Outdoor Adventures and Hikes in WNC

The NC mountains are turning into its summer shades of lush green and smoky blue. Time to hike and explore them! Read below for my favorite trails and outdoor adventures in the North Carolina mountains that you can’t miss this summer! 

Unfortunately, some of my favorites like Elk River Falls and Calloway Peak are still closed from the heartbreaking damage of Hurricane Helene. However, North Carolina has done an amazing job of recovering beloved places, like Chimney Rock, for exploration and enjoyment!  

Craggy Pinnacle, Asheville

Trails:

Nuwati Trail, Grandfather Mountain

The endless view of leaves carving out the side of a mountain is different from any other view I have seen on a hike. This moderate, 3.2-mile out-and-back trail is underrated in Grandfather Mountain. 

Nuwati Trail

Flat Top, Blowing Rock: 

If you aren’t a big hiker, this trail is for you. Unlike most trails that wind through the mountain, Flat Top is an open trail surrounded by fields and has a farm-like feel to it. This 5.1-mile out-and-back, easy to moderate trail is one of the most open trails I have been on and includes a unique piece of North Carolina history on the property, the Moses Cone Memorial House. Moses and Bertha Cone built this house with a vision to create a unique display of American architecture. Their creative vision is also reflected in the crafts on display in the home.  

Flat Top Trail

Price Lake Loop, Blowing Rock: 

Another easy hike that is perfect for families and beginners is Price Lake Loop. The lake against the mountain backdrop requires no climb to see! This two-mile out-and-back hike is very accessible and fun. 

Beacon Heights Overlook:

Don’t miss this tucked-away trailhead in Linville! The sheet of rock at the end of the hike allows the chance to lie down and take in the skyline of mountain views. It is such a beautiful hike and is just under a mile out and back! 

Beacon Heights Trail

If hiking isn’t your thing, there is so much more to explore! 

Adventures: 

The Gorge, Saluda: 

I can’t say enough good things about this place. The Gorge ranks in the country’s top 10 aerial park rankings, is lined with mountain views and ziplines through the treetops, such friendly guides, a full photo package, and a mix of 3 rappels and 11 zips. The experience they create is truly one of a kind, and I am now a little obsessed with ziplining because of it:) 

The Gorge

High Country Expeditions River Tubing, Boone: 

Sometimes you just don’t want an adventure, and that's okay because you can 100% unwind and relax in the great mountains outdoors too! Think lazy river, but floating down refreshing mountain water instead. That is High Country River Tubing for you! Unwind for about 3 hours and float through the beauty of Boone. You can also purchase coolers in addition to floats! 

High Country Expeditions River Tubing

Run the Beech:

Soon to be your new favorite run! Whether you choose the 1 or 3-mile option, you will see the beautiful views of Beech Mountain, a popular ski and snowboard destination. There is a unique community essence to this race, as people stay after the run to chat over the pizza and beer provided at the finish. There are four dates per year across June and July, and the cool mountain air and positive energy make this run one of a kind!

Happy hiking and exploring! Let us know your favorites at customcarolinatravel.com or @customcarolinatravel on Instagram and TikTok. Thank you for exploring with us!!!