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Hiking

For many, exploring a trail is the best way to enjoy the national forests in North Carolina. With more than 1,700 miles of trails, a variety of opportunities await you - from short, easy walks to long-distance backpacking adventures.

Search for Hiking Opportunities

Showing: 1 - 10 of 486 results

Albert Mountain Fire Tower

Site Open
Hiking
Albert Mountain Fire Tower:  Albert Mountain is a mountain in North Carolina's Nantahala Range of the Appalachian Mountains. The Appalachian Trail goes along its summit, which is around 5,200 feet…

Ammons Branch Campground

Site Open
Hiking Outdoor Science and Learning
Dispersed camping along Bull Pen Road. Four dispersed sites are available with picnic tables and lantern hangers. A pit toilet is available. Please pack in and pack out.

Andy Cove Nature Trail

Hiking
0.7 mi - Easy - First time visitors should take advantage of this nature trail, which is an easy walk for all ages. Several interpretive signs along the way point out common plants, trees and animals…

Andy Cove Trailhead

Site Open
Hiking Outdoor Science and Learning
Part of the Kids in Parks initiative, this trail offers an interactive experience while fostering increased physical activity for children and their families.

Appalachian Trail

Hiking
This trail follows the mountain crest from Maine to Georgia and passes through Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests for more than 200 miles. Open to hikers only, the trail boasts a chain of shelters…

Appalachian Trail #1-02

Hiking
Famous as the first National Scenic Trail, the Appalachian Trail (AT) enters the Cheoah District at the Nantahala River, climbs over Cheoah Bald and past Stecoah and Yellow Creek Gaps before…

Appletree Group Campground

Water Activities Hiking Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
The four sites at Appletree Group Campground accommodates two sites (A and D) for up to 25 people each and two sites (B and C) for up to 50 people each. Each site has its own picnic shelter, outdoor…

Appletree Trail

Hiking
Rated as difficult, the Appletree Trail climbs 1,640 feet and connects with four other area trails. With two stream crossings, the 2.2-mile trail meanders through an array of flowering plants, such…

Arrowhead Campground

Site Open
Hunting, Fishing and Shooting Hiking Water Activities
Arrowhead Campground has 48 sites for Tent/RV camping. Sites #46-#49 are tent only. All sites, except for site #23, are accessible to people with disabilities. Each site has a table, grill, fire…

Last updated March 25th, 2025