For sweeping 360-degree views, hike across these bald mountaintops. Almost entirely devoid of trees above 6,000 ft., the summit is more reminiscent of New England than North Carolina. Black Balsam Knob is part of the 30-mile Art Loeb Trail, so you can hike as far as you want.Show details
Hiking
Whiteside Mountain Trail
The Whiteside Mountain Trail, located near Highlands, North Carolina, offers a memorable hiking experience with some of the most dramatic and breathtaking views in the region. This loop trail spans approximately 2 miles and is classified as moderate in difficulty, making it accessible for most hikers. The trail features a steady ascent through a lush forest, leading to the summit of Whiteside Mountain, which boasts sheer vertical cliffs rising to...Show details
Hiking
Sam Knob Trail
The Sam Knob Trailhead, located within the Pisgah National Forest near the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, serves as the starting point for an array of breathtaking hiking adventures. The trailhead provides access to the Sam Knob Trail, a moderately challenging hike that spans approximately 2.2 miles round trip. This trail leads hikers through a picturesque landscape of grassy balds, wildflower-strewn meadows, and dense forest areas. The highlight of...Show details
Hiking
Pink Beds Trail Loop
The Pink Beds Trail Loop in the Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, North Carolina, is a nice and easy 5.1-mile hike. The trail takes you through the Pink Beds Valley, known for its pretty mountain bogs and diverse wildlife. Its name comes from the pink flowers such as mountain laurel and rhododendron that bloom in spring and summer. You’ll walk through forests, meadows, and streams, and there are boardwalks to...Show details
Hiking
Mount Mitchell Summit Trail
The Mount Mitchell Summit Trail, located in Mount Mitchell State Park in North Carolina, leads hikers to the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, standing at an impressive 6,684 feet. This short yet relatively challenging trail spans approximately 0.4 miles out and back, starting from the park’s lower parking area and ascending through a lush, high-elevation forest filled with Fraser firs, red spruce, and diverse undergrowth. The short steep...Show details
Hiking
Lover’s Leap Hiking Trail
The Lover’s Leap Hiking Trail in Hot Springs, North Carolina, offers a scenic and moderately challenging hike with breathtaking views of the French Broad River and the surrounding Appalachian Mountains. This 1.6-mile loop trail begins at the Silvermine Trailhead, just a short distance from the town of Hot Springs. The trail ascends steeply through a forested area, featuring rocky outcrops and dense vegetation. As hikers reach the summit of Lover’s...Show details
Hiking
John Rock Trail
This moderately strenuous trail spans approximately 5 miles round trip, featuring a mix of dense hardwood forests, rhododendron thickets, and serene streams. The trail’s highlight is the expansive granite outcrop known as John Rock, which offers hikers a sweeping view of the surrounding forested mountains and the nearby Looking Glass Rock. The panoramic scenery from John Rock is especially spectacular during the fall when the foliage transforms into a vibrant...Show details
Hiking
Graveyard Fields Loop Trail
Hiking in Graveyard Fields Loop Trail along the Blue Ridge Parkway is an exhilarating experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Located in North Carolina, this scenic area is known for its unique landscape and natural beauty. It features a variety of trails, perfect for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers. The Graveyard Fields Loop Trail, approximately 3.2 miles long, is the centerpiece of the area. It guides visitors through open meadows, dense...Show details
Hiking
Fryingpan Mountain Lookout Tower
Hiking to Fryingpan Mountain Lookout in North Carolina’s Pisgah National Forest offers an exhilarating adventure with rewarding panoramic views. The trail is a moderate 1.5-mile round trip, making it accessible to a wide range of hikers. Starting near the Blue Ridge Parkway, the path ascends gradually through a dense forest of hardwoods and rhododendrons. The highlight of the hike is the historic Fryingpan Fire Tower, one of the highest lookout...Show details
Hiking
Flat Rock Loop Trail
The Flat Rock Loop Trail in Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia, is a 1.5-mile hike suitable for all skill levels. The trail passes through forests, meadows, and rocky areas, providing diverse scenery. Hikers can enjoy stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the valley below from the Flat Rock viewpoint, which is especially beautiful during the fall. Watch for the park’s famous wild ponies along the way. This accessible...Show details
Hiking
Art Loeb/Cold Mountain Trailhead
The Art Loeb/Cold Mountain Trailhead in the Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, North Carolina, offers hikers access to one of the region’s most scenic and challenging hikes. The trail, named after local hiker and activist Art Loeb, stretches over 30 miles and is renowned for its diverse landscapes, which include lush forests, expansive balds, and rugged mountain terrain. The trailhead provides access to Cold Mountain, the challenging ascent made famous...Show details
