack a rain jacket and an extra layer for warmth, even on a sunny day.
• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip are essential.
• Sun Protection: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Most trailheads, especially those along the Blue Ridge Parkway and in state or national parks, are accessed by car. Popular spots like Newfound Gap or trailheads in Pisgah National Forest have dedicated parking lots, but they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is highly recommended. Public transport to trailheads is very limited in most mountain areas.