Blue Ridge Hikes NC State Parks North Carolina South Carolina Travel Waterfalls

Top 30 Day Trips & Hikes From Charlotte

If you are here chances are you are on a search for the best hikes from Charlotte, North Carolina. We live just north of Charlotte and it is safe to say that we have done pretty much every single hike that is within couple of hours from here. Below we have created a list of some of our top hikes, adventure towns and and places to stop off for a snack, meal or drink.

Before we start here are several things to keep in mind prior to hitting the trail as well as must items to pack in your backpack:

  • Bottle of Water
  • Snacks
  • First Aid Kit
  • Bug Spray
  • Camera
  • Bear Spray
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Map or downloaded All Trails

Please make sure to take everything back with you as you are leaving the woods.

  • Do Not Litter
  • Do not go off the marked trail path
  • Do not disturb the flora and fauna in any way
  • If a bear is encountered on the trail please keep your distance

Now that we have cleared all of this let’s get to the point. Our list consists of hikes with views, hikes leading to a waterfalls and finally a few adventure towns with broader details on more things to do in and around there so you can spend an entire day at the location.

#1 CROWDERS MOUNTAIN STATE PARK

Crowders Mountain
View From The Top of Crowders Mountain

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 36 minutes

We are starting with this particular hike since it is the closest to Charlotte. There are several trails that you can choose from here but the most popular and the one that leads to the summit of the mountain is the Pinnacle Trail. 

LENGTH: 4.2 miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 2 Hours and 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

The trail begins right at the parking lot past the restrooms. Ample parking is available. You can do the trails two ways. You can turn right where the path splits and take the stairs up or follow the path and take the stairs on your way down. We personally prefer taking the stairs down as it is easier of a hike this way and not as strenuous on your knees. The views from the summit are spectacular however do keep your pets on a leash and kids near by as a drop from the boulders here would be deadly. If rock climbing is something that interests you, Crowders Mountain is a great spot to do that. More information on how to get a rock climbing permit and where to climb can be found on the link HERE.

#2 SOUTH MOUNTAINS STATE PARK

South Mountains State Park
South Mountains State Park

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 1 Hour and 15 Minutes

Next up is South Mountains and why we are choosing it as our number two is because of the proximity to Charlotte and the absolute gorgeousness of the park. This particular spot is a must if you live anywhere in the State of North Carolina and the ultimate day trip spot from Charlotte. There are about a dozen trails to choose from here. From views to waterfalls and everything in between, but the most popular trail in the State Park is the High Shoals Falls Loop Trail.

LENGTH: 2.4 miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hour and 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

This particular trail will lead you passed a handful of beautiful waterfalls up steep stairs and passed tall trees. We suggest you wear comfortable shoes as the trail gets slippery after rain and during the winter months. Recently the park cleared a new trail that connects to the High Shoals Falls Trail called Big Bear Falls and we highly recommend taking the turn and exploring it on your way up to the rest of the falls. If you are into camping this park is the ultimate place to pitch a tent and splash by the river or take on any of the hikes available in the park. For information on hours of operation, pricing and availability check the State Park link HERE.

If you have worked up an appetite after the hike there are a good amount of restaurants to choose from on your way back in the town of Lincolnton, NC. 

For a drink check out Woodmill Winery (they have the best sweet wine), Untapped Territory or BrickTree Brewery for a local brew. 

Brick Tree Brewing

BrickTree Brewing, Lincolnton NC
BrickTree Brewing, Lincolnton NC

#3 STONE MOUNTAIN STATE PARK

Stone Mountain State Park
Stone Mountain State Park

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 1 Hour and 30 Minutes

Our next hiking suggestion is Stone Mountain State Park. This spot is absolutely spectacular and just like the previous one offers ample hiking trail opportunities with one of the best summit views, waterfalls and so much more. There is not just one favorite trail here so we will tell you about our top three.

  • Stone Mountain Loop Trail

LENGTH: 4.5 miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 2 Hours and 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

This trail would take you from the parking lot to the summit, down the steep wooden stairs to the homestead and the profile of the Stone Mountain and finally to the falls if you choose to take right where the trails splits 0.3 miles into your trek. We suggest following the trail this way unless you are looking for more strenuous exercise in which case take left where the trail splits and head to the falls first. 

  • Wolf Rock Trail

LENGTH: 2.5 miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hour and 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

Why we love this trail is because of how little trafficked it is and the amazing views it offers both of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Stone Mountain profile. In order to take this trail park at the lower parking lot and follow the loop trail from there until you reach the fork where the trail splits. You will see the sign for the Wolf Rock Trail to your right. From this point follow the trail up the mountain before reaching the opening with the views of the Blue Ridge. On your way back from here you will see the opening with the view of Stone Mountain and pass by the old Homestead on your way back to the parking lot. If you choose to extend the hike take right once down the mountain and head to the falls. From there you can decide if you will like to take the loop back to the car or just walk pass the homestead and to the parking lot which would be the shorter option. 

  • Widows Creek Falls
Widows Creek Falls
Widows Creek Falls

LENGTH: 0.2 miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 15 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

This one is not really a hike, but more of a walk in the woods to a beautiful waterfall that doubles as a swimming hole in the summer. It is the ultimate beginners hike and the perfect spot to take the kids to on a hot day.

For things to do on your way back from Stone Mountain check out the Town of Elkin. You will not be disappointed by any of the restaurants in town and there are a ton of extremely good wineries to choose from in the area if you are looking to grab a glass of white or red.  We loved this area so much that we bought a vacation house and rent out this Elkin Airbnb cottage.  

#4 CARTER FALLS

Carter Falls
Carter Falls

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 1Hour and 15 Minutes

Carter Falls is a great beginners hike and one to bring the kids along to. It’s a short but scenic hike with two waterfalls and a handful of cascades. 

LENGTH: 1 Mile Roundtrip

TIME TO COMPLETE: 45 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

There are several ways to reach Carter Falls. You can park at the trailhead parking lot on Martyn Byrd Road and descend from there, begin at the Byrd’s Branch Campground across the street after grabbing a treat at their store and follow the path through the campsite before reaching the trailhead, extend the trek by starting at Grassy Creek Vineyard after a glass of delicious wine, passing through the Enchanted Forest, pass the Forest Bathing Trail and the Cascades Waterfall (most scenic and longest way) or taking the Issac’s Trailhead at 400 E Carter Road in Elkin, NC which would be the longest.

Note that to reach the base of the 50 foot Carter Falls you will have to use go down a steep path. There is a rope to hold on to on your way up and down which would be helpful for the little ones however do keep an eye on them and keep them close by. 

Although on other websites the falls are mentioned as a hidden swimming hole there are clear signs along the path warning against that. The site is an old power mill and metal items and remains are still present as you walk the woods so keep an eye on that. They are marked with orange tape and paint for easy spotting.

#5 PILOT MOUNTAIN STATE PARK

Pilot Mountain, NC
Pilot Mountain, NC

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 1 Hour and 40 Minutes

Pilot Mountain State Park is a must if you are looking for a variety of hiking trails or for an easy lookout that does not require extensive hiking. We have a blog post with a good amount of the trails we have done at the State Park which you can find HERE. Below we would love to share our top three trails that are a must of you are heading this way.

  •  The Grindstone Trail

LENGTH: 2.6 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hour and 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

This one is our favorite and although it is considered moderate for some, it might seem as strenuous. The trail begins at the Visitor Center and goes all the way up to the top of the mountain and the parking lot at the bottom of the Pinnacle. There is a sign right before the end of the trail that states that this trail feels as if you have climbed a ten story building ten times so take at as you will. 

  • Jomeokee Trail.

LENGTH: 0.9 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 45 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

This trail begins at the parking lot and follows the base of the Pinnacle. It is an easy but super pretty trek and it is the perfect hike for beginners and small kids. Beautiful views of the valley are visible from various locations along the way.

  • Summit Overlook

LENGTH: 0.2 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 15 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

This is not necessarily a hike per-se but more of a short walk from the parking lot to the viewing area at the top of the mountain. If you are not looking to get a hike in or are unable for some reason but will still like to enjoy scenic views this trail is for you. It begins at the parking lot and follows a little path that leads to a large boulder from where you will get some of the best views around as well as a view of Pilot Mountain Pinnacle. There are several such lookouts located near the parking lot from which views of the valley are visible on a clear day.

On your way back from Pilot Mountain make sure to make a stop at Divine Llama Vineyard and enjoy a glass of red or white with the Llamas.

#6 HANGING ROCK STATE PARK

Hanging Rock State Park
Hanging Rock State Park

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 1Hour and 50 Minutes

This spot is another favorite of ours that is the ultimate nature lovers paradise. The summit trail offers spectacular views and there are a handful of waterfalls you can enjoy at this spot.

  • Hanging Rock Trail

LENGTH: 2.4 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hour 15 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

This is a must do trail if you like a good exercise that is not strenuous but would still get your heart rate going and rewards you with beautiful views at the end. The hike begins at the parking lot and consist of a steady uphill incline. Watch out for rocks and roots and make sure to check the forecast before heading this way.

  • Upper Cascade Falls
Upper Cascade Falls, Hanging Rock State Park
Upper Cascade Falls, Hanging Rock State Park

LENGTH: 0.8 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 45 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

This is the most beautiful waterfall in the park. The hike begins off the parking following the path to the left of the Visitors Center. The trek is easy with a slight decline to the bottom of the falls and is great for kids and beginner hikers. Upper Cascade Falls are a great spot to let the kids splash on a hot summer day.

  • Hidden and Window Falls

LENGTH: 1.2 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 45 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

This easy hike is great for all skill levels and will bring you to two waterfalls without much effort. You can choose to do just one or do then both whichever works best for you.

  • Lower Cascade Falls

LENGTH: 0.7 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 25 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

This is one of our favorite swimming holes to cool off in the summer. The hike is pretty easy following the wooden stairs down to the bottom of the falls. Once there you will find a wide pool and a beautiful view of the falls. The Lower Cascade Falls is located outside the main entrance for Hanging Rock State Park.

#7 MORROW MOUNTAIN STATE PARK

Morrow Mountain State Park
Morrow Mountain State Park

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 1 Hour and 10 Minutes

For some unknown reason this State Park is so little known yet so full of wonderful trails and we’d love to share some of our favorites here with you today.

  • Sugarloaf Mountain Trail

LENGTH: 2.9 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hour and 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

This trek is our kids favorite. It starts at the parking lot and loops around the mountain top following a narrow well cleared path and offers lovey views of the valley bellow. It is an easy hike and a great one for small kids. Bonus dinosaur tree in the picture!

  • Fall Mountain Trail

LENGTH: 3.8 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 2 Hours

DIFFICULTY: MODERATE

This one is a little more challenging but so very lovely in the fall. It is the perfect running trail if that is something that interests you. If you choose to take this trail make sure to follow the trail markers good as at some points they get a little tricky. 

  • Morrow Mountain Loop Trail

LENGTH: 0.7 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 25 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

Last but not least is the Morrow Mountain Loop trail here. An easy very well marked trail that offers splendid views and is good for all hiking levels.

#8 ROCKY FACE MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA

Rocky Face Recreation Area
Rocky Face Recreation Area

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 1 Hour and 10 Minutes

It is safe to say we come to this area at least once a month and always look forward our visit here. There are a good amount of trails to choose from at this spot and possibly one of the best places to rock climb if this is something you are interested in. The Nature Playground area here is phenomenal and so well maintained that your kids will beg you to come back once they’ve seen it. We have a full article with details on the trails, playground, rock climbing and facilities that you can check out HERE. Below we suggest just one of the trails that we love the most. 

  • Vertical Mile Challenge to Hollow Rock Loop 

Prepare yourself for a pretty good challenge here as true to it’s name this trail brings you straight up almost at a vertical incline before leveling up a little and than going downhill, but not before it rewards you with stunning views of the valley below. This trail is especially beautiful in the spring and fall and we highly recommend you giving it a try.

LENGTH: 3.6 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 2 Hours

DIFFICULTY: EASY

On your way back to Charlotte make sure to stop at Catawba Farms in Newton, NC for a glass of wine and a visit with the animals at the farm. This gorgeous venue is perfect for a wedding or any occasion.

#9 BAKERS MOUNTAIN PARK

Bakers Mountain Park, Catawba County NC
View from the Top of Bakers Mountain

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 1 Hour and 10 Minutes

Next up is anther great hike that is close to Charlotte and is the perfect day trip. Located in Hickory, NC this spot leads to the highest elevation in Catawba County but do not let that deter you from taking a trip here since the hike itself although going uphill is not as strenuous as one might expect it to be.

LENGTH: 2.3 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hour and 15 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

We suggest you pack a a picnic and enjoy it at the top of the mountain while gazing at the splendid views before you. The hike begins at the parking lot and follows a well marked path. Once at the summit take a rest on the benches located at the viewing platform or a sit in the shaded gazebo if looking for a shade. Late May early June is the best time to visit here while the wild azalais are blooming and the trail is painted in pink. 

#10 RIVERBEND PARK

Riverbend Park, Conver, NC

Another lovely hike and a great day trip from Charlotte awaits you in Newton, NC. Riverbend Park offers almost 20 acres of hiking trails to choose from. Our favorite to experience here is the

  • Red to Green Trail

LENGTH: 3.1 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hour and 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

This trail follows Catawba River and at places you can go down to the banks of it and look for rocks. The trail is shaded in the summer and we have never not seen a deer run near by which is always so exciting for our little ones. The Park is closed on Wednesdays so keep this in mind before heading this way.

#11 BOONE’S CAVE PARK

Boone's Cave Park, Lexington, NC

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 1 Hour

There are several short trails you can choose from here or combine them all for a longer trek. All the trails are relatively easy and pretty flat. The history is what gets you at Boone Cave Park. You can walk around and read all about the stomping grounds and the life of Daniel Boone and his family that used the area as a homestead. Our two favorite trails here are: 

  • The Cave and Wildflower Loop Trail

LENGTH: 0.7 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 20 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

This is the most popular trail in the area that brings you to the cave and pass the old stone wall stairs that would remind you of a fairytale story.

  • Cottonwood Trail to Red Oak Trail to Wetland and Woodlands Loop

LENGTH: 1.4 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 40 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

This is the trail you will like to take if you wan to see all the main attractions in the park. It starts at the parking lot and passes through the woods and over the long wooden bridges hovering over the wetlands. It is a really good and interesting trail for kids and we highly recommend it. 

#12 GLEN BURNEY FALLS TRAIL

Glen Burney Trail, Blowing Rock NC
Glen Burney Trail

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 2 Hours

Heading a little bit further and more in the mountains we suggest a hike that will take your breath away.

LENGTH: 2.3 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hour and 20 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

Nestled right in the heart of the town of Blowing Rock this trail is like nothing else. It is short and not very difficult but offers views of three jaw dropping waterfalls and is a must if you are in the area. We love to come here in the winter and although it gets a little slippery while the weather is wet, having the trail all to ourselves most of the time is splendid as the town tends to get busy during the summer and fall months.

We have an expansive list of things to do and hikes in and around Blowing Rock and Boone if you are visiting the area for just a day or longer. You can read more about them HERE.

#13 MOSES CONE MEMORIAL PARK

Moses Cone Manor

Another day trip from Charlotte that is a must is Moses Cone Manor just outside Blowing Rock and on the way to some of the other hikes we will mention here.

There are many hiking trail you can choose from here. They vary from easy to strenuous and can accommodate any hiking skill. after hiking make a visit to the shops in the Mansion and grab a souvenir to take home. We have a list of all the hiking trails that you ca find HERE

#14 BOONE FORK TRAIL and HEBRON FALLS

Boone Fork Trail

 

This is another of our absolute favorite hikes that we do at least once a month. This easy although marked as moderate because of the length hike, offers beautiful views of various waterfalls the most popular of which is the Hebron Falls. 

Boone Fork Trail

LENGTH: 5.2 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 2 Hour and 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

The trail begins at the large parking lot right across the Price Lake. There is another Boone Fork Trail that is a little further down the road on the Blue Ridge Parkway so make sure to put the right directions in your GPS. We have a full article on the trail HERE. 

#15 BASS LAKE LOOP TRAIL

Bass Lake

LENGTH: 0.9 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

Bass Lake, Blowing Rock NC

This is an easy and short trail that is perfect for beginners or hikers that are just starting their journey. The loop that loops around Bass Lake itself is flat and can be completed in less than half an hour or you can choose to extend it and follow the trail up to Moses Manor or any of the others that it connects to. 

#16 PRICE LAKE LOOP TRAIL 

Julian Pri
Julian Price Lake

LENGTH: 2.2 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hour

DIFFICULTY: EASY

This hike is great for beginners as well . We used to come here when the kids were younger couple of times a month and our littles enjoyed the hike every single time. It is short and flat trek and so very beautiful. It loops around Julian Price Lake following a path snug between azalea and rhododendrons with occasional mountain views through the shrubs. It is gorgeous in the fall and spring. If kayaking is your thing bring your own and take a ride or rent one here and enjoy the scenery from the lake. 

#17 ROUGH RIDGE OVERLOOK TRAIL

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 2 Hours and 15 Minutes

LENGTH: 2.5 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hour 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

This trail could easily be the best on The Blue Ridge Parkway. It offers spectacular vistas and is so easy pretty much anyone can do it. It is a great beginners hike but will also be great for advanced hikers if you choose to extend it and instead of just going to the overlook continue on the Tanawha Trail, connect to the Mountain to Sea Trail or go to the Beacon Heights overlook and back. Whichever trail you pick here you will not be disappointed. 

#18 BEACON HEIGHTS OVERLOOK TRAIL

Beacon Heights Overlook Trail

DISTANCE TO CHARLOTTE:  2 Hours and 15 Minutes

LENGTH: 0.6 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 20 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

Another spectacular trail that is short and easy yet offers beautiful views of The Blue Ridge Mountains. If you are ever looking for a sunrise or a sunset hike pick this one. You can easily get up and head back before dark with a head light and catch some gorgeous colors here. 

#19 LINVILLE GORGE FALLS

Linville Falls
Linville Falls

DISTANCE TO CHARLOTTE: 2 Hours and 10 Minutes

LENGTH: 1.6 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hour

DIFFICULTY: EASY

A little further down on the Blue Ridge Parkway you will find one of the most beautiful and highly trafficked waterfalls on the Parkway. The hike here is short and pretty easy with a slight incline to the top overlook for the falls. The trail begins at the parking lot and brings you to the first overlook where you can see the bottom of the falls and then continues up the road to the top overlook from where you will get a real good view of the falls.

Another hike here brings you to the gorge and to where the falls create a pool and give you a good view of the Chimneys. The trail is 1.4 miles long and begins at the Visitor Center following a path through the woods with lots of obstacles along the way. This trail is for more advanced hikers and we wouldn’t recommend it to beginner hikers and small children.

#20 CRABTREE FALLS

Crabtree Falls
Crabtree Falls

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 2 Hours and 10 Minutes

LENGTH: 2.6 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: .1 Hour 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

This is one of the most spectacular waterfalls on The Blue Ridge Parkway and a must if you are a waterfall lover. The beauty of this area is hard to describe and you will have to see it for yourself to believe it. The trek follows a narrow often wet path through the woods with a consistent decline before bringing you to the bottom of the falls and then bringing you back the same way straight up. The hike is so very worth it and we couldn’t recommend it enough.

#21 THE CASCADES

Cascade Falls, "The Cascades", Blue Ridge Parkway, NC, North Carolina, E. B. Jeffress Park
The Cascades at E. B. Jeffress Park

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 1 Hours and 50 Minutes

LENGTH: 0.8 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

While in the area make sure to stop by The Cascades at E. B. Jeffress Park. Another beautiful waterfall and a great leisure walk in the woods. The hike is easy and short and brings you to a little overlook from where you can see the cascades. The area is especially beautiful during the fall months and in late Spring while the mountain laurel is blooming.

#22 ELK KNOB STATE PARK

Elk Knob State Park
Elk Knob State Park

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 2 Hours and 15 Minutes

LENGTH: 3.8 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 2 Hours

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

Another must hike if you are in the area or looking for a day trip. This trail is relatively easy and although there is incline involved it is not straight up but more of a gradual incline. The summit offers stunning views for as long as your eyes can see on a clear day. Take your dogs and kids on this trail and make sure to stop in the town of Boone for some shopping, a lunch or dinner and a drink. There is so much to do here you might wan to spend an entire  weekend. 

Booneshine Brewery
Booneshine Brewery

#23 CUMBERLAND KNOB GAP and GULLY CREEK LOOP TRAIL

LENGTH: 2.2 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 2 Hours and 20 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: HARD

This trail is for the experienced hikers. It begins at the parking lot and follows a narrow (at places very narrow path) through the woods. We suggest you take right from the parking lot and do the hike counter clockwise as that would be the easier way.  Prepare for a lot of creek crossing and getting wet. The trail is shaded for most part and does stay wet and slippery. It is a challenging one and does not offer views just several small waterfalls along the way but it is a great exercise and is sure to get your heart rate going. The best part about this trail is that it is so very little trafficked that you will most likely have it all to yourself and would enjoy the piece and tranquility of Nature fully here. Make sure to check for Park closures before heading this way. The Cumberland Gap parking lot is closed during the winter months.

#24 CHIMNEY ROCK STATE PARK

DISTANCE TO CHARLOTTE: 1 Hour and 50 Minutes

There are so many trails you can pick from here but we will like to share our top 2 that are a must if you chose Chimney Rock State Park for your next visit. 

  • Exclamation Point to Skyline Trail to the top of Hickory Nut Falls

LENGTH: 2.8 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 2 Hour

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

Taking this trail would bring you pass and through the best parts of the Park. The trail starts at the parking lot following the 500 stairs up to the top of the rock formation that is the Chimney Rock. There you will have a beautiful view of the valley and Lake Lure. Continue following the path pass the the Subway, Devil Head formation and finally the stairs to the Skyline Trails. Continue on from here to the Exclamation Point for some more lovely views before heading in the woods on the path that will lead you to the top of the falls. It is a moderate hike with the stairs at the beginning being the hardest part. 

  • Hickory Nut Falls

LENGTH: 1.5 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 45 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

This trail is another good one for beginner hikers. An easy leisure walk in the woods under tall trees leads to a 404 foot tall waterfall that was ones features in the movie ” The Last of The Mohicans”. The hike is perfect for little kids with lot of rocks to skip and wild flowers and plants to look at. Benches along the way offer a great spot for a short rest and a snack break. 

Stop by the town for a lunch by the river or a little shopping at any of the little downtown shops.

#25 RAINBOW FALLS TRAIL

Rainbow Falls Trail
Rainbow Falls Trail

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 2 Hours

The next  five hikes are for our friends in South Charlotte. Starting with one of our absolute favorite trails – The Rainbow Falls at Jones Gap State Park.

LENGTH: 4.4 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 2 Hours 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

Although the hike is pretty steep the reward is so very worth it. Rainbow Falls are absolutely stunning and you will not believe places like this exist until you see them with your own eyes. Make sure to come here early as the park gets busy and you might have to wait to get parking. Bring cash for the paying box. The trail begins at the parking lot and follows a narrow path pretty much straight uphill until you reach the Falls. Bring picnic and enjoy it by the side of the falls. You can spend and entire day here and you should. This spot is beautiful. If you are looking for a souvenir or forgot a snack stop by the Visitors Center and grab something from there. The rocking chairs on the porch outside are comfy and a great spot to sit and rest after the long hike.

#26 FALLS CREEK WATERFALL TRAIL 

Falls Creek Waterfall Trail
Falls Creek Waterfall Trail

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 2 Hours

LENGTH: 2.1 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hours 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: HARD

This hidden gem located near the town of Slater-Marietta in South Carolina is not for the faint of heart but definitely worth the work out. We would not recommend this trail to beginner hikers and small children. The hike starts at the parking lot and goes straight uphill. Ones at the top you will have a chance to get a pretty good look of the massive Falls. They are beautiful and flow pretty hard after a good rain.

#27 WILDCAT BRANCH FALLS

Wildcat Branch Falls
Wildcat Branch Falls

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 2 Hours and 10 Minutes

LENGTH: 1 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 10 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

This spot is perfect for small kids and beginner hikers. The falls are literally by the side of the road and you can see them just by driving by. However if you want to take the Nature Walk and see the Upper Falls you will have to park and take the short walk. Parking can be found by the side of the road. The Falls are the ultimate swimming hole in the summer and a perfect spot to cool off on a hot day. 

#28 TOMS CREEK FALLS TRAIL

Toms Creek Falls
Toms Creek Falls

LENGTH: 0.7 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

We absolutely love this trail and this particular falls and have found ourselves to recommend it to everyone who is looking for a good waterfall hike. The trail is easy and short and doable during any season. It is shaded in summer and so pleasant to walk on. There are campsites neat the creek you can pitch a tent so if you are into camping this is your spot. the falls are beautiful and a lovely spot to cool off on a hot summer day. Parking can be found by the side of the road. 

#29 HAWKSBILL MOUNTAIN TRAIL

Hawksbill Mountain Trail
Hawksbill Mountain Trail

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 2 Hours and 15 Minutes

LENGTH: 2.4 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hour 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

Looking for hike that would bring you to the best views in North Carolina? This is it! Hawksbill Mountain offers the most amazing 360 degree views and the trail getting to the summit is pretty easy and manageable by almost anyone. Make sure to come here early as the parking lot is not very big and does get full. The road leading to the trailhead is dirt road for about 5 miles so take this in consideration before heading this way. The trail begins at the parking lot following a well marked path waving between rhododendron and mountain laurel shrubs. The hike is especially beautiful in Spring and Fall but no matter the season you decide to visit this trail the views never disappoint. 

#30 UPPER CREEK FALLS TRAIL

Upper Creek Falls
Upper Creek Falls

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 1 Hour and 50 Minutes

LENGTH: 1.5 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hour 30 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

The sign on the information board for this hike says that this is the hardest hike in Pisgah National Forest and if you decide to do it clockwise it would definitely feel like it. We suggest you take right at the parking lot and do it counter clockwise which would save you a lot of leg burn. Otherwise the tail is gorgeous and you will have the pleasure to see and swim in (if you choose so) in a handful of waterfalls. This is one of the best swimming holes in North Carolina and you will not be disappointed by what this trail has to offer. 

#31 CATAWBA FALLS

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 2 Hours

LENGTH: 1.2 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 45 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: EASY

If you haven’t been to Catawba Falls yet than you definitely have to make a plan and head this way. This hike is easy and relatively short and pretty much everyone can do it. It is the perfect hike for beginners and small kids and is the ultimate waterfall chaser dream. It’s absolutely beautiful and a great place to cool of in the summer. Catawba Falls is also a short drive from Asheville which makes it the best spot to break up the drive and  stretch your legs here.

#32 FONTA FLORA TRAIL LOOP

Fonta Flora Loop Trail
Fonta Flora Loop Trail

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 1 Hours and 37 Minutes

LENGTH: 3.7 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hour 45 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

An amazing hiking and mountain biking trail awaits you in Nebo. This beautiful trail loops around lake James and offers fantastic views of the lake with the mountains in the background and a great spot to lay on the beach or splash in the water on a warm summer day. An absolute delight and one of the newest trails in North Carolina the Fonta Flora trail is supposed to be completed fully soon and would extend for 90 miles all the way from Morganton to Asheville. 

#33 OTTER FALLS TRAIL

Otter Falls Trail
Otter Falls Trail

DISTANCE FROM CHARLOTTE: 2 Hours and 15 Minutes

LENGTH: 0.9 Miles

TIME TO COMPLETE: 1 Hour 45 Minutes

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

This easy trail is very well marked and maintained and the short hike brings you to a beautiful waterfall that you can splash in in the summer. There is a good amount of parking and the trail is accessible pretty much all year round. This hike is especially beautiful in the winter and worth every step.

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