The state of North Carolina, home to some of the highest peaks and 900 miles of diverse scenic trails, is undoubtedly a tramper's paradise. Whether you are an experienced hiker or an amateur, this state will surely mesmerize you with its breathtaking views and peaceful beaches.
There may be various different options to quench your hillwalker's thirst, but the state parks of North Carolina will always remain on top of the list. So, Pack your bag, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the most exciting hiking parks in the state with us!
10 South Mountains Park, North Carolina
Situated in the middle of the Appalachian Mountains and the Foothills, an hour's drive from Asheville, South Mountain State Park, is a perfect weekend getaway. The park features mountains up to 3000 feet with an extended 50 miles of hiking trails for an instant adrenaline boost to the hikers. Additionally, you can also enjoy other recreational pursuits such as horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, and thrilling water adventure activities to make the most of your hiking quest.
9 Eno River Park, North Carolina
Home to various rare species of birds and animals, Eno River State Park is an absolute treat for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. With almost 30 miles of trekking trails spread alongside the sparkling river streams and beautiful landmarks, Eno River State Park is absolutely a backpacker's wonderland. Apart from that, the park also offers multiple camping sites and picnic shelters for tourists to intensify their hiking experience sitting beside the bonfires.
8 Raven Rock Park, North Carolina
Nestled next to the Cape Fear River in Harnett County, Raven State Park envelopes 5000 acres of land with around 50 miles of hiking treks and biking trails. The hiking pathways pass through beautiful and scenic landscapes and forest canopies and to the fierce Raven Rock cliff, lingering at 150ft height and a mile width. The park also offers a variety of other pleasurable activities, such as picnic shelters, campsites for RVs and backpackers, and various water ventures along the bank of Cape Fear River.
7 Stone Mountain Park, North Carolina
Established in 1969, Situated at a distance of 60 miles northwest of Winston Salem, Stone Mountain State Park is among the country's historic natural landmarks. The gigantic 600 feet granite dome, restored in the middle of the nineteenth century, is the park's prime attraction. With its beautiful hiking trails extending across 20 miles and sparkling brooks with trouts, the park offers a variety of fun and recreational activities to maximize your hiking experience.
6 Mount Mitchell Park, North Carolina
Built back in 1915, Mount Mitchell is one of the oldest State parks in Carolina. The park features the highest point of the East Mississippi River and a 360-degree mesmerizing view of the Black Mountains, offering over 5000 acres of green land with various mid-level hiking trails for adventurers. However, the only bad part about the park is the cold weather; the trails are covered in fog and snow for the most part of the year. So plan your trip around spring or summer to make the most out of your hiking expedition.
5 Crowders Mountain Park, North Carolina
Crowders Mountain State Park, situated at a 45 minutes distance from Charlotte county, offers around 11 difficult to beginners level hiking trails. The Pinnacle and the Crowders are the most taken trail routes of the park because of the beautiful landscapes of the breathtaking Piedmont area. If you are an amateur hiker, these two trails are a sure shot to take to level up your endurance and explore the everlasting beauty of the wilderness.
4 Grandfather Mountain Park, North Carolina
Grandfather Mountain State Park, as the name suggests, features a gigantic 300 million-old, 5946 ft tall sky-high mountain. This cliff is a challenging terrain and an absolute grail for passionate trekkers. One of the most attractive features of the trek is the hanging suspension bridge, built over an 80 ft chasm. The sound of the hanging bridge swinging against the blowing wind is no less than music to ears.
3 Hanging Rock Park, North Carolina
Established in the 1930s, Hanging Rock State Park offers countless recreational activities. The park covers over 9000 acres of vast trail areas consisting of woodlands, sparkling brooks, and waterfalls. These beautiful trails proceed to the named Hanging Rock cliff in less than a 1.3-mile of hike. With an elevation of 2159 ft, this cliff is among the most beautiful canyon in America. The sight of the serene landscape and gleaming waters from the cliff's viewpoint is worth every ounce of this challenging journey.
2 Pilot Mountain Park, North Carolina
Pilot State Park, situated 20 miles away from Winston-Salem, features some of the most exciting hiking trails in North Carolina. The highlight of these trails is the great pilot mountain, elevated 2421 ft above sea level. Your body may get exhausted exploring the vast network of serene trails but never your heart. Apart from hiking, the park also offers other activities like camping, rock climbing, horseback riding, and fishing to add to your outdoor fun even more.
1 Chimney Rock Park, North Carolina
Situated in Rutherford country, Chimney Rock State Park is home to some of the most extraordinary landmarks, such as The Great Chimney Rock mountain, the Hickory Nut Gorge canyon, and the beautiful Lake lure. The park offers almost 10 hiking treks of varying difficulties expanding from the vast areas of the canyon to the top of the chimney rock peak. The other outdoor activities offered by the park include fishing, rock climbing, and biking.