There’s nothing like a picturesque hiking trail. Here in North Carolina, we have loads of them, and each offers a unique perspective of our beautiful landscape. From the mysterious Smoky Mountains to the sprawling coastline, the Tar Heel State lends itself to some seriously unforgettable trails. If you’re wondering about the best hikes in North Carolina, we’ve outlined 15 of them that are sure to impress nature enthusiasts of any kind. So lace up those hiking boots and let’s get to hiking!

  1. Raven Rock Trail, Campbell Creek Trail, and Lanier Falls Trail

ncparks.gov All of these trails are located in Raven Rock State Park off of Highway 421 between Sanford and Lillington. Raven Rock, measuring 2.6 miles, is the more popular trail while Campbell Creek and Lanier Falls will offer more peace and serenity. Raven Rock State Park, 3009 Raven Rock Rd, Lillington, NC 27546, USA

  1. Stone Mountain Loop

Flickr / Ben Sanborn South of the Blue Ridge you’ll find Stone Mountain Loop. This immaculate granite bulge makes for great pictures, as well as a nice hike. The 5.2-mile loop takes you around Stone Mountain, past a waterfall, and to the Hutchinson family homestead that was occupied from 1855-1955. Stone Mountain, North Carolina 28685, USA

  1. Harper Falls

ncwaterfalls.com For a brisk hike with a rewarding end, hike to the popular Harper Falls near Wilson Creek. Pace yourself, the first part of the 1.6-mile hike is the steepest. When you get to Harper Falls relax and dip your toes in the cool water. Harper Falls Court, Harper Falls Ct, North Carolina 28164, USA

  1. Little Sugar Creek Greenway

meetup.com If you’re in the middle of Charlotte but want to dip into nature take a walk on Little Sugar Creek Greenway. The greenway has four different stop and start points. One of the most popular sections is between E. 7th Street and Morehead. In just a little over 3 miles, you’ll have beautiful views of Uptown before exploring a walking trail beside Sugar Creek. With such beautiful views of nature, you’ll forget how close you are to the city. Little Sugar Creek Greenway, Charlotte, NC, USA

  1. Sycamore Trail

Roots Rated Located in William B. Umstead State Park, this is another trail that takes you out of the city and into nature. On the 7.6-mile trail, you have the opportunity to get to Sycamore Lake (if the water isn’t too high) and you might even be able to see the remnants of an old dam. The trail is peaceful and serene, you’ll forget you’re right near Raleigh. William B Umstead State Park Road, William B Umstead State Park Rd, Raleigh, NC 27617, USA

  1. Uwharrie/Dutchman’s Creek Trail Loop

www.trails.com Outside of Asheboro, you can get a taste of wild, untouched nature. This is a more difficult trail on the list but if you’re seeking isolation and a good workout, this could be the perfect option for you. The Uwharrie Trail is 19 miles long while Dutchman’s Creek Trail is 11 miles long. Both have trailheads in the same location and meet back up six miles in to form a 12-mile loop. The trails are USFS land and are more rugged than other trails. It’s also a popular site for camping. Be sure to wear appropriate colors during hunting season. Dutchmans Creek, North Carolina 27371, USA

  1. Sugarloaf Dune Trail

Roots Rated Trade in the mountain views for sandy dunes and salty air. The 2.8-mile Sugarloaf Dune Trail at Carolina Beach State Park takes you through the coastal habitat. You might even spot a Venus Fly Trap in the wild. Carolina Beach State Park, 1010 State Park Rd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428, USA

  1. Moore’s Wall Loop Trail

Jacalyn Engler Hanging RockState Park is one of the most popular hiking destinations just an hour outside of the Triad. You could certainly spend a whole day here. For an introductory hike, the 4.3-mile Moore’s Wall Loop Trail takes you on a brisk hike where the endpoint is a platform with 360-degree views. The Lower Cascade Trails is also a good cool down. It’s short, with waterfall views. Everyone has their favorite waterfall at Hanging Rock, but with an abundant amount of trails to choose from, you’ll want to come back again and again. Moores Wall, North Carolina 27052, USA

  1. Crabtree Falls Loop Trail

Justin P. / AllTrails This somewhat strenuous hike is well worth it with such a breathtaking view. The 2.5-mile Crabtree Falls Loop Trail starts at milepost 339.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The trail takes you through growths of birch and hemlock and loops around the beautiful Crabtree Falls. This is a great late morning-early afternoon hike. Crabtree Falls, North Carolina 28777, USA

  1. Mountains-to-Sea Trail

Flickr / Alex Ford When completed, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail will span 900 miles from Clingman’s Dome to the Outer Banks. For now, the trail is easily accessible from multiple points. One of the best being the Folk Art Center, mile marker 382.0 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Hopping on here, you’ll pass Craven Gap, Rattlesnake Lodge, and Craggy Gardens. While a long trail, if you get tired or if the weather gets too cold you can always turn around. This trail will be absolutely amazing when completed. Mountains-to-Sea Trail, North Carolina, USA

  1. Jomeokee Trail

Flickr / Susan Smith For an easy hike with beautiful scenery, try the Jomeokee Trail at Pilot Mountain State Park. Just outside Winston-Salem, Pilot Mountain is extremely popular for day trips with a mountain feel. Jomeokee Trail takes you around the big pinnacle in just under 1 mile. There are plenty of small nooks to sit down and have a picnic as well. Try the trail during October when the changing leaves make for breathtaking scenery. Pilot Mountain State Park, 1792 Pilot Knob Park Rd, Pinnacle, NC 27043, USA

  1. Croatan National Forest Trails

Flickr / LollyKnit It’s hard to choose just one hike in Croatan National Forest because each one gives you something different. Cedar Creek Trail takes you through tidal marsh, the Neusiok Trail is the coast’s longest backpacking trail, Island Creek Forest Walk takes you through untouched coastal forest, and Patsy Pond gives you serenity and beautiful pines. The trails total 31 miles, and it’ll be easy to see why they’re some of our favorite hiking trails in North Carolina.

  1. Flat Laurel Creek Trail

Flickr / wes hill Flat Laurel Creek is a great, peaceful alternative to the popular Graveyard Fields Trails. The 2.5-mile Flat Laurel Creek Trail starts at a high elevation valley with grassy balds and dark, spruce-fir trees. You can take an optional trail to the summit of Sam’s Knob. The trail lies beneath both Sam’s Knob and Black Balsam Knob. From here, you can also hike to a waterfall on Flat Laurel Creek. This beautiful trail can be a rewarding hike or scenic starting point. Flat Laurel Creek Trailhead, Canton, NC 28716, USA

  1. Erwin’s View Trail

Michael Freas / AllTrails Linville Falls is a popular destination along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Erwin’s View Trail starts at the visitor center. In half a mile, you’ll reach an overlook where you can see the two upper falls. Take the upper trail from Erwin’s View to Chimney Overlook or Erwin’s View Overlook. Both will give you breathtaking views of Linville Falls and the gorge. Linville Falls, NC 28752, USA

  1. Appalachian Trail

Flickr / Frank Kehren When it comes to the best hiking trails in North Carolina, it doesn’t get much more epic than the Appalachian Trail. Spanning 2,180 miles from Georgia to Maine, it offers some of the most gorgeous views in North Carolina. Points of interest along the Appalachian Trail in North Carolina are Clingman’s Dome, just a 0.5 mi. hike to the highest point of the Appalachian Trail. Lovers Leap Loop for a great family hike that is only 1.6 miles. Fontana Dam (pictured above), and Max Patch a 2.6-mile hike that takes you to a grassy summit with 360 mountain views. Appalachian National Scenic Trail, United States

Do you agree that these are some of the best hiking trails in North Carolina? What are some of your other favorite trails in North Carolina? Be sure to tell us in the comments!

ncparks.gov

All of these trails are located in Raven Rock State Park off of Highway 421 between Sanford and Lillington. Raven Rock, measuring 2.6 miles, is the more popular trail while Campbell Creek and Lanier Falls will offer more peace and serenity.

Raven Rock State Park, 3009 Raven Rock Rd, Lillington, NC 27546, USA

Flickr / Ben Sanborn

South of the Blue Ridge you’ll find Stone Mountain Loop. This immaculate granite bulge makes for great pictures, as well as a nice hike. The 5.2-mile loop takes you around Stone Mountain, past a waterfall, and to the Hutchinson family homestead that was occupied from 1855-1955.

Stone Mountain, North Carolina 28685, USA

ncwaterfalls.com

For a brisk hike with a rewarding end, hike to the popular Harper Falls near Wilson Creek. Pace yourself, the first part of the 1.6-mile hike is the steepest. When you get to Harper Falls relax and dip your toes in the cool water.

Harper Falls Court, Harper Falls Ct, North Carolina 28164, USA

meetup.com

If you’re in the middle of Charlotte but want to dip into nature take a walk on Little Sugar Creek Greenway. The greenway has four different stop and start points. One of the most popular sections is between E. 7th Street and Morehead. In just a little over 3 miles, you’ll have beautiful views of Uptown before exploring a walking trail beside Sugar Creek. With such beautiful views of nature, you’ll forget how close you are to the city.

Little Sugar Creek Greenway, Charlotte, NC, USA

Roots Rated

Located in William B. Umstead State Park, this is another trail that takes you out of the city and into nature. On the 7.6-mile trail, you have the opportunity to get to Sycamore Lake (if the water isn’t too high) and you might even be able to see the remnants of an old dam. The trail is peaceful and serene, you’ll forget you’re right near Raleigh.

William B Umstead State Park Road, William B Umstead State Park Rd, Raleigh, NC 27617, USA

www.trails.com

Outside of Asheboro, you can get a taste of wild, untouched nature. This is a more difficult trail on the list but if you’re seeking isolation and a good workout, this could be the perfect option for you. The Uwharrie Trail is 19 miles long while Dutchman’s Creek Trail is 11 miles long. Both have trailheads in the same location and meet back up six miles in to form a 12-mile loop. The trails are USFS land and are more rugged than other trails. It’s also a popular site for camping. Be sure to wear appropriate colors during hunting season.

Dutchmans Creek, North Carolina 27371, USA

Trade in the mountain views for sandy dunes and salty air. The 2.8-mile Sugarloaf Dune Trail at Carolina Beach State Park takes you through the coastal habitat. You might even spot a Venus Fly Trap in the wild.

Carolina Beach State Park, 1010 State Park Rd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428, USA

Jacalyn Engler

Hanging RockState Park is one of the most popular hiking destinations just an hour outside of the Triad. You could certainly spend a whole day here. For an introductory hike, the 4.3-mile Moore’s Wall Loop Trail takes you on a brisk hike where the endpoint is a platform with 360-degree views. The Lower Cascade Trails is also a good cool down. It’s short, with waterfall views. Everyone has their favorite waterfall at Hanging Rock, but with an abundant amount of trails to choose from, you’ll want to come back again and again.

Moores Wall, North Carolina 27052, USA

Justin P. / AllTrails

This somewhat strenuous hike is well worth it with such a breathtaking view. The 2.5-mile Crabtree Falls Loop Trail starts at milepost 339.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The trail takes you through growths of birch and hemlock and loops around the beautiful Crabtree Falls. This is a great late morning-early afternoon hike.

Crabtree Falls, North Carolina 28777, USA

Flickr / Alex Ford

When completed, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail will span 900 miles from Clingman’s Dome to the Outer Banks. For now, the trail is easily accessible from multiple points. One of the best being the Folk Art Center, mile marker 382.0 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Hopping on here, you’ll pass Craven Gap, Rattlesnake Lodge, and Craggy Gardens. While a long trail, if you get tired or if the weather gets too cold you can always turn around. This trail will be absolutely amazing when completed.

Mountains-to-Sea Trail, North Carolina, USA

Flickr / Susan Smith

For an easy hike with beautiful scenery, try the Jomeokee Trail at Pilot Mountain State Park. Just outside Winston-Salem, Pilot Mountain is extremely popular for day trips with a mountain feel. Jomeokee Trail takes you around the big pinnacle in just under 1 mile. There are plenty of small nooks to sit down and have a picnic as well. Try the trail during October when the changing leaves make for breathtaking scenery.

Pilot Mountain State Park, 1792 Pilot Knob Park Rd, Pinnacle, NC 27043, USA

Flickr / LollyKnit

It’s hard to choose just one hike in Croatan National Forest because each one gives you something different. Cedar Creek Trail takes you through tidal marsh, the Neusiok Trail is the coast’s longest backpacking trail, Island Creek Forest Walk takes you through untouched coastal forest, and Patsy Pond gives you serenity and beautiful pines. The trails total 31 miles, and it’ll be easy to see why they’re some of our favorite hiking trails in North Carolina.

Flickr / wes hill

Flat Laurel Creek is a great, peaceful alternative to the popular Graveyard Fields Trails. The 2.5-mile Flat Laurel Creek Trail starts at a high elevation valley with grassy balds and dark, spruce-fir trees. You can take an optional trail to the summit of Sam’s Knob. The trail lies beneath both Sam’s Knob and Black Balsam Knob. From here, you can also hike to a waterfall on Flat Laurel Creek. This beautiful trail can be a rewarding hike or scenic starting point.

Flat Laurel Creek Trailhead, Canton, NC 28716, USA

Michael Freas / AllTrails

Linville Falls is a popular destination along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Erwin’s View Trail starts at the visitor center. In half a mile, you’ll reach an overlook where you can see the two upper falls. Take the upper trail from Erwin’s View to Chimney Overlook or Erwin’s View Overlook. Both will give you breathtaking views of Linville Falls and the gorge.

Linville Falls, NC 28752, USA

Flickr / Frank Kehren

When it comes to the best hiking trails in North Carolina, it doesn’t get much more epic than the Appalachian Trail. Spanning 2,180 miles from Georgia to Maine, it offers some of the most gorgeous views in North Carolina. Points of interest along the Appalachian Trail in North Carolina are Clingman’s Dome, just a 0.5 mi. hike to the highest point of the Appalachian Trail. Lovers Leap Loop for a great family hike that is only 1.6 miles. Fontana Dam (pictured above), and Max Patch a 2.6-mile hike that takes you to a grassy summit with 360 mountain views.

Appalachian National Scenic Trail, United States

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The OIYS Visitor Center

Best Hikes In North Carolina July 22, 2022 Beth C. / Tori Jane What are the most beautiful hikes in North Carolina? It’s hard to imagine the state of North Carolina without its impressive trails system. There are hundreds upon hundreds of trails in North Carolina, each offering a unique perspective of the landscape. If you’re looking for the most beautiful hikes in North Carolina, you might start with any of the following: Looking Glass Rock Trail, Catawba Falls Trail, Grassy Ridge Bald, Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Falls Trail, Crabtree Falls Trail Loop, Boone Fork Trail, Black Balsam Knob, Shortoff Mountain, and Stone Mountain Loop Trail. No matter which trail you choose, be sure to bring your camera for photo opportunities and don’t forget to pack plenty of water. Happy hiking! Which state parks should I visit in North Carolina? North Carolina is famous for its beautiful state parks, which can be found in nearly every corner of the state. Some of the most popular state parks in North Carolina include Mount Mitchell State Park, which is home to the tallest peak in all of North Carolina, Chimney Rock State Park, Gorges State Park, Jockey’s Ridge State Park, South Mountains State Park, Hammocks Beach State Park, Fort Macon State Park, Morrow Mountain State Park, Grandfather Mountain State Park, and Merchants Millpond State Park. Keep in mind that North Carolina has over 40 state parks, so there’s truly something for everyone. What are the best outdoor adventures in North Carolina? In addition to hiking, North Carolina offers countless other opportunities for outdoor recreation. Some of the best outdoor adventures in North Carolina include camping. Whether you prefer traditional car camping, backpacking, or glamping (short for glamour camping), you’ll find no shortage of incredible options in the Tar Heel State. In fact, North Carolina is famous for its beautiful campgrounds, some of which are located right on the beach. Curious to browse some of the best campgrounds in North Carolina? Check out our list of the most incredible campgrounds you can visit here in North Carolina.

The OIYS Visitor Center

Best Hikes In North Carolina

July 22, 2022

Beth C. / Tori Jane

What are the most beautiful hikes in North Carolina? It’s hard to imagine the state of North Carolina without its impressive trails system. There are hundreds upon hundreds of trails in North Carolina, each offering a unique perspective of the landscape. If you’re looking for the most beautiful hikes in North Carolina, you might start with any of the following: Looking Glass Rock Trail, Catawba Falls Trail, Grassy Ridge Bald, Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Falls Trail, Crabtree Falls Trail Loop, Boone Fork Trail, Black Balsam Knob, Shortoff Mountain, and Stone Mountain Loop Trail. No matter which trail you choose, be sure to bring your camera for photo opportunities and don’t forget to pack plenty of water. Happy hiking! Which state parks should I visit in North Carolina? North Carolina is famous for its beautiful state parks, which can be found in nearly every corner of the state. Some of the most popular state parks in North Carolina include Mount Mitchell State Park, which is home to the tallest peak in all of North Carolina, Chimney Rock State Park, Gorges State Park, Jockey’s Ridge State Park, South Mountains State Park, Hammocks Beach State Park, Fort Macon State Park, Morrow Mountain State Park, Grandfather Mountain State Park, and Merchants Millpond State Park. Keep in mind that North Carolina has over 40 state parks, so there’s truly something for everyone. What are the best outdoor adventures in North Carolina? In addition to hiking, North Carolina offers countless other opportunities for outdoor recreation. Some of the best outdoor adventures in North Carolina include camping. Whether you prefer traditional car camping, backpacking, or glamping (short for glamour camping), you’ll find no shortage of incredible options in the Tar Heel State. In fact, North Carolina is famous for its beautiful campgrounds, some of which are located right on the beach. Curious to browse some of the best campgrounds in North Carolina? Check out our list of the most incredible campgrounds you can visit here in North Carolina.

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

It’s hard to imagine the state of North Carolina without its impressive trails system. There are hundreds upon hundreds of trails in North Carolina, each offering a unique perspective of the landscape. If you’re looking for the most beautiful hikes in North Carolina, you might start with any of the following: Looking Glass Rock Trail, Catawba Falls Trail, Grassy Ridge Bald, Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Falls Trail, Crabtree Falls Trail Loop, Boone Fork Trail, Black Balsam Knob, Shortoff Mountain, and Stone Mountain Loop Trail. No matter which trail you choose, be sure to bring your camera for photo opportunities and don’t forget to pack plenty of water. Happy hiking!

Which state parks should I visit in North Carolina?

North Carolina is famous for its beautiful state parks, which can be found in nearly every corner of the state. Some of the most popular state parks in North Carolina include Mount Mitchell State Park, which is home to the tallest peak in all of North Carolina, Chimney Rock State Park, Gorges State Park, Jockey’s Ridge State Park, South Mountains State Park, Hammocks Beach State Park, Fort Macon State Park, Morrow Mountain State Park, Grandfather Mountain State Park, and Merchants Millpond State Park. Keep in mind that North Carolina has over 40 state parks, so there’s truly something for everyone.

What are the best outdoor adventures in North Carolina?

In addition to hiking, North Carolina offers countless other opportunities for outdoor recreation. Some of the best outdoor adventures in North Carolina include camping. Whether you prefer traditional car camping, backpacking, or glamping (short for glamour camping), you’ll find no shortage of incredible options in the Tar Heel State. In fact, North Carolina is famous for its beautiful campgrounds, some of which are located right on the beach. Curious to browse some of the best campgrounds in North Carolina? Check out our list of the most incredible campgrounds you can visit here in North Carolina.