Hiking
in the High Country
MILEPOST
217.5 Cumberland Knob Trail
Great for stretching your legs after a long car ride around the Blue Ridge Parkway. Hike, picnic or just enjoy the thousand-acre park where Parkway construction began. Site of the northernmost visitor center
HED: Hiking the High Country
With awe-inspiring scenery, a challenging terrain and an abundant wildlife, hiking is one of the best ways to take in all that is the High Country. Whether you’re taking the kids out for a bit of fresh air and an escape into nature or getting in touch with your inner thrill-seeker, there are hiking trails for visitors of all levels. Here are some top trails in a range of lengths and difficulties—all located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway.
MILEPOST
217.5 Cumberland Knob Trail
Great for stretching your legs after a long car ride around the Blue Ridge Parkway. Hike, picnic or just enjoy the thousand-acre park where Parkway construction began. Site of the northernmost visitor center in North Carolina. 0.5 mi.; Easy
238.5–244.7 Doughton Park
Site of the Brinegar Cabin, built in 1880 and inhabited until the 1930s. The restored cabin sits on 7,000 acres of land, with 30 miles of hiking trails. Popular activities include trout fishing, hiking and cross country skiing. Also a great place to spot wildlife. 30+ mi.; Varied Difficulty
271.9 The Cascades Trail
This turn-around trail will lead through some of the most scenic views in the High Country. Follow this easy-access trail to the beautiful Cascades waterfalls. 0.5 mi.; Moderate
293 Moses Cone Manor and Memorial Park
Tour the summer home of textile magnate Moses Cone, also known as the Denim King. Today, the manor is home to the Southern Highlands Craft Guild, with quality crafts and art for sale and on display. Many hiking and horse trails to explore.
295 Julian Price Park
Park for camping, fishing, hiking and more. The once retreat of an insurance executive also features an amphitheater, lake and grills. Take the Green Knob Trail to see wildflowers, deer and birds. 2.5 mi.; Easy
304.4 The Linn Cove Viaduct
The most photographed section on the Parkway and the last piece constructed, the Linn Cove Viaduct is known as an engineering marvel for its ability to wrap around the mountains. Check out the visitors’ center, and hike down for a view of the complicated yet scenic bridge. 0.16; Easy
306 Grandfather Mountain Overlook
Find the best views of the mountain here and see if you think the mountain resembles a hawk. (Its Cherokee name is “Tanawa,” meaning hawk.) Many trails of varied difficulty.
316.4 Linville Falls/Gorge Trails
A visitors’ center and trails that lead to the overlook for two falls and the gorge. The lower falls plunge 80 feet into Linville Gorge, the deepest gorge east of the Mississippi River. The rugged area is great for hiking, camping, climbing and more. Linville Falls Trail: 0.8 mi.; Moderate. Linville Gorge Trail: 0.5; Strenuous
339.5 Crabtree Falls Loop Trail
Marking the last stretch of the Parkway through the Blue Ridge Mountains, this hike is made for the more experienced hiker. Remember that while it may be a calm hike down, this loop will have you making the steep climb back uphill! 2.6 mi.; Strenuous