At Enjoy Unique Stays, we believe the best way to escape the ordinary is by stepping into nature. Hiking in western North Carolina offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. From towering waterfalls to wide open mountain balds, this region is a paradise for outdoor lovers.
We have hosted thousands of guests in the area. We always get asked about the best trails to explore. Whether you want a quick family walk or a steep climb to the clouds, we put together this guide to share our favorite local spots.
💡 Insight: Did you know? Day hiking is one of the most popular activities in our region. A recent report showed that outdoor recreation brings over four billion dollars to western North Carolina every year.
Must Visit National Forests and Parks
Before you pick a specific trail, it helps to know the main park areas. The mountains here are vast and full of diverse landscapes.
Pisgah National Forest
Our guests constantly tell us how peaceful they feel here. This massive forest is packed with rushing rivers, deep woods, and hundreds of miles of trails.
Many visitors love driving the Blue Ridge Parkway through the forest before stopping for a hike. You will find endless spots to pull over, take photos, and connect with nature.
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Location: North Carolina
- Contact: +1 828-257-4200
Learn more about Pisgah National Forest
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
This is one of the most visited parks in the country for good reason. The signature smoky mist rolling over the green valleys is truly magical.
Our guests love spotting wildlife like black bears and wild turkeys. It features trails for all skill levels and plenty of quiet streams to sit beside.
- Rating: 4.9/5
- Location: North Carolina and Tennessee border
- Contact: +1 865-436-1200
Learn more about Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Our Favorite Waterfall Hikes
There is something very special about hearing a waterfall before you even see it. These are a few of our top picks. For even more options, you can read our full guide to the best waterfalls in western North Carolina.
Looking Glass Falls
If you want a stunning waterfall with very little hiking, this is the perfect stop. You can see the sixty foot drop right from the road or take a short walk down the stairs.
Many of our guests love feeling the cool mist on their faces during warm summer days. It is a family friendly spot that feels deeply refreshing.
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Location: US-276, Brevard, NC 28712
Learn more about Looking Glass Falls
Graveyard Fields
This unique loop trail offers multiple waterfalls and beautiful views of the surrounding valley. In the late summer, the path is bursting with wild blueberries.
Our guests suggest taking the short, paved path to the lower falls if you have small kids. For more adventure, the hike to the upper falls is rocky but very rewarding.
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Location: Graveyard Fields, Canton, NC 28716
Learn more about Graveyard Fields
Crabtree Falls Trail
This trail requires a bit more effort, but it ends at one of the most dramatic waterfalls in the area. The path drops steeply into a mossy, shaded forest cove.
Hikers mention that the heavy flow of water here is spectacular year round. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes, as the roots and rocks can get slippery.
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Location: 39000 Blue Ridge Pkwy, Marion, NC 28752
Learn more about Crabtree Falls Trail
Best Mountain Summit Trails
If you want to feel like you are standing on top of the world, these trails deliver. For more ideas on how to fill your itinerary, check out our list of things to do in western North Carolina.
Max Patch
This grassy mountain bald is part of the famous Appalachian Trail. Because the summit is completely open, you get completely clear views in every direction.
We highly recommend packing a picnic and timing your hike for sunset. The dirt road to get here is a bit bumpy, but the panoramic sky is worth every mile.
- Rating: 4.9/5
- Location: Max Patch Rd, Hot Springs, NC 28743
Learn more about Max Patch
Black Balsam Knob
Walking along the treeless ridge of Black Balsam Knob is unforgettable. It is one of the easiest ways to reach elevations over six thousand feet.
Our guests love how the trail opens up almost immediately, offering sweeping views without a grueling climb. It can get very windy at the top, so bringing an extra layer is smart.
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Location: North Carolina 28716
Learn more about Black Balsam Knob
Rough Ridge Lookout
If you want iconic photos of the Blue Ridge Parkway, this is the place to go. A short but steep hike takes you to wooden boardwalks suspended over the mountainside.
People travel from all over to see the fall colors from this rocky outcrop. Parking can be tight on weekends, so arriving early is always a good idea.
- Rating: 4.9/5
- Location: 3218 Blue Ridge Pkwy, Linville, NC 28646
Learn more about Rough Ridge Lookout – Grandfather Mountain, NC.
💡 Insight: Local tip: Mountain weather changes fast. The air temperature drops by about ten degrees when you drive up into the higher elevations. Always bring a light jacket and extra water.
A Few Things the Mountains Won’t Let You Skip
Western North Carolina’s trails are breathtaking, but the mountains here play by their own rules. Elevations rise quickly, weather rolls in without warning, and the backcountry has a way of testing even the most seasoned hikers. Whether you are tackling a short waterfall loop or a full ridge climb, these are the essentials that belong in your pack every single time.
Plan Your Mountain Escape With Us
Hiking in western North Carolina is the perfect way to slow down and reconnect with what matters most. Whether you want to conquer steep summits or just enjoy a quiet stroll by a stream, these mountains have something for everyone.
At Enjoy Unique Stays, we love helping our guests find the perfect home base. Many people choose our Western Carolinas vacation rentals to stay close to the best trails. Let us help you escape the ordinary and make memories that will last a lifetime. Book your stay with us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to hike in western North Carolina?
Fall is the most popular time because of the stunning leaf colors. Spring is beautiful for wildflowers and rushing waterfalls. Summer is great for escaping the heat since the mountains stay much cooler.
Are dogs allowed on the trails?
Most trails in the national forests allow dogs, but they must be kept on a leash. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is stricter and does not allow dogs on most dirt trails. Always check the rules for your specific trail before you go.
Do I need a map, or are the trails well marked?
It is always best to download a map to your phone before you leave. Cell phone service is very spotty in the mountains. Many trails are marked with paint on the trees, but having a downloaded map keeps you safe.
Are there bears on these hiking trails?
Yes, black bears live throughout the region. They are usually shy and avoid people. Stay safe by making noise while you walk, carrying out all your trash, and never trying to feed or approach a bear.
Are the trails open after the recent storms?
Most major trails and parks have reopened. However, storm recovery is still ongoing in some parts of the region. It is a good idea to check local park websites for any road or trail closures before driving out.
