Rip & Go: Bartram Trail – Nantahala National Forest, NC
Climb past a glimmering highland lake to a lofty southern bald.
North Carolina Trails
North Carolina Trails
Hiking in North Carolina is an incredibly varied experience. Located in the southeastern U.S., the state is known for its narrow and sandy string of islands named the Outer Banks that extend into the Atlantic Ocean. The Atlantic Coastal Plain along the state’s shoreline is swampy and shallow, rising into the Piedmont Plateau farther inland, which is dominated by rolling hills.
On the western side of the state, the Blue Ridge Mountains stretch into Virginia, while the Smoky Mountains extend along the Tennessee border. The most famous spot for hiking in North Carolina is easily the 2,184-mile-long Appalachian National Scenic Trail, generally known as the Appalachian Trail or simply the AT, which passes through this area.
Hiking in North Carolina is an incredibly varied experience. Located in the southeastern U.S., the state is known for its narrow and sandy string of islands named the Outer Banks that extend into the Atlantic Ocean. The Atlantic Coastal Plain along the state’s shoreline is swampy and shallow, rising into the Piedmont Plateau farther inland, which is dominated by rolling hills. On the western side of the state, the Blue Ridge Mountains stretch into Virginia, while the Smoky Mountains extend along the Tennessee border. The most famous spot for hiking in North Carolina is easily the 2,184-mile-long Appalachian National Scenic Trail, generally known as the Appalachian Trail or simply the AT, which passes through this area.
Readers' Choice 2012: Creekside Loop, Pisgah NF, NC
Looking for a mellow weekend with swimming options? We have you covered.
Rip & Go: Two Gorges Loop – Gorges State Park, NC
Trace the watery divide between the Carolinas.
Backyard Everests: Stone Mountain
Top a Yosemite-like dome in a sea of green.
Rip & Go: Big Creek Loop
Hike from a wildlife-choked river valley to soaring mountain views.
Readers' Choice: Appalachians
Your favorite parks, weekend getaways, peak ascents, campsites, and more in the Appalachians.
Local Hikes: Southeast
The best local hikes in the southeast, as chosen by the area's best hiking clubs.
Southeast Reader Map Team
Check out Katie Herrel's author page.
Rip & Go: Black Balsam Knob to Cold Mountain – Pisgah National Forest, NC
Trek 18.2 miles from the South's best view to its most famous mountain.
High Points: Mt. Mitchell, North Carolina
A high point that provides an alluring combination of scenery, storms, and access.