Looking for the best Nantahala hiking trails? Nestled in the heart of Western North Carolina, Nantahala National Forest offers more than 100 trailheads ranging from short, scenic strolls to rugged backcountry treks. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, sweeping mountain views, or a peaceful woodland escape, there’s a trail here to match every pace and passion.
We’ve rounded up a collection of top-rated trails across the forest—each with its own unique charm. Get ready to lace up your boots and explore the wild beauty of Nantahala.
Dry Falls Hiking Trail in Nantahala
0.4 miles | 11 min | easy
Perfect for families, casual walkers, or anyone craving a quick and stunning reward. This short trail leads you behind a 75-foot waterfall where mist sprays like nature’s air conditioner—a cool treat on a hot day. Expect some stairs and slippery spots, but the experience is unforgettable.
Trail Highlights:
- Walk behind the waterfall
- Dog-friendly (leash required)
- Wheelchair-accessible bathrooms and overlook
- Great for birdwatching
Pickens Nose Overlook Trail: Nantahala Scenic Hike
1.4 miles | 42 min | medium
Short but mighty, Pickens Nose rewards you with panoramic views from dramatic rock outcroppings. With fewer crowds even on weekends, it’s ideal for those who love solitude with a view.
Trail Highlights:
- Jaw-dropping mountain vistas
- Great for sunrise or sunset
- Moderate incline through lush forest
- Quiet and peaceful
Huckleberry Knob Nature Trail: Easy Nantahala Summit Hike
1.7 miles | 50 min | easy
This gentle trail leads to a grassy summit with 360-degree views, wildflowers, and wide-open skies. Great for families and sunset seekers, it’s also one of the best places to bring a picnic—or your pup.
Trail Highlights:
- Family-friendly
- Scenic mountaintop meadow
- Seasonal wildflowers
- First-come, first-serve campsites
whiteside mountain national recreation trail
1.9 miles | 1 hr 4 min | medium
A landmark trail along the Eastern Continental Divide, this loop climbs to a cliffside viewpoint towering 750 feet above the forest below. Steep in parts, but well worth the burn.
Trail Highlights:
- Wildflowers and pine forest
- Scenic stone steps and rock outcrops
- Rock climbing access
- $3 parking fee
Glen Falls Waterfall Trail: Best Hike in Nantahala for Swimming
2.4 miles | 1 hr 3 min | medium
Follow this trail through a series of cascading waterfalls. The third and final waterfall ends in a natural swimming hole—perfect for a mid-hike splash. The hike back is a steep ascent, so come prepared.
Trail Highlights:
- 3 waterfalls
- Swimming hole at the bottom
- Forested, shady path
- No cell service (download trail map!)
Ranger Falls Loop: Waterfall and Meadow Hike in Nantahala
2.4 miles | 1 hr 6 min | medium
This diverse trail winds through meadows, creeks, and forest before reaching a scenic waterfall. It offers options to hike out-and-back or complete the full loop. Ideal for nature lovers looking for variety.
Trail Highlights:
- Meadows, creeks, and forest
- Multiple trailheads
- Quiet upper loop for solitude
jack rabbit trail
4.1 miles | 1 hr 26 min | easy
A family favorite with lakeside views, this wide, shaded loop trail near the Jack Rabbit Campground is also popular with mountain bikers. It’s flat, well-maintained, and ideal for a leisurely nature walk.
Trail Highlights:
- Lakeside scenery
- Great for kids and bikes
- Spur trails to ridgetops and beaches
wesser creek trail
8.2 miles | 4 hr 50 min | hard
Once part of the Appalachian Trail, this strenuous route leads to the Wesser Bald Lookout Tower. The final reward? A panoramic view that stretches across multiple mountain ranges.
Trail Highlights:
- Steep wooded climb
- Historic fire tower
- Views of Smokies and beyond
nantahala yellow mountain trail
11.7 miles | 6 hr 28 min | hard
Widely regarded as one of the toughest hikes in the region, this trail climbs several peaks before reaching a historic fire lookout with sweeping views. It’s a bucket-list challenge for seasoned hikers.
Trail Highlights:
- Massive elevation gain
- Wildflower-filled ridgelines
- Historic lookout tower
standing indian: nantahala basin loop
21.6 miles | 10 hr 45 min | hard
This long loop follows a stretch of the Appalachian Trail around the Nantahala Basin. With high-elevation campsites, water sources, and rolling ridges, it’s perfect for multi-day backpacking.
Trail Highlights:
- Part of the Appalachian Trail
- Backcountry camping options
- Streams for refills
- Minimal cell service (bring a map!)
Ready to Explore?
No matter your skill level or hiking goals, the trails of Nantahala National Forest offer something magical around every bend. So gear up, head out, and experience the best of Nantahala hiking trails for yourself.
Looking to turn your hike into a full adventure? Stay with Timberroot in a cozy mountain cabin nearby and reconnect with nature after a day on the trail.
Tags: Eastern Smokies, Hiking, Outdoor Adventures
