At approximately 2,200 feet tall, North Carolina’s Hibriten Mountain isn’t the tallest peak in the state, but its location at the western end of the Brushy Mountains and near the city of Lenoir makes it a prominent feature of the landscape. Known for the tower on top as well as the lights that turn on and sparkle through the holiday season, Hibriten Mountain in North Carolina is not only part of the landscape but also part of the community.

Most people who head to the top of Hibriten do so for the view.
Wikipedia/Ken Thomas - KenThomas.us
From the very top, you can see for miles and miles, and in the distance are more mountain ranges.
In 1982, a local hang gliding club built a launch ramp on top of Hibriten. It's still in place and a popular spot to sit for a moment and take in the beautiful scenery.
Mike Hirsch/AllTrails
But what most people (outside of locals, perhaps) don't know about Hibriten Mountain is that if you stray from the road that leads to the top, you'll encounter a path that winds around to the north side of the mountain.
Denise Hark/AllTrails

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It can be a daunting task to discover the trailhead (watch the video below for clues), but once you do, getting to the boulder field on the north side of the mountain is only a moderate hike and a short distance.
Olivia Carraway/Google
The entrance to Hibriten Mountain Cave is located in plain sight along the trail.
Google Maps/matt miller
Look for a huge tree that's grown on top of the boulders over the cave's entrance. Remember to bring a flashlight!
Once inside the cave, most people are able to stand up, at least partially.
Google Maps/Ashley Norton
The cave is reportedly 120 feet long and has three distinct rooms. At least one carving on the wall dates back to the early 1900s. Local historians believe the cave was used during the War Between the States. It was reportedly a hideaway for Confederate soldiers.
Most adults find it easy to access the first two rooms; however, the third requires slipping through a very small opening.
Benjamin Brittain/AllTrails
If you explore the cave, then please leave no trace. Also, expect to encounter (or startle) some bats, because you will likely encounter at least a few napping along the ceiling. (You may want to avoid standing all the way up!)

Two adventurous explorers hiked into the cave in 2012 and captured the video below from YouTube user david0126. At the beginning of the video, they give some clues as to just where the Hibriten Mountain Cave trailhead can be found along the road to the top of Hibriten. Take a peek:

Have you been to Hibriten Mountain in North Carolina? Let us know about your experiences in the comments. Be sure to check out the other amazing trails in the Brushy Mountains on AllTrails.

North Carolina’s many caves are fascinating to explore. Head to this cave to discover a place where a man known as “America’s Pioneer” sought shelter from time to time.

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More to Explore

Amazing Attractions In North Carolina

William Suphan | July 22, 2023

What are the coolest day trip destinations in North Carolina?

The coolest day trip destinations in North Carolina include:

  • Moore Cove Falls. This short trail leads to a 50-foot waterfall that continues to cascade down stone ledges. 
  • The Fairy Trail. Take this beautiful hike at Bullington Gardens where you’ll see scenes of fairy homes, tea settings, and little gardens.
  • Waterfall Scenic Byway. If you want a really scenic drive, especially during autumn, this 98-mile byway has gorgeous views.
  • McGalliard Falls. Located near Valdese, this is the ideal place to go swimming at the bottom of a waterfall.

 

Learn more about the coolest day trip destinations in North Carolina. 

What are the best farmer’s markets in North Carolina?

The best farmer’s markets in North Carolina include:

  • Charlotte Regional Farmer’s Market. This is one of the biggest farmer’s markets in the state and has fresh local produce, meat, and dairy.
  • NoDa Farmer’s Market. This community market has flowers, fresh fruits and vegetables, and various local artisan goods.
  • Cotswold Farmer’s Market. This is not just a market but a local hangout where residents gather to shop, mingle, and enjoy live music. 
  • King’s Drive Farmer’s Market. This is a smaller market, but the fresh produce is some of the best you’ll find in the state.

 

Learn more about the best farmer’s markets in North Carolina.  

What are the best nature spots in North Carolina? 

The best nature spots in North Carolina include:

  • Crabtree Falls. This hike leads to a 70-foot waterfall surrounded by lush, green forests.
  • Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest. This is one of the most vast old-growth forests in America with towering trees and a ton of stunning green nature.
  • McGalliard Falls Park. There are natural rock water slides here as well as a historic, old-fashioned mill.
  • Sand Dollar Island. Ride on a ferry to this little Island and collect tons of sand dollars along the scenic shores.

 

Learn more about the best nature spots in North Carolina. 

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Hibriten Mountain, North Carolina 28645, USA