Add These Trail Hikes to Your Asheville Adventure List
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina, is a hiker’s paradise. From cascading waterfalls to serene riverside walks, this region offers some of the most breathtaking trails in the Southeast. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a peaceful escape into nature, here are some of Asheville’s best spring hikes you won’t want to miss.
Oconaluftee River Trail Hike
For a peaceful and family-friendly hike, the Oconaluftee River Trail is a great choice. An hours drive west of Asheville, this easy, 3-mile round-trip trail follows the Oconaluftee River and is one of the few dog-friendly trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Keep an eye out for elk, which are often seen grazing near the trail!
Location: Great Smokey Mountains National Park
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 3 miles round-trip
Highlights: Riverside views, wildlife sightings
Image Credit: SmokeyMountains.com
Deep Creek Trails – 3 Hikes in 1
The Deep Creek Trail Hikes makes our Asheville’s Best Trail Hikes list – offers a trio of stunning waterfalls—Indian Creek Falls, Tom Branch Falls, and Juney Whank Falls. The loop trails here provide an enjoyable mix of easy and moderate hiking, making it a perfect destination for families and casual hikers. During summer, Deep Creek is also a popular spot for tubing, adding to its appeal. Make it a full day and visit Bryson City and Sylva, amazing small mountain towns with vibrant downtowns full with culture, art, dining and breweries!
Location: Great Smokey Mountains National Park
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Length: Loop options range from 2.4 miles to 5 miles round-trip
Highlights: Three beautiful waterfalls, tubing in summer
Image Credit: Indian Falls greatsmokies.com
Black Balsam Knob Hike & The Art Loeb Trail
A favorite among locals, Black Balsam Knob is part of the famed Art Loeb Trail. This hike takes you through stunning high-elevation meadows, offering some of the best panoramic views in the region. The easy-to-access trailhead and relatively short distance make it a fantastic option for sunrise and sunset hikes.
Location: Blue Ridge Parkway
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 1.5 miles round-trip to Black Balsam Knob; longer options available along the Art Loeb Trail
Mile Marker: Blue Ridge Parkway MM 420
Highlights: 360-degree mountain views, open grassy balds
Image Credit: hikewnc.info
Graveyard Fields Loop
Despite its eerie name, Graveyard Fields is one of the most beautiful hikes off the Blue Ridge Parkway. The trail features multiple waterfalls, open meadows, and seasonal wild blueberry bushes, making it a favorite among nature lovers. In autumn, the area explodes with vibrant fall colors, offering some of the best leaf-peeping opportunities in the region.
Location: Blue Ridge Parkway
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 3.2 miles round-trip
Mile Marker: Blue Ridge Parkway MM 418.8
Highlights: Waterfalls, wild blueberries (in season), mountain views
Image Credit: AshevilleTrails.com
Rainbow Falls & Turtleback Hike
For those who love waterfalls, Rainbow Falls is a must-see. This best hike is just an hour’s drive from Asheville, this 3.9-mile round-trip hike leads to a spectacular 150-foot waterfall that creates a misty rainbow effect on sunny days. The trail is moderately challenging but well worth the effort, especially after a good rain when the falls are at their most powerful.
Location: Gorges State Park
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Length: 3.9 miles round-trip
Highlights: 150-foor waterfall, lush forest
Image Credit: hikewnc.info
Grandfather Mountain Trail and Profile Trail
Grandfather Mountain is one of the most well-known hiking destinations in North Carolina. With challenging trails like the Grandfather Trail and Profile Trail, this area provides rewarding views for those willing to tackle the steep ascents. The Mile High Swinging Bridge offers a stunning overlook, making this a must-visit for thrill-seekers and photographers alike.
Location: Linville, NC
Difficulty: Strenuous
Length: Varies, Grandfather Trail (4.8 miles round trip), Profile Trail (7 miles round trip)
Highlights: Iconic Mile High Swinging Bridge, rugged peaks, panoramic views
Image Credit: grandfather.com
Did Our Asheville’s Best Trails and Hikes Make Your Adventure List?
Asheville and its surrounding areas are packed with incredible hiking opportunities. Whether you’re in the mood for a challenging summit climb, a leisurely riverside stroll, or a waterfall-filled adventure, there’s a trail for everyone. After a long day of exploring, come back and relax at our exclusive vacation rentals, designed for comfort and convenience, ensuring you have the perfect mountain getaway. Lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to explore some of Western North Carolina’s most breathtaking landscapes by exploring our favorite hikes near Asheville!
As our community continues to recover from Hurricane Helene, safe and mindful travel remains essential. If you’re planning a trip, be sure to check DriveNC.gov for the latest updates on open roads and recommended routes. While many destinations are now open to visitors, some roads may still be affected—so planning ahead can make all the difference.
Lead Image Credit: Explore Asheville