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
Albert Mountain Fire Tower
Site Open
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
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 Trailhead
Site Open
Is now part of the Kids in Parks initiative. This trail offers an interactive experience while fostering increased physical activity for children and their families.
Appalachian TR1
Site Open
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…
Appletree TR19b
Site Open
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…
Appletree Group Campground
Sleep under the Stars. Looking for a campsite for a group of people near the Nantahala River? The four sites at Appletree Group Campground accommodates two sites (A and D) for up to 25 people each…
Arrowhead Campground
Site Open
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…
Art Loeb Trailhead, Camp Daniel Boone
Site Open
Camp Daniel Boone is located near Cold Mountain and the highest peaks in the Black Balsam area. Many folks use this trail for extended backpacking trips (at least 2-3 days), connector trails to form…
Art Loeb Trailhead, Davidson River
Site Open
.
Badin Lake Campground
Site Open
Bordering the lakeshore and under the shade of pines and hardwoods, Badin Lake Campground offers a year-round retreat for swimmers, boaters, and anglers. The campground has 35 non-electric sites for…