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Best wildlife hiking trails in Ashe County
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Best wildlife hiking trails in Ashe County

Calling all nature lovers! These wildlife-rich trails give you the chance to spot some of the forest鈥檚 cutest (or wildest) inhabitants while keeping a respectful distance, of course.

Here are some great trails to explore in Ashe County.

Most popular trails

1

Medium

Mountains to Sea Trail - Segment 5

Ashe County, North Carolina · star 5.0 (11) · 1.6 km · Est. 26 min

2

Difficult

Three Top Mountain Trail

Ashe County, North Carolina · star 4.0 (14) · 6.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 7 min

3

Medium

Mount Jefferson via Summit Trail and Rhododendron Trail

Ashe County, North Carolina · star 5.0 (12) · 2.1 km · Est. 33 min

4

Medium

Mountain Ridge, Mount Jefferson and Lost Province Loop Trail

Ashe County, North Carolina · star 5.0 (16) · 8.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 17 min

5

Medium

Pond Mountain Hunt Camp Out and Back

Ashe County, North Carolina · star 5.0 (22) · 8.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 25 min

6

Medium

Mount Jefferson and Lost Province Loop Trail

Ashe County, North Carolina · star 4.0 (20) · 2.9 km · Est. 48 min

7

Easy

Teaberry Road via Big Horse Creek

Ashe County, North Carolina · star 4.0 (19) · 1.1 km · Est. 14 min

8

Medium

Mountain Ridge Trail

Ashe County, North Carolina · star 4.0 (12) · 3.2 km · Est. 54 min

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Reviews for wildlife hiking trails in Ashe County

Shane Dickens II avatar

Mountains to Sea Trail - Segment 5

StriderWayfarer28 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Thomas Dicki avatar

Three Top Mountain Trail

BirchMeadowwalker89 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Suzann Boyle avatar

Mount Jefferson via Summit Trail and Rhododendron Trail

AspenNavigator54 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Tyrone Bechtelar avatar

Mountain Ridge, Mount Jefferson and Lost Province Loop Trail

SequoiaTrotter58 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Leigh Cummerata avatar

Pond Mountain Hunt Camp Out and Back

GlacierWildtracker78 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Ashe County

What is the climate like for hiking in North Carolina?

North Carolina's climate varies greatly from the coastal plains to the mountainous regions. Coastal and Piedmont areas experience hot summers and mild winters, while the mountains can be significantly cooler. However, extreme temperatures can make summer hiking challenging and winter hiking risky due to icy trails and potential snowfall.
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable hiking conditions, with moderate temperatures and lower humidity. Fall is particularly attractive as the forests explode with autumn colors.
The best time to hike in North Carolina generally spans from March to May and September to November. Regardless of the season, check weather forecasts before setting out, and visit the North Carolina State Parks website (https://www.ncparks.gov/) for trail conditions and closures.

Do I need a permit to hike in North Carolina?

Most hiking trails in North Carolina are free and open to the public without a permit. Certain areas, like state parks or wildlife refuges, might require entrance fees or permits. Contact North Carolina State Parks (https://www.ncparks.gov/) for specific information.

Is wild camping allowed in North Carolina?

Wild camping in North Carolina is allowed in many national forest areas, though restrictions apply, such as maintaining distance from water sources. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. For specifics, consult the U.S. Forest Service's website for the region (https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/nfsnc/home).

Are there mountain rescue services in North Carolina?

In case of emergencies while hiking in North Carolina, dial 911. Local law enforcement coordinates with voluntary organizations for Search and Rescue operations. For safety tips and emergency information, consult the North Carolina State Parks website (https://www.ncparks.gov/).

Are there dangerous plants in North Carolina?

North Carolina's flora is richly diverse, from coastal pines to mountain rhododendrons. While hiking, you might encounter blooming dogwoods in spring or fiery maples in fall. For a deeper understanding of the region's flora, visit the North Carolina Botanical Garden's website (https://ncbg.unc.edu/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, hikers may encounter wildlife ranging from deer and squirrels to black bears, especially in the mountains. Insects like ticks and mosquitoes are common in warmer months. Always respect wildlife and consider insect repellent. For more information, consult the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission https://a-z-animals.com/animals/location/north-america/united-states/north-carolina/

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