It is always wonderful to get outside and hike one of the best hikes in North Carolina! When you get outside and explore the wilderness, you are rejuvenated and experience a combination of joy and peace. Sometimes it can be daunting to figure out where to hike. But don't worry! There's no need to search for the "best spring hikes near me." We've put together a list of 10 easy hikes in North Carolina that virtually anyone can conquer. Take a look below and then make plans to get outside and play!
1. Triple Falls Trail - near Cedar Mountain
Take this 2.3-mile loop trail in Dupont State Forest for a mere 0.3 miles before you reach the staggered triple falls. The trail is well marked and easy to follow. From the parking lot, head through the bridge and then look for signs. Check out the parking lot and trailhead, then plan your next visit. Such a short but rewarding trail makes this one of the most kid-friendly hikes around North Carolina.
2. Max Patch Trail - near Hot Springs
This nice little 1.5-mile loop trail is a sweet hike to a bald patch on top of a hill dishing up panoramic views of North Carolina. It's a great hike for everyone, even beginners — but it is all uphill at the beginning. From the parking area, take the trail up the mountain and keep climbing. The Appalachian Trail intersects the Max Patch Trail, increasing your chances of meeting through-hikers on your own journey to Max Patch.
3. Deep Creek Loop Trail - near Bryson City
Hike under a canopy of trees on a moderately trafficked five-mile loop trail that some beginner hikers may find a bit challenging simply due to the length. Others consider it a relatively easy and super enjoyable trek with a variety of features including waterfalls and bridges. Learn more about one of the most scenic hikes in North Carolina, then pencil in your next visit to see if you agree that it is one of the best hikes in NC.
4. Piedmont Trail - Greensboro
This lakeside trail is a wonderful retreat where you can easily opt to do all of the 5.3 miles out and back, or just a section, and then turn back to your starting point. Enjoy picturesque views of Lake Brandt as you meander along the flat terrain. Check out this scenic photo of Lake Brandt, then go take your own photos on this hike!
5. Craggy Pinnacle Trail - near Barnardsville
A nice and easy trek on this upward bound trail takes you to not one, but two overlook options. Head to the upper overlook for the best view, then on the way back down, check out the lower overlook too. The trail is 0.9 miles out and back, and is a super easy climb from the parking area. You'll find the trailhead and parking area at milepost 364.1 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. This is one of the best hikes in North Carolina, so start planning your visit today!
6. Old Field Bluff Trail - Chapel Hill
The Johnston Mill Nature Preserve has a few trails that intertwine, making it a great place to explore. Take the Old Field Bluff Trail as a starting point, and then branch off on one of the other well-marked trails to explore the beautiful preserve further. This is one of the most historic hikes in North Carolina, so go check it out!
7. Cascades Trail - near West Jefferson
Cascades Trail is a short and sweet hike that will leave you with plenty of time to have a picnic or just relax and enjoy the big payoff at the end: a cascading waterfall that's straight out of a fairy tale. The hike is less than a mile in loop format and features some lovely climbs on rustic steps made of wood and stone. This trail is perfect for the whole family and definitely photo-worthy!
8. Mouse Creek Falls via Big Creek Trail - near Waynesville
If you love meeting new people while hiking, then this will be an excellent opportunity! This 5.7-mile out-and-back trail is a favorite, with two gorgeous waterfalls waiting to be discovered. At the 1.5-mile mark, you'll be thrilled by the waterfall called Midnight Hole. Continue on to the 2.0-mile mark to reach the enchanting waterfall known as Mouse Creek Falls. Find the parking area, then pay this fantastic hike a visit.
9. Pink Beds Trail - near Brevard
This may be the flattest trail around, but it is six miles long, so eat your Wheaties the night before! The hike features a variety of terrain including some boardwalks, dirt paths, and bridges. Avoid going too soon after a rainy period or you could be ankle-deep in the mud. Learn more about Pink Beds Trail and then spend the weekend exploring the area.
10. Cape Fear River Trail - Fayetteville
Aptly named, the Cape Fear River Trail follows the river with the same name. It winds for 5.5 miles over mostly paved or hard surfaces, making it a picture-perfect walking path as well as a hiking trail and jogging path. It's one of the best easy hikes in North Carolina, so bring the whole family when you visit.
Clingmans Dome in North Carolina and Tennessee is an incredible scenic viewpoint of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Learn more in this video from OnlyInYourState:
It doesn't matter if you're a beginner or a pro, these spring hikes in North Carolina are perfect for trekkers at all skill levels! What are some of the trails on your list? Share a few with us in the comments.
For more outdoor fun in North Carolina, check out the one place in the Tarheel State that offers the ultimate outdoor experience.
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/north-carolina/dupont-state-recreational-forest-nc/
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