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Best backpacking hiking trails in North Carolina
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Best backpacking hiking trails in North Carolina

Got your backpack ready? These multi-day trails are perfect for hardcore adventurers looking to carry everything they need for an extended journey into the wild.

Here are some great trails to explore in North Carolina.

Most popular trails

1

Difficult

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - Davenport Gap to Max Patch Road

Haywood County, North Carolina · star 4.0 (11) · 23.3 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

2

Easy

Uwharrie, Dennis Mountain and Dutchman's Creek Loop Trail

Montgomery County, North Carolina · star 4.0 (19) · 18.3 km · Est. 4 hrs 26 min

3

Easy

Coolers Knob Mountain - Birkhead Mountain Trail

Randolph County, North Carolina · star 4.0 (19) · 17.7 km · Est. 4 hrs 8 min

4

Easy

Robbins Branch, Birkhead Mountain and Hannah's Creek Loop Trail

Randolph County, North Carolina · star 4.0 (20) · 10.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 32 min

5

Medium

Appalachian Trail from Spivey Gap

Yancey County, North Carolina · star 4.0 (21) · 17.3 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

6

Medium

Pump Gap and Tanyard Gap via Appalachian Trail

Madison County, North Carolina · star 5.0 (28) · 16.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 30 min

7

Medium

Panthertown Valley Trail, Little Green Mountain and Salt Rock Gap Loop

Jackson County, North Carolina · star 4.0 (23) · 8.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 11 min

8

Medium

Andrew Bald, Buckhorn Bald and Jenkins Knob via Appalachian Trail

Swain County, North Carolina · star 4.0 (6) · 34.8 km · Est. 1 day 4 hrs

9

Medium

Big Bald-Little Bald-High Rocks via Appalachian Trail

Madison County, North Carolina · star 4.0 (16) · 24.6 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

10

Easy

Appalachian Trail from Indian Grave Gap

Mitchell County, North Carolina · star 5.0 (16) · 12.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 49 min

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Reviews for backpacking hiking trails in North Carolina

Mathias Nielsen avatar

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - Davenport Gap to Max Patch Road

Mathias Nielsen · reviewed over 5 years ago

star star star star star

Miriam Ebert avatar

Uwharrie, Dennis Mountain and Dutchman's Creek Loop Trail

ScoutStreamfinder63 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Kimbra Harber avatar

Coolers Knob Mountain - Birkhead Mountain Trail

ClimberRidgechaser13 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Velda Rowe avatar

Robbins Branch, Birkhead Mountain and Hannah's Creek Loop Trail

CliffTundrarunner37 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Violet Schiller avatar

Appalachian Trail from Spivey Gap

FjordAdventureguide24 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in North Carolina

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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