Some of Our Favorite Hikes in the NC High Country 2023

The North Carolina High Country is a hiker's paradise. With its stunning mountain views, lush forests, and miles of trails, it's no wonder that so many people flock to the area for outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or an intense trek, we have it all! Check out some of our favorite hiking trails you need to experience for yourself.

For getting to know more about these hikes and how to get there, we recommend using Alltrails.com. Their app is excellent for when you are out and about.

Boone Fork Trail

Located in the Julian Price Memorial Park in Blowing Rock, Boone Fork Trail is a 5.4-mile loop that takes you through the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The trail is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, including streams, waterfalls, and forests. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, as this area is home to black bears, deer, and other animals. This is one of the most popular trails in the area, easily accessed from the Price Park parking lot.

Green Knob Mountain Trail

Also known as the Sim's Pond Trail, this 2.3-mile trail is one of the best short hikes in the area. Start from the Sim's Pond overlook, with the recommended direction counter-clockwise. For the first mile or so, the trail winds around Sim's Pond and continues under the massive parkway bridge through rhododendron tunnels, several creek crossings and small waterfalls. The trail then follows the creek bed up the valley through dense foliage with to a lovely pasture area at the top.

Flat Top Mountain Fire Tower Trail

The moderate Flat Top Mountain Fire Tower Trail (5.6 miles roundtrip) begins from the Cone Manor on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Blowing Rock. It’s an old carriage trail that ends at a fire tower. It might threaten your fear of heights (like ours) but the top offers incredible 360-degree views of Blowing Rock and the mountains all around. While the trail is long, the path is wide and not very steep. This hike near Blowing Rock takes you along a beautiful meadow and to plenty of terrific photo opportunities!

Rough Ridge Trail

Probably the biggest bang for the buck! Enjoy spectacular mountain views of Grandfather Mountain and Linn Cove Viaduct, with distant views into the Piedmont, from the hike on Rough Ridge. Just a 1/3-mile uphill hike from the parking area (Milepost 302.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina) is a boardwalk atop the rocky mountain that protects fragile vegetation. Continue hiking for another 1/2 mile to the Rough Ridge summit (4,773 ft. elevation). The views keep getting better! There are several large boulders along the trail that you can sit on to take in the views. Take a picnic! At the summit, the highest rock has cables to help you reach the top. Total elevation climb from the parking area is 480 ft.

Linville Gorge Wilderness

Linville Gorge Wilderness is a much revered area located in the Pisgah National Forest, and is known as the "Grand Canyon of the East". The wilderness area offers over 39 miles of trails, ranging from easy to strenuous, and includes incredible views of the Linville River and the surrounding mountains. Hikers can explore deep gorges, lush forests, and rocky cliffs, and can even find hidden waterfalls along the way. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as the terrain can be challenging. The following three hikes are part of this area.

Wiseman's View and Table Rock

These two hikes are located in the Linville Gorge Wilderness area and offer some of the most breathtaking views in the region. Wiseman's View is a short, 0.5-mile walk that takes you to a lookout point over the Linville River and the surrounding mountains. Table Rock is a bit more challenging, with a 1-mile climb to the top of the mountain (2 miles total out and back). And the views are well worth the effort!

Hawksbill Mountain

Another great hike in the Linville Gorge Wilderness area is Hawksbill Mountain. This 2.4 mile out and back trail takes you to the summit of Hawksbill Mountain, which offers amazing views of the surrounding landscape. This is a moderate hike, and be prepared for some steep sections near the top and rocky terrain. Gorgeous flat rocks to enjoy lunch or just hanging out at the top.

Grandfather Mountain Profile Trail

This 7.2-mile trail takes you to the summit of Grandfather Mountain, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape along the way. The trail is challenging, with steep switchbacks and narrow paths, so be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water and snacks. The trail also offers opportunities to see wildlife, including black bears and deer.

Crabtree Falls Trail

Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Crabtree Falls is a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail that takes you to a stunning waterfall. Along the way, you'll hike through forests and over streams, and be rewarded with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The waterfall itself is a great spot for a picnic or a rest break before heading back down.

Gragg Prong

Do you love water? Gragg Prong 6.8-mile round trip hike in Pisgah National Forest, that leads to a beautiful multilevel waterfall and swimming hole. The trail is moderate and perfect for families and beginner hikers. You will make several creek crossings.

Roan Mountain

A beautiful and unique hiking destination on the Tennessee/North Carolina border, featuring several hiking trails, including:

• Roan High Knob Trail - a challenging 7.6-mile round-trip hike to the summit of Roan High Knob, the highest peak in the Roan Mountain area, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Carver's Gap to Grassy Ridge Bald - a moderate 2.5-mile round-trip hike, featuring stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and wildflowers in the spring and summer.
• Roan Mountain State Park Loop Trail - a moderate 2.6-mile loop trail, featuring beautiful views of the mountains and forests in Roan Mountain State Park.

Elk Knob State Park

For a more secluded hiking experience near Boone, check out Elk Knob State Park. The main trail is 3.8 miles out and back. At the summit, you can enjoy sweeping vistas looking both north and south.