There are few things more inspiring than North Carolina’s exquisite outdoor attractions. The solitude and natural beauty promised by a hike in the mountains is simply unparalleled. Visit an area like Bryson City, North Carolina, and you’ll find yourself positively surrounded by outdoor adventures within the beloved Great Smoky Mountains. With that in mind, we’ve compiled seven of the most beautiful hiking trails in North Carolina for you to enjoy in any season. Whether you prefer to hike with a friend, a pet, or solo, you’ll find the perfect trek in the following list:

1. Deep Creek Loop Trail
Courtesy of the Bryson City / Swain County NC Chamber of Commerce
Courtesy of the Bryson City / Swain County NC Chamber of Commerce
Just north of Bryson City awaits the Deep Creek Loop Trail, a 4.6-mile loop with gorgeous scenery at every turn. The loop features not one, not two, but three picturesque waterfalls, the first of which is Tom Branch Falls. Next on the route is Indian Creek Falls, followed by Juney Whank Falls. The trail offers plenty of spots to stop and rest along the way, so be sure to allow a few hours to make the most of this adventure.
2. Oconaluftee River Trail
Dan / TripAdvisor
Dan / TripAdvisor
Do you love outings with your four-legged companion? Then the Oconaluftee Trail is the perfect option for you this time of year. This pet-friendly route runs alongside the Oconaluftee River and remains relatively flat the entire way. This 3-mile out-and-back trail will take you from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center at the park's entrance to the edge of Qualla Boundary, which is also the land of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
3. Charlie's Bunion
tartis / TripAdvisor
EdmondsIndiana / TripAdvisor
Charlie's Bunion is a stone outcrop that offers some of the most exquisite mountain views imaginable. The hike will take you on a portion of the famous Appalachian Trail for approximately 4 miles. In fact, if you were to continue along the same trail, it would lead all the way to Mt. Katahdin in Maine! With a total elevation gain of 1,640 feet, this trail is considered to be strenuous. Rest assured, though, the panoramic views will be well worth your effort.
4. Noland Creek Trail
Jay Beckner / AllTrails

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The Road To Nowhere is a beautiful mountain highway that encompasses six miles of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and features a tunnel. Within this area of the park there are several trails to enjoy, one of which is Noland Creek Trail. This 8.4-mile trail follows Noland Creek almost the entire way, offering visitors the relaxing sound or views of running water. Another shorter option is the 3-mile Goldmine Loop.
5. Rufus Morgan Trail
Jamison Paul / AllTrails
Jamison Paul / AllTrails
Not all Great Smoky Mountain trails are strenuous, or even long for that matter. The Rufus Morgan Trail is a prime example. Just 1 mile in length, this peaceful loop takes hikers through a beautiful section of the Nantahala National Forest and alongside the river. The best part of all? All trails within the national forest are pet-friendly. Plus, you may even experience some beautiful wildflowers along this trail depending on the time of year you visit.
6. Wesser Bald via Tellico Road
Rick Cremering / AllTrails
Jaccolien Stein-Wallaard / AllTrails
After parking in the lot along Tellico Road, hikers will embark on a strenuous yet unforgettable climb towards the historic Wesser Bald Fire Tower. From Tellico Gap, the trek will follow the Appalachian Trail to the summit. For those brave enough to climb the fire tower, the views are positively breathtaking. The area surrounding the tower also makes for a great picnic lunch spot.
7. Kephart Prong Trail
Brian Solomon / AllTrails
Brian Matzen / AllTrails
Immerse yourself in the beautiful hardwood forest when you embark on the Kephart Prong Trail. With moderate uphill climbs and a wide pathway that follows the creek, this trail is suitable for nearly all skill levels. With an abundance of rain, hikers can look forward to rushing cascades along the trail. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, as the path can be muddy at times. You'll also love the scenic stream crossings, where you can stop and admire the view.

Have you visited any of these beautiful hiking trails in North Carolina? Do you have any picks for the best hikes near Bryson City NC? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experiences, then, learn more about hiking the Great Smoky Mountains.

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Best Hikes Near Bryson City, NC

Tori Jane | September 29, 2022

What are some of the best hikes near Bryson City, NC?  

Bryson City is ridiculously beautiful, don’t you think? It’s a perfect example of the awesomeness that can transpire when you combine suburbs with nature, and the results are epic. We have several favorite hikes near Bryson City – and in Bryson City – that are outstanding, including the Noland Divide Trail, an 11.45-mile trek that leads to one of the best waterfalls in North Carolina, and the seven-mile hike to Lonesome Pine Overlook is a challenging but delightful adventure that you’re sure to love if you enjoy working up a sweat. Other favorite trails near Bryson City include the three-mile Deep Creek Waterfall Loop, the 2.4-mile Hike Three Waterfalls Loop, and the Juney Whank Falls Loop is less than one mile long and wonderful! 

Where can I go hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains?  

There are literally hundreds of amazing hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountains. These trails are probably some of the most amazing hikes in the United States, and how lucky are we that they’re in our own backyard? Some of the best hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains include the hard (but worth it) 11-mile adventure that is the Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte. The views are to die for, and despite its difficulty, it’s the most popular hike at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If you’d like something a bit easier, no worries – try the 2.4-mile Laurel Falls Trail, which rewards hikers with a wonderful waterfall!  

What are some of the best hiking trails in NC? 

Outside of Smoky Mountains National Park, there are many more trails to choose from. We think some of the best hiking trails in NC aren’t even in the park – and there are lots! Head to the Pisgah National Forest and do the 6.2-mile adventure that is the Looking Glass Rock Trail. You’ll never forget those views! Or, go to Gorges State Park and do the Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Falls Trail, which is just under four miles in length and worth every single step of the way.  

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