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
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…
Badin Lake Group Camp
Site Open
Badin Group Camp was developed for use by clubs, families and other groups up to 50 people. The camp includes three separate areas each with tables, grills and tent pads. Two vault toilet…
Badin Lake Hiking Trail TR 94
The Badin Lake Hiking Trail is a loop trail that follows the shore of Badin Lake for half its distance, then loops back through hardwood forest to Cove Boat Ramp. A short loop of 2.5-miles can be…
Badin Lake Recreation Area
Site Open
Badin Lake Recreation Area offers swimming, boating, fishing, hunting, hiking trails, equestrian trails, four-wheel drive trails, mountain biking trails & camping opportunities. Please pick up your…
Bald Knob Ridge TR 186
Site Temporarily Closed
From NFSR 472 the trail ascends switchbacks to the ridge. It offers good views of the Black Mountains and passes through stands of red spruce and Fraser fir trees. Several primitive campsites are in…
Balsam Lake and Picnic Area
Recreation Day Use Area near the 8-acre Balsam Lake offering fishing piers, 1/2-mile hiking trail, picnic shelter and vault toilet. Non-motorized boats are permitted. The fishing piers, trail and…
Balsam Lake Lodge
Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains on the Nantahala District, Balsam Lake Lodge offers a special getaway for groups who reserve the whole facility for $170 on weekdays to $200 on weekends, per…
Barnett Branch Trail
3.85 mi - Moderate -
Bartram Trail
The Bartram Trail is a National Recreational Trail that follows the route of the Naturalist William Bartram during his visit in 1773 through 1777. Throughout his explorations, Bartram documented the…