1. Grandfather Mountain Trails
Location: Near Linville, NC (about 30 minutes from Boone)
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Grandfather Mountain is one of the region’s most iconic landmarks, offering spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park boasts a variety of hiking trails, from the challenging Grandfather Trail to the moderate Profile Trail. For those looking for something less strenuous, the Glen Burney Trail is a beautiful option with waterfall views. Be sure to stop by the Mile-High Swinging Bridge for a panoramic vista.
Highlights:
- Stunning views from the summit
- Wildlife sightings
- Waterfalls on the Glen Burney Trail
2. Boone Fork Trail
Location: Julian Price Park, Blue Ridge Parkway
Difficulty: Moderate
This 5.5-mile loop is a favorite among local hikers, offering a mix of creek-side hiking and forested sections with ample elevation changes. Along the way, hikers will encounter scenic overlooks, boulder fields, and a stream crossing. It’s a great option for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the area without taking on a strenuous hike.
Highlights:
- Beautiful creekside views
- Variety of wildlife
- Accessible via the Blue Ridge Parkway
3. Julian Price Park Trails
Location: Blue Ridge Parkway, 15 minutes from Boone
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Julian Price Park offers multiple trails ranging from easy strolls to moderate hikes. The Price Lake Trail is a lovely 2.3-mile loop around the lake, perfect for a leisurely hike or a peaceful nature walk. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, the Boone Fork Trail connects to this park and offers a more rugged experience.
Highlights:
- Lakeside hiking with peaceful views
- Ideal for picnics and family outings
- Option for a longer trek with Boone Fork Trail
4. Moses Cone Memorial Park Trails
Location: Blue Ridge Parkway, 20 minutes from Boone
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Moses Cone Memorial Park is home to several miles of carriage trails perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The Cone Manor Trail leads to a scenic view of the surrounding area, while the Flat Top Trail provides a higher elevation with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Both trails offer a relaxed way to explore the region’s beauty.
Highlights:
- Historic manor house at the park’s entrance
- Excellent for beginners and families
- Fantastic fall foliage views
5. Elk Knob State Park Trails
Location: Near Todd, NC (15-20 minutes from Boone)
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
For more of a challenge, Elk Knob State Park offers the Elk Knob Trail, a 3.5-mile out-and-back trail that leads to the top of Elk Knob. The trail has a steady incline, but the views at the summit are well worth the effort. On clear days, you can see as far as the Tennessee border. The park also has a Summit Trail, a short, easy trail leading to panoramic views of the area.
Highlights:
- 360-degree views from the summit
- Great for birdwatching
- Less crowded than other local trails
6. Rich Mountain Trail
Location: Near Blowing Rock, NC (20 minutes from Boone)
Difficulty: Moderate
The Rich Mountain Trail is a 3.5-mile loop that leads hikers to the top of Rich Mountain. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of Grandfather Mountain and the surrounding valleys. This trail is less trafficked than some of the more popular hikes in the area, making it a peaceful and secluded experience.
Highlights:
- Spectacular views of Grandfather Mountain
- Ideal for those looking to avoid crowds
- Peaceful, quiet surroundings
7. Linville Gorge Wilderness Trails
Location: Linville, NC (about 45 minutes from Boone)
Difficulty: Strenuous
The Linville Gorge Wilderness Area offers some of the most rugged and remote hiking in the High Country. The Linville Gorge Trail is a challenging route that takes you through some of the most dramatic scenery in the region. For a less strenuous option, the Linville Falls Trail offers a short but rewarding hike to one of North Carolina’s most beautiful waterfalls.
Highlights:
- Dramatic cliffside views of Linville Gorge
- Linville Falls is a must-see waterfall
- Remote and rugged wilderness experience
8. Watauga River Trail
Location: Near Valle Crucis, NC (about 15 minutes from Boone)
Difficulty: Easy
The Watauga River Trail is a 2.5-mile trail that runs along the river through forested areas. It’s a relatively easy walk, making it perfect for families or those looking for a short, leisurely hike. The trail is particularly beautiful in the spring and fall, when the foliage is in full bloom or vibrant with autumn colors.
Highlights:
- Peaceful river views
- Great for families and beginners
- Beautiful seasonal colors
9. Hawksbill Mountain Trail
Location: Near Linville, NC
Difficulty: Moderate
This 1.5-mile out-and-back trail rewards hikers with spectacular views of Linville Gorge. The summit of Hawksbill Mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, making it one of the best spots in the region for photography. It’s a short but moderately challenging trail with a steady incline.
Highlights:
- Gorgeous views of Linville Gorge
- Ideal for a quick but rewarding hike
- Beautiful rock formations at the summit
Boone, NC, and the surrounding towns are an outdoor lover's paradise. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll around a serene lake or a strenuous climb to a mountain peak, there's a trail for you in this stunning corner of North Carolina. From the popular hikes of Grandfather Mountain to the peaceful, hidden gems like Watauga River, you're sure to experience the best of the High Country on these beautiful trails.
- Weather: Be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out, as mountain weather can change quickly.
- Footwear: Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking boots or shoes with good tread for the rocky, sometimes slippery terrain.
- Safety: Carry plenty of water, a map, and snacks, and let someone know your route before you head out.
- Leave No Trace: Respect the natural beauty of the area by staying on marked trails and packing out all trash.
