Avid hikers know that North Carolina is an outdoorsman's paradise because of its varied landscape, from the pristine Atlantic Ocean to the lush Appalachian Mountains. The mention of that mountain alone evokes a trekking adventure unlike any other, as the Appalachian Trail is one of the best hiking routes in the United States – if not the world.The Old North State is also home to the majestic Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most visited in the country, and the ever-scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. With such attractions, it’s not surprising that North Carolina is flocked by hikers who want to get out there.
10 Grandfather Mountain
Grandfather Mountain is part of the lush Blue Ridge Mountains, and the Blue Ridge Parkway passes on its southern portion. As such, those hiking this recreational area near Linville are afforded spectacular views. There are at least eight trails in this destination, with the easy and moderate ones passing by the tourist-favorite Mile High Swinging Bridge. Trekkers who want some challenge can take the strenuous Grandfather Trail, while backpackers are welcome to test their skills along the eastern side of the Daniel Boone Scout Trail. Whatever the route, Grandfather Mountain won’t disappoint.
9 Looking Glass Rock
Looking Glass Rock is one of the Appalachian Mountains' iconic spots, a rewarding sight for avid hikers. This monolith got its name because when the sunlight hits its granite rock face, there seems a mesmerizing reflection. Located in the lush Pisgah National Forest, the trail to this popular landmark is challenging, spanning over six miles – or nearly four hours of trekking. Sure, the journey is taxing, but when hikers reach the monolith, they’ll have stunning views of the forest. Pure bliss, nothing more, nothing less.
8 Triple Falls Trail
North Carolina is proud of the lushness of DuPont State Forest, where hikers can busy themselves meandering its trails. One popular route is the one leading to the majestic Triple Falls, an almost three-mile path that takes over an hour to finish. The marked trail is scenic, preparing trekkers for the even more scenic three-step falls. Hikers will follow the pristine river until they reach the base of High Falls, where rock-hopping will keep them busy. If trekkers want, they can start the journey from Hooker Falls, covering three cascades. There’s no rush, anyway, except for rushing waters.
7 Pickens Nose Trail
Covering 1.5 miles, Picken Nose Trail invites trekkers for an hour of adventure, where they will reach a rock sticking out of the mountainside. This path offers a moderate hike, where trekkers will opt to have a few stops every once in a while, not to rest but to appreciate blooming rhododendrons. While passing a tunnel of trees, they’ll even decide to stay longer not unless they are so excited to reach the craggy summit. Once there, they’ll have stunning views of the Appalachians, a rewarding experience for weary travelers.
6 Profile Trail
Profile Trail is one of Grandfather Mountain’s hiking routes, a 7.2-mile path that takes four hours to complete. To get the most out of the experience, trekkers can scale Calloway Peak for another one or two hours. Wildflowers will welcome tourists at the start of the journey before they cross the pristine Watauga River. Afterward, the open area of Rich Cove awaits, where herbs and rhododendrons await. The trail becomes uphill and steeper, offering stunning views – preparing trekkers for scenic vistas. Tourists should expect a more challenging trail if they decide to reach Calloway Peak.
5 Craggy Pinnacle
The Craggy Pinnacle Trail starts from an overlook of Blue Ridge Parkway, leading trekkers to, as the name suggests, a rocky peak. Atop, they’ll have commanding views of Craggy Gardens, “home to the most spectacular floral display” in the park. The trek is short, a 1.4-mile round-trip journey for around 20 minutes, or longer if hikers deem they deserve a few stops to take in the sights and sounds of the trail. That’s normal because Blue Ridge Parkway has a unique beauty that deserves appreciation.
4 Black Balsam Knob
Those who want a 360-degree vista of some of North Carolina’s stunning natural wonders should trek the 1.5-mile Art Loeb Trail that leads to Black Balsam Knob. Rocks make the hike difficult, but once tourists overcome them, they’ll be welcomed by stunning scenery, perfect for sunrise or sunset viewing. Once at the endpoint, the breeze is ready to play with tourists as if thanking them for the visit. As such, trekkers will realize that a repeat hike is a must.
3 Mountains-To-Sea Trail
Aside from the hiker-favorite Appalachian Trail, North Carolina is also proud of another long-distance trek: the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. This 1,175-mile route takes hikers, as its name suggests, from the ever-beautiful Great Smoky Mountains to the barrier islands of the Outer Banks. The journey starts from Clingman's Dome and ends in Jockey's Ridge State Park, where an expansive dune paradise awaits. Thru-hikers will need three to four months to finish it, but everyone's welcome to try just portions of it as it's teeming with scenic trails.
2 Whiteside Mountain
The hiking path in Whiteside Mountain is a National Recreation Trail, so trekkers are assured of a safe journey, where scenic views await them. The two-mile loop’s climax is when tourists start scaling the 750-foot high cliffs, the perfect seat to take in the sights and sounds of the lush Nantahala National Forest. The trail is challenging because of its steepness, but it’s a rewarding experience once tourists feel the wind on their faces as they relax atop the rock. Indeed, Whiteside Mountain rocks.
1 Latta Nature Preserve
Latta Nature Preserve is the largest in Mecklenburg County or 1,460 acres of playground for tourists who want to feel the wonders of the outdoors. There are more than 16 miles of trails in this lush destination, taking tourists to where the wild things are – from vegetation to wildlife. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring this North Carolina charmer as it affords them a chance to commune with the environment, all the while breaking a sweat. What’s more, they can take a dip in the pristine Mountain Island Lake, so if they are not satisfied testing their legs, kayaks await their arms.