NC Hiking and Biking

You will find a wide variety of outdoor activities to entertain you in the summer months in the High Country. Hiking is one of our more popular activities. We’ve put together a list of some of the more popular trails in the area:

Sugar Mountain Hiking Trails:
There are hiking trails that interweave throughout the Village of Sugar Mountain. Trail access is free from May through October during daylight hours. Trail maps are located in a black marked mailbox at the base of the Flying Mile slope. Trails are constantly being maintained, so please be cautious. Also keep in mind that weather as well as other variables can change the condition of any trail.

Beech Mountain Hiking Trails:
Starting in April every year until the first part of October, you can go on guided group hikes on Beech Mountain. All hikes are led by Town Parks and Recreation staff and sponsored by the Beech Mountain Parks and Recreation Department who are familiar with “flora and fauna” unique to Beech Mountain. You will meet at the trail head prior to 9 a.m. for a 9 o’clock departure. No dogs are allowed because they may scare away wildlife that may be observed while on your hike. For more information, please call the Buckeye Recreation Center at 828-387-3003. You can also hike on your own. Beech Mountain maps can be picked up at the Visitors Center, Fred’s General Mercantile or the Buckeye Recreation Center for $.50. The Beech Mountain trails are as follows:

Buckeye Lake Trail:

  • It is the trail head for several hiking trails on Beech Mountain. Buckeye Gap Loop is a 5-mile easy to moderate trail. For more details, click on the link on the right side of the page.
  • Lake Coffey Course: A scenic 1/4 mile paved handicap accessible trail that wraps around the lake. For more details, click on the link on the right side of the page.
  • Upper & Lower Pond Creek Trail: An easy to moderate 2-mile trail with a few small waterfalls at the lower end of the trail.
  • Grassy Gap Creek Trail: An easy to moderate 1.2-mile trail.
  • Falls Trail/Wild Iris: This is a wooded easy to moderately strenuous 3.2 mile trail, with waterfalls.
  • Smoketree Trail: An easy to moderate 2 mile trail.
  • Westerly Hills Trail: A moderately strenuous 4.5 mile trail.

The Appalachian Trail:
The Appalachian Trail follows the Appalachian Mountain range from Maine to Georgia for over 200 miles through the Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests. Eighty-eight miles of the Appalachian Trail pass through North Carolina with an elevation ranging between 2,000 and 5,000 feet. The best time to hike the trail is from mid-May through October. The trail is open to foot travel only and boasts a chain of shelters spaced 8 to 12 miles apart. The Appalachian Trail follows segments of mountain ranges from Damascus Virginia, through the Cherokee National Forest to the North Carolina-Tennessee state line. Here, in the Roan Mountain area, you will find the highest mountains along the Trail, some above 6,000 feet. Along the Appalachian Trail, hikers discover the Roan Highlands, well known for their Rhododendron Gardens and the panoramic views of the open grassy balds (blunt summits covered by a thick layer of native grass). The Appalachian Trail then continues south along the state line and through the Pisgah National Forest. The trail continues through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is important for hikers to remember that permits are required for overnight stays in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and that reservations are required to use the shelters.

In Eastern Tennessee, the Appalachian Trail skirts the western edge of Watauga Lake and actually crosses the top of the Watauga Dam, giving hikers the unique view from the Dam and the chance to see the exposed back of the Dam. The Dam is made of rock and earth and, in 1948, was the highest dam of that type in the world. There are several points in the Watauga Lake area to enter the Appalachian Trail for day hikes. The Trail passes through Shook Branch Recreation Area at the western end of the lake. Markers state that it is approximately 5 miles from Shook Branch to the Watauga Dam. The views from the Appalachian Trail around Watauga Lake are exceptional and to walk across the Watauga Dam and learn more of its construction is a unique opportunity even among Appalachian Trail experiences. The Cherokee National Forest surrounds Watauga Lake, where you will find bubbling brooks, hiking trails, waterfalls and secret spots just waiting to be discovered. For more information, call 423-476-9700.

The Grandfather Trail:
The Grandfather Trail at Grandfather Mountain is an upper mountain ridge trail. It offers hikers a wide variety of vistas, from forests of spruce and fir to rock walls, pinnacles and open spaces with views of mountains in every direction. The trail follows the crest of Grandfather Mountain from the Hiker’s Parking area to Calloway Peak, 2.4 miles away. The pace should be cautious as there are places where progress is hand over hand. At some very steep sections, hikers use in-place cables and ladders. For the less adventurous, there is an alternative route up the McRae peak by way of the Underwood Trail.

The Profile Trail:
The Profile Trail is also located on Grandfather Mountain. This Trail begins as a scenic stroll through seasonal wildflowers, crosses the Watauga River and then travels through rhododendron thickets and under a hardwood canopy. The upper sections (which begin around Foscoe View) can get noticeably steeper, but there are frequently spaced benches for rest stops. This trail offers a view of the “Grandfather” profile (look closely to see the outline of Grandfather asleep on his back!) The path becomes a demanding trail a little over two and half miles in. After a climb of 0.3 miles, the Profile Trail joins the Grandfather Trail. A permit is required to hike this trail. For more details, click on the link on the right side of the page.

Linville Falls Trail:
Linville Falls is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway. There are trails leading to views of both the upper and lower falls. The trails are open year round from dawn to dusk with no fee. The falls are located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, between where US 221 and NC 181 intersect the Parkway. The Linville Falls trail is mile long and joins the Park Service’s trail system.

There are two main hiking trails that lead to views of the falls. Both trails begin at the Linville Falls Visitor Center and range in difficulty from moderate to strenuous. The Erwins View Trail is a moderate round trip walk of 1.6 miles, with four different overlooks of the area. For more details, click on the link on the right side of the page.

The trails to Linville Gorge and to Plunge Basin begin at the visitor center and fork approximately 0.2 miles from the center. The right fork leads to the Plunge Basin Overlook which offers views of the lower falls. The Linville Gorge trail winds down through the rock cliffs to the bottom of the falls. Both of these trails are strenuous and you should remember that swimming and climbing on the rocks are prohibited for safety reasons.

Linville Gorge Wilderness Area:
The Linville Gorge Wilderness Area is located in the Western North Carolina Mountains southeast of Boone. A part of the Pisgah National Forest, Linville Gorge is renowned for its 10,975 acres of rugged terrain, steep trails, dense forests and impressive rock cliffs. Formed by the Linville River with Jonas Ridge on the east and Linville Mountain on the west, Linville Gorge averages a 1,400 foot drop from rim to river. The distinctive rock formations located on Jonas Ridge include Sitting Bear, Hawksbill, Table Rock, and the Chimneys entice rock climbers from around the world. Elevations range from 1,300 feet on the Linville River to 4,120 feet on Gingercake Mountain. Hunting and fishing in the gorge require permits. For more details, click on the link on the right side of the page.

Elk River Falls:
Elk River Falls is a short waterfall hike, tucked into an isolated tract of the Pisgah National Forest near the Tennessee border. This trail is a 0.5-mile round-trip walk. The parking lot is lined with grills and picnic tables (no camping), and a scenic, fishable river flows by. To get to the falls from Banner Elk, follow NC 194 to the intersection with 19E. Turn right and travel approximately 2 miles to SR 1308. Follow the signs to Elk River Road on your right. The parking area will be approximately 5 miles ahead. (Note that the road turns from a two lane paved road to a one lane dirt road.) The trail to the falls is clearly marked and a very easy walk; however, the climb down to the pool at the bottom is moderately steep. Swimming is permitted in the pool.

Roan Mountain State Park:
There are 2,006 acres of forest at the base of Roan Mountain. The Park offers hiking, trout fishing, tennis, swimming, educational programs and mountain music concerts. The Appalachian Trail and famous Rhododendron Gardens of Roan Mountain are nearby at Carver’s Gap, a short 8-mile drive from the park. The park has a naturalist on hand year round to provide programs for visitors and special groups. There are approximately 12 miles of hiking trails in the park and 2- miles of biking trails. The trails range in difficulty from easy to strenuous. At Carver’s Gap, you can access the Appalachian Trail, Rhododendron’s Gardens Trail, Roan High Bluff Trail and Hack Line Road Trail. Be sure to wear good walking shoes and dress appropriately (preferably in layers). Also, carry along with you a pocket knife, matches, a flashlight, a compass or trail map, and a whistle. One or more of these items could be very helpful to you if an emergency arose along the course of the hike. It would also be a good idea to bring along some extra clothes, socks and food to eat on the trails as well. For more details, click on the link on the right side of the page.

Hiking in the High Country is a great way to spend time with the family while seeing beautiful scenery and getting some great exercise. Become one with nature and hike the High Country!

Nearby Walks:

Tate Evans Park (Banner Elk Town Park):
Located in Banner Elk behind the Bank of America and the Banner Elk Town Hall off Highway 194, this easy 1/4 mile walk has a fenced-in dog play area, a children’s playground, beautiful stream and mountain scenery. Also, it has beautiful gardens and benches for your enjoyment. For more details, click on the link on the right side of the page.

Newland Town Park:
This town park features a playground and a .8 mile walking track. The park is located on Beech Street in downtown Newland. For more information, call 828-733-2023.

Riverwalk Park:
This recently developed park in Newland with arched bridges takes people along a rambling stream in downtown Newland. The park is located beside the Avery County administration building.

Valle Crucis Community Park:
Behind the Mast General Store Annex in Valle Crucis, this beautiful park offers picnic tables, two picnic pavilions, a paved walking trail along the Watauga River, a fish pond, children’s playground and space for sports activities. For more information or to reserve a picnic shelter, call 828-963-9239. And, for more details, click on the link on the right side of the page.

Foscoe Community Park:
Set along the Watauga River in the Foscoe community between Boone and Banner Elk, this little gem is tucked away behind the Grandfather Trout Ponds off Highway 105. Open during daylight hours, the park has a bandstand, sheltered picnic area, basketball court, river walk and hiking trails.

Brookshire Park:
Brookshire Park features large grass playing fields surrounded by a paved walking track that’s just over four-tenths of a mile long, a covered picnic shelter with two grills, and restrooms. The lighted fields can be used for several games or practices at once, depending on the sport and age group. The park is located along the New River near the country industrial park on Brookshire Road in Boone. For more information, call 828-264-9511.

Howard’s Knob Park:
This park, that offers one of the best views of downtown Boone, is perched atop the proud peak overlooking the town. The park is open daily from dusk to dawn during the summer, and features a picnic shelter, numerous picnic tables, and several short trails and overlooks. From King Street in Boone, turn on to Cherry Street, and follow the signs to the top. For more information, call 828-264-9511.

Lee & Vivian Reynolds Greenway Trail:
Located off of State Farm Road, in Boone (near the Watauga County Parks & Recreation complex), this paved trail is 3.0 miles long and is great for walking or jogging. Other hiking trails wander off of its paved areas near the second of the Greenway’s three bridges. Call 828-264-9511 for more information.

Broyhill Park:
Located in downtown Blowing Rock, this popular, scenic park features an easy .25 mile paved walkway which winds around a pond. A covered gazebo and benches are scattered throughout the park. For more information, call 828-295-5222.

Annie Cannon Meditation Gardens:
Located in downtown Blowing Rock at the entrance to Glen Burney Trail, this small, beautiful park offers a bench-lined walkway which meanders throughout the neatly landscaped gardens. For more information, call 828-295-5222.

Glen Burney Trail:
Located in Blowing Rock, this moderately difficult (steep) trail is 1.5 miles, descending into the town’s Glen Burney Gorge with three scenic waterfalls. You can stop by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce for more detailed information.

Blue Ridge Parkway Hiking Trails:
There are many great hiking trails located all along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Some of the most popular are the Moses H. Cone Carriage Trails (Milepost 294.0), the Julian Price Memorial Park (Milepost 295.0), the Boone Fork Loop Trail (Milepost 296.5), and the Tanawha Trail (Milepost 305.5).

Click here for chart of all the Blue Ridge Parkway Hiking Trails by Milepost

The High Country has a hiking club called the Chargers & Rechargers. It is an informal loose-knit group of hiking enthusiasts in the western and northwestern mountains of North Carolina. The Club schedules hikes year round in the surrounding areas in locales such as Linville Gorge, the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Appalachian Trail, Roan Mountain (Tennessee), and the Virginia Creeper Trail (Virginia). Most hikes are held on Saturday and Wednesday and last four to five hours. Hikes range in difficulty from easy to strenuous. These hikes are a great way to experience the scenic beauty and meet new friends while enjoying the outdoors. Both Club members and nonmembers are welcome on their hikes. For more information, call Frank Young at or email him at pictureman@skybest.com.

Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is fast becoming one of the most popular activities in the High Country. There are several bike races and biking events that are held in the area. If you are visiting us in the spring, summer or fall, check out our Calendar of Events to see if a biking race or event is scheduled during your stay.

There are several trails to ride in and around Banner Elk:

Beech Mountain NC Biking Trails:
Beech Mountain has 51 miles of biking routes. Lance Armstrong covered many, if not all, of them during his road to recovery. There are climbs of 1,400 feet in only 3-1/2 miles, offering challenging rides for even the most advanced cyclists as well as scenic routes for those who just want to cruise and enjoy the scenery. In May, Beech Mountain holds the BEST WEEKEND Cycling Time Trial where you can actually do the ride that inspired Lance Armstrong. Beech Mountain invites you to participate in this inaugural event of fun for the entire family.

Scheduled guided group rides are on the third Saturday of the month, May through October. The rides are led by Beech Mountain’s own Gil Adams, Daniel Scagnelli and Rory Ellington. Rides will leave from the Beech Mountain Visitors Center, next to the Town Hall, at 10:30 a.m. and will return to the start at end of the ride. A Bike Beech Mountain Guide is available by calling the Chamber of Commerce at 828-387-9238. For more information and routes of each ride, call the Beech Mountain Recreation Center at 828-387-3003.

Also, the Beech Mountain Bike Club has developed 11 rugged trails with over 40 miles of adventure for your riding enjoyment. Their club members and sponsors are devoted to developing and keeping their trails maintained for the use of all mountain bikers.

Sugar Mountain NC Biking Trails:
There are biking trails that interweave throughout the Village of Sugar Mountain. Trail access is free from May through October during daylight hours. Trail maps are located in a black marked mailbox at the base of the Flying Mile slope. Trails are constantly being maintained so please be cautious. Also keep in mind that weather and other variables can change the condition of any trail. While riding a bike within the Village limits, helmets are required. Sugar Mountain Resort provides a lift service to mountain bikers. You can bring your bike and ride the lift up and practice your downhill skills. The Showdown at Sugar Mountain is a NORBA National Championship Event that showcases both professionals and also has some amateur events. This event is usually very big with participants coming from all 50 states, and usually takes place sometime in May.

Blowing Rock NC Mountain Biking Trails:
The Benson Hollow Trail, located in Blowing Rock, is considered the 2nd “Best Mountain Biking Trail in North Carolina.” Other trails like 18-mile ride and Buckeye Trail are very close to Boone and Blowing Rock and will also provide you with a great biking experience.

Linville NC Mountain Biking:
Grandfather Mountain’s “The Grizzly Bike Ride” is an annual event in July. The Grizzly bicycle ride is endorsed by the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games and is taking place between two running events- The Bear Road Race & The Grandfather Mountain Marathon. The Grizzly will begin and end on the track at Grandfather Mountain. There will be a “neutral start” to the bottom of Grandfather Mountain, where the riders will then cycle through Avery County. The Grizzly is a beautiful and challenging route with 7000 feet of climbing in 65 miles, including 2 miles of dirt road up the backside of Beech Mountain. 8:00am Start & 3:00pm Shutdown, you need to be able to finish in 7 hours. Both you and your bike should be in great shape to complete the Grizzly!! For more information, please call 828-263-5207.

In September, you can test your abilities in The Bridge to Bridge 21st Riding, a grueling course that starts at the Lenoir Mall and ends at the top of Grandfather Mountain.

In other near-by communities, you have the following races and rides:

Wilkesboro, NC Mountain Biking:
The annual BURN 24 Challenge Mtn. Bike Endurance Relay Race is the premier endurance mountain bike race that takes place in May. This event is hosted by the Brushy Mountain Cyclists Club. There is a race class for everyone. Whether you’re super fit and want to “show your stuff” or you just want to test yourself and your personal fitness, this race is for you. This event is hosted by the Brushy Mountain Cyclists Club. Also in May at the YMCA Express at West Park Bike Shop in North Wilkesboro is the R.A.W. (Ride Around Wilkes). Grueling climbs, thrilling descents and beautiful back roads await you as the Brushy Mountain Cyclists Club presents this annual road cycling event. It includes 25, 40 and 65 mile routes through the foothills of Northwest North Carolina. The 40 and 65 mile routes include challenging climbs through the Brushy Mountains south of Wilkesboro. With three routes of varying length and difficulty, there’s a ride just right for you. In October at the Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir in Wilkesboro is the Dark Mountain Challenge Endurance Festival. This is a 2-day event that includes the following: 1st day: DARK MTN PADDLING TRIATHLON: 3+ mile Lake Paddle, 4+ mile (OVT) Run, and 7+ mile (DMT)single track mountain biking and second day: DARK MTN 0FF- ROAD DUATHLON: 4+ Run (OVT), 14+ Mtn. Bike (DMT), 2+ RUN. For more information on these and other events, email bmcc@bmcc.us.

Traphill, NC Mountain Biking:
Traphill, NC Mountain Biking is the annual Hurt, Pain and Agony ride that takes place in July. This ride benefits the American Cancer Society. All proceeds go directly to the ACS. The route takes you through northern Wilkes County, Alleghany County and part of Virginia as well. The ride starts with a six-mile climb and finishes with a six-mile descent. Check out our Calendar of Events for these as well as other biking events listed in this section.

Mountains to the Coast:
In the Spring and in the Fall, the Cycle North Carolina “Mountains to the Coast” bike rides take place. As the ride has been described, it is a “fully supported cross-state recreational bike tour of the Tar Heel state. Formed in 1999, Cycle North Carolina is designed to promote physical fitness and health, and provide economic impact and publicity to rural communities across the state while showcasing the state’s beauty, scenic attractions and cultural diversity.” Check out our Calendar of Events for the current year dates. Also, for more information or to register, you can email them at cyclenc@ncsports.org.

Blue Ridge Parkway:
The Blue Ridge Parkway provides bicyclists 470 miles of breathtakingly scenic travel across Virginia and North Carolina. Elevations vary from 600 to 6,000 feet, and the road includes a variety of ever-changing weather conditions, regardless of season. If you are up for a challenge or two, then check out some of the bike races and events that happen each year in the High Country area. A popular one that usually draws large crowds and racers is the Blood, Sweat and Gears Challenge. This event and race, taking place in June and is especially grueling on riders, considering one part of the route includes a 21 mile portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway, a climb over a 4,500 gap on Snake Mountain, and another 10 miles of “flat” areas near Deep Gap. The race is a century race, basically a 100 mile loop that begins and ends in Valle Crucis, North Carolina.

The Parkway was designed as a scenic leisure road for motorists. Therefore, bicyclists should be prepared for significant distances between developed areas and services that vary by season.

Bicycling Regulations:

  • Bicycle riders must comply with all applicable state and federal motor vehicle regulations.
  • Bicycles may be ridden only on paved road surfaces and parking areas. Bicycles, including mountain bikes, may not be ridden on trails or walkways.
  • The bicycle operator must exhibit a white light or reflector visible at least 500 feet to the front and a red light or reflector visible at least 200 feet to the rear during periods of low visibility, between the hours of sunset and sunrise, or while traveling through a tunnel.
  • Bicycles must be ridden single file except when passing or turning left and well to the right-hand side of the road.
  • Bicycle speed must be reasonable for control with regard to traffic, weather, and road and light conditions.
  • Other Suggestions:
  • Wear a bicycle helmet.
  • Be sure your bicycle is in good operating condition. Carry a spare tube and tools for minor repairs.
  • Wear high visibility clothing. It sets you apart from the scenery and makes you more visible to motorists.
  • Avoid the Parkway during periods of low visibility. Fog and rain are very unpredictable.
  • Please be cautious when riding through tunnels. Be sure your bicycle is equipped with the proper lights or reflectors. There are 26 tunnels in North Carolina and 1 tunnel in Virginia.
  • Temperatures vary greatly along the Parkway due to different elevations. Layer your clothing.
  • Drinking water is available at all picnic areas, campgrounds, and visitor centers.
  • Make an honest evaluation of your abilities before beginning a bicycle trip on the Parkway. In some sections, you will climb as much as 1,100 feet in 3.4 miles.
  • When cycling in a group, adjust your spacing to allow motor vehicles to pass safely.

Bike Rental:
If you don’t have your own bike, you can drive to Boone Bike & Touring located in Boone at 899 Blowing Rock Road (Highway 321). Boone Bike and Touring can provide you with the right equipment for your bike-riding adventure. They rent 2009 Specialized Allez Elite Road Bikes 10-speed, compact cranks, with full 105 components and 2009 Trek Fuel EX Full-Suspension Mountain Bikes. For more information at 828-262-5750 or email them at shaw@boonebike.com. Please call in advance for reservations!

Butler, TN Mountain Biking:
The Watauga Lake Triathlon is an annual event that takes place in September. The event includes a 1,000 meter swim in Watauga Lake. It is a 35 kilometer hilly bike ride, as well as a challenging 8 kilometer run. This low-key festive event has overall men/women cash prizes, awards and a post-race barbecue.

Damascus, VA Mountain Biking:
A little more than an hour away, you can drive over to Damascus, Virginia, for a full day of leisurely biking on the Virginia Creeper Trail. You can take a picnic or eat lunch in one of the restaurants along the route. Nestled in the rugged and scenic Southwest Blue Ridge Highlands of Virginia is the small town of Damascus, Virginia. It has been designated a “Trail Town USA” by the American Hiking Society, that ranks as the top trail communities throughout the country. In addition to hiking, fishing, and other outdoor opportunities, Damascus has become the vacation destination of thousands of mountain bikers and road bikers searching for a great outdoor vacation. The cascading trout streams and rivers, the high-country meadows and the densely forested ridges create an exceptionally beautiful backdrop for your mountain-biking experience. Come see why Damascus has long been known as the “friendliest town on the Appalachian Trail.”

Starting in Abingdon, the 34-mile Virginia Creeper Trail, a dirt and asphalt journey takes you through Damascus and Whitetop, just above the North Carolina border. The trail’s dense forests, sleepy hills, long trestles, pockets of pastureland, grazing cattle and inviting communities will make for a memorable and photogenic ride. You can expect a corridor well-outfitted with amenities, making it a wonderful relaxing downhill ride.

The town has a large selection of places to rent bikes. They also offer shuttle service. Here are just a few:

  • Adventure Damascus Bicycles, 128 W. Laurel Avenue, Damascus, VA (Toll-Free 888-595-2453)
  • Blue Blaze Bike & Shuttle, 226 W. Laurel Avenue, Damascus, VA (Toll-Free 800-475-5095)
  • The Bike Station, 501 E. 3rd Street (Main Street), Damascus, VA (Toll-Free 866-475-3629)
  • JC’s Outdoors (Formerly the Ole Barn), 425 Douglas Drive, Damascus, VA (Toll-Free 866-475-5727)
  • Virginia Creeper Trail Bike Shop, 201 Pecan Street, Abingdon, VA (Toll-Free 888-245-3648)