Highlands is the perfect getaway for hiking enthusiasts seeking an adventure. With a picturesque town, waterfalls, and mountain views, this location offers a lot of value for your time and money. In addition, there are plenty of amazing restaurants and accommodations to make your stay a comfortable one.
The best part? All of these hikes are easily accessible within a 20-30 minute radius of the town, which means you can enjoy multiple trails during your stay.
Get ready to lace up your hiking boots as we share with you our top eight favorite hikes near Highlands, NC. From easy walking paths to challenging trails, these hikes have been personally vetted and highly recommended.
1. Whiteside Mountain Trail
Length: 1.9mi loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Dog Friendly: Yes
Kid Friendly: Yes
Located just a short 10-minute drive from the quaint town of Highlands, Whiteside Mountain Trail offers a stunning hiking experience. Surprisingly, the trail is so well-hidden that one wouldn't expect it to be so close to town.
This trail boasts astonishing cliff walls that stand over 700 feet tall! It's a loop that offers two hiking options – clockwise or counterclockwise. If you choose to go clockwise, be prepared for a steep ascent up the mountain followed by a gradual descent. On the other hand, if you go counterclockwise, you'll first ascend the left road before beginning your descent.
What sets this trail apart is the plethora of different viewpoints and lookouts along the top, providing spectacular views of the incredible cliffs. The trail is heavily trafficked, but there is enough space for everyone to spread out and enjoy their own space.
Fun fact: Did you know that the town of Highlands dates back to 1875, long before a road to Whiteside Mountain was constructed? The solution was the historic Kelsey Trail, which quickly became a beloved activity for Highlands residents. Today, the trail is protected by the Highlands Plateau Greenway, a non-profit organization that safeguards and maintains many of the hikes near Highlands, NC.
2. Silver Run Falls
Length: 0.2mi out & back
Difficulty: Easy
Dog Friendly: Yes
Kid Friendly: Yes
If you're planning a trip to Whiteside but concerned about the parking situation, or simply looking for an additional adventure, consider checking out Silver Run Falls. This breathtaking waterfall is just a short distance away and can be accessed by parking in a small pull-off along NC Highway 107. Look out for the large sign on the right side of the lot to find the trailhead easily.
Within minutes of starting your hike, you'll be greeted by the stunning 20ft waterfall, and there's plenty of room to admire it from afar. However, if you're in the mood for a swim, the deep and easily accessible swimming hole is a must-visit during the summer months. It's a fantastic spot for a quick but refreshing dip!
Check out more Waterfalls in the area here!
3. Glen Falls
Length: 2.4mi out & back
Difficulty: Moderate
Dog Friendly: Yes
Kid Friendly: Yes
If you're a waterfall enthusiast, then Highlands is the perfect destination for you. Nantahala National Forest is home to many spectacular waterfalls, and Glen Falls is no exception. This short hike boasts a stunning three-part waterfall that's sure to leave you captivated.
The trail begins with a descent through a picturesque forest, which was even more breathtaking during my autumn visit. The upper falls are the first to greet you, followed by the middle falls which is many people’s favorite spot along the trail. Finally, you'll reach the lower falls, which marks the endpoint of the hike. The climb back up can be challenging, so it's advisable to bring trekking poles to assist with the steep incline.
4. Chinquapin Mountain Trail
Length: 3.1mi out & back
Difficulty: Moderate
Dog Friendly: Yes
Kid Friendly: Yes
Looking for a breathtaking hike? The Chinquapin Mountain Trail offers incredible mountain views you won't want to miss. Start your adventure in the same parking lot as Glen Falls and prepare for a day of waterfalls and scenic mountain views.
After beginning on the trail that leads to Glen Falls, be sure to take an immediate right onto the Chinquapin Mountain Trail. Keep your eyes peeled since it's easy to miss. Trek through the forest, cross creeks, and navigate switchbacks to reach the top.
Once at the summit, you can choose the number of lookout points you visit. There are five in total, each with its own spur trail leading to it. Lookouts 5 and 3 are highly recommended. The trail to Lookout 5 is short and easy, and you'll even catch a glimpse of Whiteside Mountain in the distance to your left. In contrast, the hike to Lookout 3 requires more time and effort, as it's downhill and requires a climb back out. Nevertheless, the views from Lookout 3 are worth the extra work!
Need some clothing or hiking gear? Check out shopping in downtown Highlands!
5. Yellow Mountain Trail
Length: 3.0mi out & back
Difficulty: Hard
Dog Friendly: Yes
Kid Friendly: Yes
The fire tower at the top offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, providing the feeling of being on top of the world. Although this is a shortcut, it's still a challenging hike, as you'll be hiking a steep incline the entire way up. The trail is suitable for children, but would recommend this hike only for older kids who are surefooted.
To get to the trailhead at Cloud Catcher Lane, use the following address: 1898-1890 Cloud Catcher Ln, Cullowhee, NC 28723. When you arrive, you'll drive up a narrow gravel road that leads to a clearing where the road ends. This clearing serves as the parking area. To start the hike, follow the trail located in the back left corner, which is marked by a short, brown US Forest sign.
6. Sunset Rock Trail
Length: 1.4mi out & back
Difficulty: Easy
Dog Friendly: Yes
Kid Friendly: Yes
Sunset Rock is one of the most popular hiking trails near Highlands, NC, offering breathtaking mountain views. What's even better is that it's only a few minutes away from the town center, making it the perfect spot for a quick adventure.
If you want a spectacular sunset we highly recommend this trail. It never fails to amaze!
To get to the trailhead, park your car across from the Nature Center on Horse Cove Road. Walk up the gravel road until you see the short spur trail for Sunset Rock on your right. Once you reach the top, you'll be able to enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and Highlands.
After your hike, head into town and stop by Mountain Fresh Grocery for some delicious pizza.
7. Dry Falls
Length: 0.4mi out & back
Difficulty: Easy
Dog Friendly: Yes
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dry Falls is an absolute must-see attraction when it comes to hiking trails in Highlands, NC. It's one of the most renowned hikes in the area and is sure to make your visit worthwhile. Compared to other trails on this list, Dry Falls has a relatively large parking area, which fills up quickly due to its popularity. But don't worry, the turnaround is fast because the hike is short.
Cullasaja River boasts several waterfalls, and Dry Falls is one of them. You can view it from the upper viewing platform, which is handicap accessible and stroller-friendly, or go down the stairs for a closer look. Visiting this waterfall during the different seasons never disappoints, and it's always a thrill to walk behind the powerful 65-foot waterfall.
8. Secret Falls
Length: 1.3mi out & back
Difficulty: Moderate
Dog Friendly: Yes
Kid Friendly: Yes
Looking for a quiet hike? This trailhead is the perfect choice. After a ten-minute drive down a gravel road, you'll find yourself deep in the forest. Keep your eyes peeled for a small parking area on your right, as it's easy to miss.
The majority of the trail is simple but be prepared for a moderate descent to the base of the waterfall. As you approach the waterfall, the trail will divide into two paths. The left path leads to the top, while the right path leads to the base. To get to the base, you'll have to navigate a set of stairs that have been affected by erosion. Be cautious and watch your step.
Arriving at the base of the waterfall, you'll find a sandy beach-like area to the left. It's an ideal spot to relax and take in the 50-foot waterfall's breathtaking beauty. If you're lucky enough to visit on a warm day, make sure to take a dip in the refreshing swimming hole!
