Discover North Carolina: The Great Trails State with Stunning Waterfalls and Scenic Hikes

The idea that hitting the trails is only for the mega-athletes among us is a thing of the past. More and more people are getting out on their local pathways — with trail use increasing by a whopping 45 percent between 2019 and 2022, according to the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. This dramatic jump in trail use can be attributed to the vast number of newbies who are exploring their local hiking and biking trails.

This upward trend is not going unnoticed in North Carolina, a state that’s long been nicknamed “The Great Trails State.” North Carolina prides itself on its access to the great outdoors — for individuals of all interests and skill levels. Consequently, the state has named 2023 the “Year of the Trail” with an initiative to share the hiking, biking, boating, and horse trails available across the state. In addition to regular events — such as group bike rides, outdoor gallery walks, and birding hikes — they’re showcasing the trails that make North Carolina so special.

Here are a few of our favorites, featuring routes for hikers, bikers, paddlers, and horseback riders.

For Hikers

Deep Creek Waterfall Loop in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

If you’re seeking an easy route that has plenty to see, look no further. The Deep Creek Waterfall Loop is short (2.4 miles roundtrip) but packs a punch. Along the way, you’ll encounter three waterfalls, and if timed right, you might even catch some beautiful spring wildflowers.

However, it’s essential to note that this loop is one of the area’s most popular, so commencing your journey early will help you avoid crowds.

Looking Glass Rock Trail in the Pisgah National Forest

There’s a lot to appreciate about Looking Glass Rock Trail. The 6.2-mile out-and-back route is rated as moderate, providing hikers with enough challenge to keep the day engaging. Moreover, it is popular with hikers as well as runners and rock climbers who come to tackle climbing routes that have been compared to those in Yosemite National Park.

Hikers of all levels will enjoy gazing at the towering rock walls and views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Triple Falls Trail in Dupont National Forest

This trail is short — at just 1 mile, round trip — yet filled with beauty. During the brief journey, you’ll encounter three stunning waterfalls, including one that served as a filming location for The Hunger Games. For those seeking additional waterfall scenery, consider the 4.5-mile round-trip Three Waterfalls Hike, leading you to five waterfalls: Hooker Falls, High Falls, and the three Triple Falls.

Both waterfall-laden routes are situated in Dupont National Forest, a 10,000-acre outdoor playground revered for its stunning cascades, glassy lakes, and breathtaking mountain vistas.

For Bikers

Mountains to Sea

Bikers have long been enamored with North Carolina’s Mountains to Sea route, which effortlessly connects the mountains in the west to the state’s mesmerizing eastern coast. Completing the entire route, which is more than 700 miles, requires several days, but you can bypass the overnights (and climbs) by testing your legs on the final section of trail that runs along the coast from Swan Quarter to Manteo at the Outer Banks.

For those who choose to conquer the full route, expect to witness the best of North Carolina — including rugged mountains, rolling pastures, and many of the state’s largest cities, including Asheville, Durham, and Raleigh.

For Paddlers

Roanoke River State Trail

North Carolina’s Roanoke River was designated a state trail in 2021, but the river has long been a premier destination for paddlers eager to embark on a watery journey from the coastal plain to the Atlantic Ocean. This enchanting route passes through the largest intact bottomland hardwood forest ecosystem east of the Mississippi, abounding with wildlife — including black bears, river otters, bobcats, and beavers.

Along the many miles of river trail, kayakers and canoers can camp at several riverside camping platforms, linked by nearly 140 miles of water trail.

For Horseback Riders

Auger Hole Trail in Gorges State Park

While you can hike and bike the Auger Hole Trail, it’s arguably best experienced atop a trusted steed. The route, which is fairly strenuous, traverses through the heart of Transylvania County’s Gorges State Park, recognized for its backcountry-style recreation.

The 14-mile round-trip trail starts from Frozen Creek and concludes at Turkey Pen Gap (at least for horseback riders and mountain bikers). Furthermore, there are two river crossings and steep terrain to keep both you and your horse adequately challenged.