Best Fall Hikes In North Carolina
North Carolina in the fall is a sight to behold, as its diverse landscape transforms into a canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. The state's varying elevations, from coastal plains to the Appalachian Mountains, give a mix of experiences to nature enthusiasts. In autumn, the crisp air and foliage create an ideal setting for outdoor adventures, particularly hiking. North Carolina is home to numerous trails that showcase the season, from rugged mountain paths to serene forest walks. Each of the trails in this article offers unique views and experiences, making it a haven for hikers seeking to immerse themselves in nature's seasonal splendor.
Rough Ridge Trail
Rough Ridge Trail, situated at Milepost 302.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, is a 0.8-mile trek that takes hikers through a series of rock outcrops. This trail provides a moderately challenging hike, featuring wooden boardwalks and rugged, rocky terrain. As you ascend to an elevation of about 4,773 feet, the trail has expansive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. In the fall, the surrounding hardwood forests burst into vibrant colors, making it a prime spot for leaf peeping. The trail also offers views of the Linn Cove Viaduct and Grandfather Mountain—a picturesque backdrop to the fall foliage.
Crabtree Falls Trail
The Crabtree Falls Trail is situated at Milepost 339.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is a 2.6-mile loop through dense forest terrain. This moderately challenging trail takes you on a descent into a wooded area filled with a variety of tree species that come alive in the fall. The trail's highlight is the 70-foot Crabtree Falls, which cascades down a rock face. As you hike, you'll traverse steep and rocky sections that add an element of adventure. During autumn, the forest canopy overhead displays an array of hues, while fallen leaves carpet the path and crunch under hikers' boots.
Graveyard Fields Loop
Graveyard Fields Loop, at Milepost 418.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, is a 3-mile trail known for its diverse landscapes. Named for its tree stumps that resemble gravestones, this trail takes you through meadows, woodlands, and alongside two waterfalls—Lower Falls and Upper Falls. The meadows are particularly striking in the fall, covered in goldenrod and surrounded by forests that turn shades of red and yellow. The trail includes boardwalks and stairs to help navigate the varied terrain, which makes the hike more accessible. As you journey through this loop, you can enjoy the rustling of leaves and the cascading waters of the falls.
Erwins View Trail
Linville Falls, located at Milepost 316.4 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, offers multiple trails with varying difficulties, but the most popular is the Erwins View Trail. This 1.8-mile hike takes you through a forested area to several overlooks with views of the Linville Falls cascading into the Linville Gorge. During the fall, the surrounding deciduous trees display a range of colors. The overlooks, including Chimney View and Erwins View, are vantage points to capture the falls framed by the autumn foliage. The trail is well-maintained and includes sections with wooden stairs and railings. It is accessible to most hikers.
Black Balsam Knob
Black Balsam Knob is part of the Art Loeb Trail in Pisgah National Forest—a 1.4-mile round-trip hike to one of the best vistas in the area. The trailhead is located near Milepost 420 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. This hike is known for its high-elevation bald. It has 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. In the fall, the open summit allows for an unobstructed panorama of the Blue Ridge Mountains covered in a tapestry of autumn colors. The trail crosses through grassy fields and rocky outcrops, and while it has some steep sections, the relatively short distance makes it manageable. The wide-open views and foliage make this a favorite among photographers and hikers alike.
Hawksbill Mountain Trail
Hawksbill Mountain Trail, within the Linville Gorge Wilderness, is a 2.1-mile hike leading to one of the most dramatic overlooks in the area. The trail ascends through a forest of mixed hardwoods and rhododendrons. Both give hikers a burst of color in the fall. As you near the summit, the vegetation opens up to reveal views of Linville Gorge, with Table Rock Mountain visible across the expanse. The last portion of the trail involves a steep and rocky ascent, but the effort is rewarded. The rugged landscape and vistas make Hawksbill a must-visit for those seeking a quintessential North Carolina fall hike.
Looking Glass Rock Trail
The Looking Glass Rock Trail is a 5.6-mile round-trip hike in Pisgah National Forest, leading to the summit of a massive granite dome. The trailhead is located off U.S. Highway 276, and the path climbs steadily through a dense forest of hardwoods and pines. The trail includes several switchbacks and a few steep sections, but the view from the top is well worth the effort. At the summit, you'll find a large, flat rock surface with views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, adorned with fall colors. Looking Glass Rock is also a popular spot for catching the sunset.
North Carolina's best fall hikes are rich experiences of the state's natural beauty. Trails like Rough Ridge provide an accessible yet rewarding journey through forests and rocky outcrops, with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Crabtree Falls Trail adds an adventurous element with its steep, rocky sections. And, Graveyard Fields Loop showcases a diverse landscape, from open meadows to waterfalls, all set against a backdrop of goldenrod and colorful foliage. These trails, among others, exemplify North Carolina's autumn allure. Whether you prefer panoramic mountain vistas or forested waterfalls, these hikes allow you to witness the season in all its glory.
