Hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains
With over 1,000 miles of trails in Transylvania County, all you have to decide is how far you want to go. Whether you’re ascending a mountainside, wandering through lush forests, or chasing the mist of a waterfall, Transylvania County gives hikers of all ages and skill levels the chance to take a turn on the road less traveled. Many trails are also pet-friendly as long as your furry friend stays leashed. From naturally winding paths to rugged mountain routes, our trails make Transylvania County the ultimate base camp for hiking in North Carolina, where every journey reveals breathtaking beauty and a story waiting to unfold.
North Carolina Hiking Trails
Discover breathtaking trails through Gorges State Park, DuPont State Recreational Forest, and Pisgah National Forest, from leisurely walks to challenging hikes. To stay prepared and safe, bring maps and guidebooks. Check out our trail recommendations below for inspiration!
Popular Hiking Trails in Pisgah National Forest
Pisgah National Forest is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems. With a variety of trails ranging from easy to challenging, hikers can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying stunning vistas and tranquil streams.
- Looking Glass Rock Trail
- John Rock Loop
- Moore Cove Falls Trail
- Devil’s Courthouse Overlook Trail
- Fryingpan Mountain Lookout Tower
- Pink Beds Loop
- Cove Creek Falls
- Courthouse Falls
DuPont State Recreational Forest Hiking Trails
DuPont State Recreational Forest offers well-maintained trails that cater to all hiking skill levels. Its unique combination of rocky terrain and smooth paths leads to picturesque waterfalls and serene forest settings, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- High Falls and Triple Falls
- Wintergreen Falls
- Hooker Falls
- Stone Mountain
- Big Rock and Cedar Rock
Hiking in Gorges State Park
Gorges State Park features some of the most dramatic landscapes in North Carolina, with trails that navigate through stunning gorges and diverse plant life. This park is perfect for those looking to explore nature’s beauty while enjoying a good hike.
- Canebrake Trail
- Rainbow and Turtleback Falls
- Upper Bearwallow Falls
- Auger Hole Trail
Trail Running In the Great Outdoors
Embrace the thrill of trail running and discover the joy of exploring Brevard’s stunning landscapes at your own pace. Whether you prefer a leisurely jog or a challenging sprint, the trails here invite you to lace up your shoes and hit the ground running! Family-friendly options like the Andy Cove Trail provide a gentle introduction for beginners, while seasoned runners can tackle the more demanding Black Mountain Trail or the scenic Pink Beds Loop. With a diverse range of trails, Transylvania County offers something for everyone looking to enjoy the beauty of nature through running.
Leave It Better
When exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Transylvania County, please help us protect these special places by following the “Leave It Better” principles. Small actions, like packing out your trash or picking up litter left behind, go a long way in preserving our pristine trails and waterways. And while you’re out there, keep an eye out for “Trashsquatch,” our mythical forest dweller, formed out of litter left behind in his home, who reminds us to leave the land even better than we found it. Together, let’s keep these wild spaces thriving for everyone to enjoy.
Get Inspired
Dive into our blogs for inspiring stories, helpful tips, and ideas to enhance your visit.
Your Go-To for Gear and Guides
From guided treks to grabbing gear, we’ve got everything you need to conquer Brevard’s stunning landscapes. Explore our directory then lace up those boots and let the adventure begin!
Adventure Grown Guides
828-209-8791
D.D. Bullwinkel’s Outdoors
60 E Main St
Brevard, 28712
828-862-4700
Brevard’s premier outdoor retailer, offering high-quality clothing, footwear, and gear for every adventure. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to help you find the right gear and share tips for making the most of your time outdoors.
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Earthshine Lodge’s Llama Hikes
1600 Golden Rd
Lake Toxaway, 28747
828-862-4207
Enjoy a one-of-a-kind hike in the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains with friendly llamas! Hikers will learn about the llamas’ interesting histories and how to safely handle the animals before heading out on a hike with gorgeous mountaintop views on our…
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GuideR Adventure
833-613-0615
Nero Experiences
678-967-9377
A hiking and backpacking guiding company focused on connecting people to nature over great coffee brewed fresh at waterfalls around Brevard, NC.
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Next Venture Outdoors
190 N Broad St
Brevard, 28712
Outdoor Fitness Brevard
248-255-8880
Pura Vida Adventures
272 Walden Ridge Trail
Brevard, 28712
772-579-0005
Guided waterfall rappelling, rock climbing, canyoneering, mountain biking, hiking, backpacking, waterfall tours, paddling trips, and adventure race instruction. Established in Brevard in 2006, still locally owned by original owners.
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Spud and Deb’s Dog Hunting Supplies & More
677 Capps Rd
Pisgah Forest, 28768
SylvanSport
21 Welcome St.
Brevard, 28712
828-393-4927
Headquartered in Brevard, NC, SylvanSport is the leader in innovative, lightweight campers, trailers, and outdoor gear. Since 2004, SylvanSport’s mission has been to make camping more comfortable for everyone to enjoy.
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The Hub
11 Mamas Pl
Pisgah Forest, 28768
At The Hub, you can rent mountain bikes, get a tune-up, grab a coffee, and stock up on any gear you need for a day in Pisgah National Forest. After hitting the trails, you can meet up with friends, enjoy some local brews on tap, and grab a bite from…
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The Outpost at Lake Toxaway
10932 Rosman Hwy.
Lake Toxaway, 28747
828-845-4515
One stop shop for gem mining, local gifts, coffee, wine, beer and souvenirs!! Shop from over 55 local, small businesses accross WNC in one spot while sipping on local coffee! Located right in Lake Toxaway, 15 minutes from Brevard!
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Be Prepared
Dive into our resources for safe and mindful exploration of our beloved mountain oasis.