Take on this tough 7-mile out-and-back hike to a unique giant bolder with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Blackrock Mountain sits at 5,802 feet which makes it one of the highest peaks of the Plott Balsam Mountain Range! This is an incredible hike you don’t want to miss if you are near Sylva, North Carolina.
This out-and-back hike in Pinnacle Park via the West Fork Trail takes you along an old rocky logging road through a beautiful forest to an open grassy ridge and finally, to the rocky summit of The Pinnacle. The views are rewarding and worth every step. Lace up your hiking boots and take on this incredible yet challenging hike near Sylva, North Carolina!
Hike along on one of the most scenic trails in North Carolina – Art Loeb Trail. This fairly short hike takes you through a forest full of balsam fir and berry bushes and open fields of meadow grasses and wildflowers with panoramic views. The trail summits two mountains with the first being Black Balsam Knob, sitting at 6,214 feet, and Tennent Mountain, sitting at 6,040 feet.
Take a short hike to (what used to be) one of the most popular waterfalls along the Blue Ridge Parkway. After a tropical storm in 2021, Skinny Dip Falls has been completely changed. It used to be a popular swimming hole, and lots of people would travel to take a dip in the refreshing, cold water.
Skinny Dip Falls is now made up of smaller cascades creating small, shallow pools. On a hot summer’s day, you can still cool off in the cold, crisp water! Although the waterfall looks different, it’s worth a visit!
Take a hike through a forest of rhododendron, a field of wildflowers, pick blueberries in the fall, and visit two amazing waterfalls all in a 3.5-mile trail. Graveyard Fields is a popular and unique hike off of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Don’t miss this perfect family-friendly and pet-friendly hike!
Sitting at 5,720 feet at its peak, Devil’s Courthouse is a prominent landmark along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Hike nearly half a mile with 280 feet of elevation gain to reach an observation point on Devil’s Courthouse. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views as far as the eye can see! On a clear sunny day, you can see all the way to South Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee.
Sitting at 5,920 feet, Andrews Bald is the highest grassy bald in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This trail used to be quite treacherous until major improvements were made by Friends of the Smokies. Thanks to them, this hike is now accessible for adventurous people of all ages!
Escape the crowds of Clingmans Dome and find peace at one of the most beautiful grassy balds in the Smoky Mountains. Take the short hike to Andrews Bald and enjoy the amazing views of the southern Smokies and Fontana Lake. Set up a nice picnic on a warm, sunny day, capture the picturesque scenery, or simply breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy being in nature.
Clingmans Dome is a very popular touristy spot. But why? Well, sitting at 6,643 feet, it is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park AND in Tennessee! A short yet steep paved path leads to a 54-foot observation tower which offers beautiful 360-degree views.
Get there early, watch a stunning sunrise (if you’re lucky), and capture a few awesome shots. Make sure you are prepared for the steep incline (almost a 13% grade) and check the weather conditions prior to your trip. If you are in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Clingmans Dome is an adventure you don’t want to miss!