Hikes
Below is just a small sampling of the hikes you could take with us… if you have one in mind, just let us know! We will customize one for you. Trips change all the time, keep an eye on this page for updates!
Roan Highlands
Considered one of the most scenic areas on the entire Appalachian Trail, this section starting from Carver’s Gap (elevation 5,512) takes you across three spectacular unique grassy hilltops known as balds with unimpeded views. If you arrive in mid-to-late June, you’ll catch the rhododendron bloom which is one of Western North Carolina’s most anticipated seasonal events, along with the bloom of the rare, endangered Gray’s Lily.
This is also a breathtaking beautiful winter hike if you’re up for that. Early February is when we recommend. The weather can be very unpredictable at these elevations, but we’re prepared for all of it.
Roan Mountain features a collection of rare plant life, including some of the most beautiful wildflowers in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Leave what you find so blooms are there for others enjoy. You may often find researchers and trail maintenance workers painstakingly taking care of the Roan’s. We appreciate all of those folks, and do our best to preserve our trails for generations to come.
The Great Balsams
The Great Balsam Mountains are in the mountain region of Western North Carolina. The Great Balsams are a subrange of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which in turn are a part of the Appalachian Mountains. The most famous peak in the Great Balsam range is Cold Mountain, which is the centerpiece of author Charles Frazier's bestselling novel Cold Mountain. We've done this one in the fall and it's totally worth the effort.
Art Loeb Trail
The Art Loeb Trail is a 30.1-mile hiking trail located in Pisgah National Forest in Western North Carolina. The northern terminus is at the Daniel Boone Boy Scout Camp in Haywood County, while the trail's southern terminus is located near the Davidson River Campground in Transylvania County. This is a very rewarding trail but not the easiest. Bring your determination and be ready for anything. Ask us about being in our tent at Flower Gap with remnants of a hurricane going by. It’s a great story.
Max Patch
On top of Max Patch Mountain near Hot Springs, this 4,600-ft. bald mountain was cleared and used as pasture in the 1800s. Today, it's a 350-acre tract of open land on a high knob with 360-degree views. It's one of the most spectacular settings you'll experience in the Blue Ridge. Max Patch is currently protected from camping, fires, and a few other things to keep it safe for generations to come. We support the conservation of Max Patch and practice leave no trace principals.
Dupont State Forest Waterfalls: Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, High Falls and Bridal Veil Falls
Dupont State Forest is one of the best places to get a sampling of waterfalls in the area (In our humble opinion). The Little River drops off a 12 - foot ledge at Hooker Falls before flowing into Cascade Lake further downstream. Hooker Falls is the fourth waterfall on Little River starting with Bridal Veil Falls, then High Falls, Triple Falls and Hooker Falls. This one is for all the waterfall lovers.
Rich Mountain Fire Tower
Near Hot Springs is the historic fire lookout tower on Rich Mountain (3,643 feet elevation). From the top of the tower, enjoy beautiful panoramic mountain views on the NC / TN state line. The tower was restored in the spring of 2018 through a partnership with the North Carolina Forest Fire Lookout Association, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, and US Forest Service. There are a few ways to access the Tower and we have hiked them all. Come with us, and we'll show you!