Roam the Roan Highlands on this unforgettable section of the AT Considered one of the most scenic areas on the entire Appalachian Trail, this section starting from Carver’s Gap (elevation 5,512) takes you across three spectacular unique grassy hilltops (known as "balds") with unimpeded views. If you arrive in mid-to-late June, you’ll catch the rhododendron bloom, one of
An idyllic (and flat) hike in the woods for the true nature lover Nature lovers flock to the Pink Beds Loop Trail in Pisgah National Forest. The sounds of the rushing creeks and bird song add a peaceful, unhurried feeling to the atmosphere. Evidence of wildlife—such as the beaver dams seen on the ponds—is all around on this winding woodland trail. Uncommon in the Blue Ridge Mountains
High above it all on the Blue Ridge Parkway Tower above the Blue Ridge Parkway and enjoy panoramic views in all directions from this 70-foot-tall historic fire lookout tower. Fryingpan Tower is the tallest fire tower in Western North Carolina. So, even though the hike isn't difficult, this hike may not be for those who are afraid of heights. The only way to see the views on this hike
Three wonderful waterfalls on one Great Smoky Mountains National Park hike Deep Creek is one of the most beloved areas in the Smokies, known for offering the opportunity to see three beautiful waterfalls. Take a 5-mile loop hike to see them all or craft a shorter hike. Deep Creek is also known for its popular tubing sections -- one of which passes directly in front of one of the
A Blue Ridge Parkway classic, this is a local favorite When you think of views from the Blue Ridge Parkway, chances are these are the kinds of views that come to mind: the unimpeded, long-range vistas from Black Balsam Knob. Surrounded by wilderness, this tree-free ‘bald’ is an easy, family-friendly hike, ideal for picnicking or blueberry picking. Appalachian “balds” such
Take a hike in the forest just 15 minutes from downtown Asheville What to Expect This gentle trail takes hikers through Bent Creek Experimental Forest and the North Carolina Arboretum, with great views of mountain ridges and Lake Powhatan, as well as a glimpse of the magnificent Biltmore House. From the trailhead, walk through the gate and down the road. At the first
One hike, three of the region’s best waterfalls Dupont State Forest is the best place to discover why Brevard and Transylvania County is called “The Land of the Waterfalls.” Get a sampler of some of the area’s wonderful waterfalls with a (mostly) easy hike to Hooker Falls, Triple Falls and High Falls. Accessible enough for kids, the trails that connect the falls are scenic
A stroll through Asheville history Designed in 1885 in the park-like Victorian style, Riverside Cemetery is the final resting place of some of Asheville’s most prominent citizens, including Thomas Wolfe. Set on 87 shady acres, Riverside is a walk through Asheville’s past on smooth, paved trails, past over a dozen family mausoleums and impressive statuary. Stroll through this
Hollywood-worthy waterfalls make for family fun and great picnics Fans of The Hunger Games and Last of the Mohicans were introduced to Bridal Veil Falls in Dupont State Forest on the silver screen. Hikers can easily take in the view, too, with this easy, scenic stroll through the woods. With plenty of exposed rock around the falls, this is a great picnic spot. LEAVE NO TRACE TIP With so many
Walk behind a magical waterfall on this family-friendly hike This enchanting trail in Pisgah National Forest is an ideal introduction to hiking for families with younger kids. An easy .7 mile trail with wooden bridges, steps and boardwalks ends in a 50-foot plunge waterfall over a dramatic rock ledge. Kids love the fact that they can walk under the ledge and be behind the waterfall! 360 View -
