20 Popular North Carolina Hiking Trails

North Carolina's diverse landscape is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of hiking trails that showcase the state's natural beauty. While the national parks in North Carolina are renowned, the trails outside these parks present equally enchanting opportunities for adventure. Join us on a journey through some of the Tar Heel State's 20 most popular hiking trails, where mountain vistas, waterfalls, and lush forests await every hiker.

1. Hanging Rock State Park – Hanging Rock Trail

This 2.4-mile out-and-back trail leads hikers to the summit of Hanging Rock, offering panoramic views of the Sauratown Mountains and surrounding countryside. The well-marked path features a moderate ascent through hardwood forests, passing by intriguing rock formations. At the summit, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking vistas, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. 

2. Stone Mountain State Park – Stone Mountain Loop Trail

This 4.5-mile loop trail offers hikers a scenic journey around the base of the iconic granite dome, Stone Mountain. The well-maintained path meanders through dense forests, open meadows, and past cascading waterfalls. Along the way, hikers can explore the historic Hutchinson Homestead and enjoy picturesque views of the towering granite face.

3. South Mountains State Park – High Shoals Falls Loop Trail

A 2.7-mile loop that takes hikers along the Jacob Fork River to the stunning High Shoals Falls, where water plunges approximately 80 feet over a sheer rock face. The trail includes a series of boardwalks and stairs, allowing for close-up views of the waterfall and surrounding gorge. The combination of lush vegetation, rushing water, and impressive geology makes this trail a must-see. 

4. Crowders Mountain State Park – Crowders Trail to Rocktop Trail Loop

This 5.2-mile loop combines the Crowders and Rocktop trails, leading hikers to the summit of Crowders Mountain. The trail features rocky terrain, steep ascents, and rewarding panoramic views of the Piedmont region. Wildlife sightings are common, and the exposed cliffs offer a unique hiking experience. 

5. Pilot Mountain State Park – Little Pinnacle Overlook Trail

A short 0.1-mile trail that provides access to the Little Pinnacle Overlook, offering breathtaking views of the iconic Big Pinnacle and the surrounding landscape. Despite its brevity, the trail's elevation gain can be challenging, but the expansive vistas make the effort worthwhile. It's an excellent spot for photography and sunrise or sunset viewing.

6. Raven Rock State Park – Raven Rock Loop Trail

This 2.6-mile loop trail leads hikers through diverse forest ecosystems to the impressive Raven Rock, a 150-foot high and one-mile-long crystalline structure overlooking the Cape Fear River. The trail is well-marked and includes stairs leading down to the riverbank, offering different perspectives of the rock formation. Along the way, hikers can enjoy views of the river and surrounding woodlands.

7. Morrow Mountain State Park – Morrow Mountain Loop Trail

A 4.1-mile loop that ascends to the summit of Morrow Mountain, providing hikers with panoramic views of the Uwharrie Mountains and Lake Tillery. The trail passes through mature hardwood forests and is known for its spring wildflowers and fall foliage. The summit area offers picnic facilities, making it a great spot to rest and take in the scenery.

8. Lake Norman State Park – Lake Shore Trail

This 6.7-mile loop trail meanders along the shoreline of Lake Norman, offering serene water views and opportunities for wildlife observation. The relatively flat terrain makes it accessible for hikers of all skill levels, and the well-shaded path is ideal for warm days. Several access points to the lake provide spots for fishing or simply enjoying the view.

9. William B. Umstead State Park – Company Mill Loop Trail

A 5.8-mile loop that takes hikers through mixed hardwood forests and along Crabtree Creek, passing the historic site of the Company Mill. The trail features gentle elevation changes, making it suitable for most hikers. It's a peaceful retreat within proximity to urban areas, offering a chance to immerse oneself in nature.

10. Mount Mitchell State Park – Mount Mitchell Trail

This challenging 11.3-mile out-and-back trail leads hikers from the Black Mountain Campground to the summit of Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. The trail ascends over 3,600 feet through spruce-fir forests, offering glimpses of diverse flora and fauna. At the summit, hikers are rewarded with expansive views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. 

11. Chimney Rock State Park – Chimney Rock Trail

A 0.6-mile round-trip trail that includes a series of stairs and boardwalks leading to the iconic Chimney Rock, a 315-foot granite monolith. From the top, visitors are treated to panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. The trail also provides access to the Opera Box, a unique vantage point offering a different perspective of the rock and surrounding landscape.

12. Gorges State Park – Rainbow Falls, Turtleback Falls, and Drift Falls Trail

This 3.9-mile out-and-back trail takes hikers to three stunning waterfalls along the Horsepasture River. The well-marked path winds through lush forests, with moderate elevation changes. Each waterfall offers unique beauty, with Rainbow Falls being the most prominent, cascading over 150 feet into a deep pool. 

13. Elk Knob State Park – Summit Trail

A 3.8-mile out-and-back trail that ascends to the summit of Elk Knob, offering sweeping views of The Peak, Three Top, and Bluff mountains, as well as glimpses into Tennessee and Virginia. The trail is well-graded with switchbacks, making the climb manageable. In the spring and summer, wildflowers line the path

14. Merchant Millpond State Park – Lassiter Trail

The Lassiter Trail is a scenic 6-mile loop that takes hikers deep into the enchanting hardwood and cypress swamps of Merchants Millpond State Park. This serene trail offers a glimpse into an ancient wetland ecosystem, where towering bald cypress and tupelo trees draped in Spanish moss create a magical atmosphere. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot deer, river otters, and a variety of wading birds along North Carolina’s coastal wilderness.

15. Eno River State Park – Cox Mountain Trail

This 4.2-mile loop offers a diverse hiking experience through the rolling hills and riverbanks of Eno River State Park. The trail begins with a scenic suspension bridge crossing over the Eno River before ascending to Cox Mountain, providing hikers with a moderate challenge and rewarding forest views. 

16. DuPont State Forest – Triple Falls Trail

Open year round, The Triple Falls Trail in DuPont State Recreational Forest is a 1.5-mile hike that leads to the impressive Triple Falls, where water cascades over three tiers. The trail is moderate in difficulty, with some gentle climbs and a few rocky sections. It's a popular destination for photographers due to the dramatic waterfall views and the peaceful atmosphere.. 

17. Linville Gorge Wilderness Area – Linville Falls Overlook Trail

This 1.6-mile round trip trail leads to two excellent viewpoints, offering different perspectives of the falls. The trail is considered moderate in difficulty, with some steep and rocky sections, but the rewarding views of the falls cascading into the gorge make it well worth the effort. 

18. Grandfather Mountain State Park – Daniel Boone Scout Trail

This 4.6-mile trail (one-way) takes you through dense forests and rugged terrain, with significant elevation gain as you ascend towards Calloway Peak, which stands at 5,964 feet. The trail is steep and strenuous, with rocky sections, exposed ridges, and some scrambling required in places, making it best suited for experienced hikers. Once at the summit, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.

19. Pisgah National Forest - Moore Cove Falls

This family friendly 0.7-mile out-and-back trail takes you through a lush forest, with a gentle ascent leading to the Moore Cove Falls. The waterfall cascades about 50 feet and is unique because you can walk behind the falls, offering a cool and refreshing experience. The trail is relatively flat and suitable for all skill levels.

20. Jones Lake State Park – Jones Lake Trail/Bay Trail Loop

This moderate 3.5-mile loop takes you through a mix of wooded areas and along the shores of Jones Lake, offering beautiful views of the water and surrounding wetlands. The loop combines two smaller trails, the Jones Lake Trail and the Bay Trail, which wind through forested landscapes and provide opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the peaceful nature of the park. 

North Carolina's hiking trails weave a tapestry of diverse landscapes, from the coastal regions to the peaks of the Appalachian Mountains. Whether you're seeking waterfalls, panoramic vistas, or serene woodlands, the Tar Heel State has a trail for every nature lover.