Calloway Peak via Profile Trail is a most enchanting hike in North Carolina. This 7.4-mile out-and-back hike might clock in at about eight or more miles. But when we’re in the kind of shape to tackle this challenge, who’s counting? Sitting in the glorious Grandfather Mountain State Park in Banner Elk, this route is strenuous and difficult. The trek for about the last mile is a thousand steps on rocks, and with three ladders to climb, it is recommended to keep the dogs at home. Every season honors the incredible lookout points of this most enchanting hike that includes a giant human profile.

The adventure begins at the Profile Trail parking area and ends at the Grandfather Trail at Calloway Gap.
Profile Trail Road, Parking lot, Profile Trail Rd, Linville, NC 28646, USA
Gary Forstrom/AllTrails
The parking lot opens at 8:00 a.m., offering clean bathrooms.
The well-marked path starts out pretty mild and muddy for the first 1-1/2 miles.
Ali Sandy/AllTrails
Many hikers have advised not to bring dogs due to the challenging terrain.
Look out for the rewards along the way and some impressive sights.
Carolyn Hession/AllTrails
Take a picture with the interesting Grandfather face profile on the way up.
This sign points the way.
Brian Kowalski/AllTrails
And cavernous rocks are available to explore with hidden spaces tucked inside.
Susan Spickard/AllTrails

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We love the cool stream crossings and rushing waterfalls.
Matt Miles/AllTrails
The last few miles are pretty steep with a steady incline, making the descent also challenging, especially when it rains.
Roy Paleta/AllTrails
And we can't believe the added surprising feature of three ladders at the top for an advantage while viewing.
Kelly Nowokunski/AllTrails
After the third one, it's only about 25 feet from the peak.
While many pretty sights exist along the ridge of this trail, this 1,400-foot elevation is why we're here.
Ethan Venable/AllTrails
And the sunset never looked better.
Matt Moreau/AllTrails

The most enchanting hike in North Carolina is worth the trouble. Find Calloway Peak via Profile Trail on the AllTrails website.

And while you’re in Banner Elk, discover more about the exciting Grandfather Mountain State Park.

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Grandfather Mountain State Park, 9872 Highway 105 South, Banner Elk, NC 28604, USA