Find 5 Bucket-List-Level Views in North Carolina Without Needing to Be an Expert Hiker

Despite what you might think, you don't need to be an expert hiker to find yourself in front of a fabulous view. There are plenty of bucket list views in North Carolina that don't require eight-hour treks and endless elevation gains. These five bucket-list-level views in North Carolina are perfect for anyone looking to spend more time outdoors without the need for a serious backpacking adventure.

Kuwohi Observation Tower Trail

Starting off strong with what I think is the ultimate bucket list view in North Carolina, the Kuwohi Observation Trail (formally known as Clingman’s Dome) is one of the highest points along the Appalachian Trail. As one of the most popular trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, I’d suggest arriving early in the morning and catching a sunrise from up here. The 1.3-mile trail is easy for most, but you’ll want to bring a jacket since it gets cold at the highest peak!

Hanging Rock Trail

Clocking in at 3.6 miles with an elevation gain of 640 feet, you don’t need to be an expert hiker to catch the epic view that comes with this trail. It’s a perfect trail for beginner hikers looking to challenge themselves. The trail gradually ascends until you reach the iconic Hanging Rock viewpoint. The massive quartzite cliff adds to the landscape and makes for some beautiful photos with the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 

Bearwallow Mountain Trail

You’ll find the Bearwallow Mountain Trail in Gerton, North Carolina. This is a scenic two-mile loop trail that comes with a 575-foot elevation gain. This is one of those “old school” trails where the directions will have you scratching your head, but trust them. To start the trail, head to the right of an old, rusty gate. From here, you’ll hike through the forest and make your way through several switchbacks as you climb up the trail. This trail does have some sharp switchbacks and a few sets of rock stairs, but overall, it's rated as moderate. The views of the grassy bald at the mountaintop meadow are worth it!

Linville Falls Overlook Trail

Lineville Falls is one of those bucket list views in North Carolina that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime. The out-and-back trail hovers right around two miles and has an elevation gain of 355 feet. The trail is well-maintained, and you get some stunning views of the waterfalls and the gorge. I think this one is a beauty year-round, but this view in the fall is one you’ll never forget. 

Fryingpan Mountain Lookout Tower

Despite the funny name, this is one of my favorite trails in North Carolina. It’s an easy 1.5-mile hike with a 350 elevation gain that’s located off of Forest Service Road 450 in the Pisgah National Forest. The mountain itself is located at 5,340 feet above sea level, so you’ll already be in a great spot for a killer view, but if you really want a bucket list-worthy view, climb the stairs of the fire tower. 

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