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Best extra difficult hikes in North Carolina
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Best extra difficult hikes in North Carolina

Only the bravest need apply! These extra-difficult hikes are not for the faint of heart.

Here are some great hikes to explore in North Carolina.

Most popular hikes

1

Extra Difficult

Art Loeb Trail

Transylvania County, North Carolina · star 4.8 (11) · 46.5 km · Est. 3 days

2

Extra Difficult

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - Nantahala Gorge To Davenport Gap

Swain County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (10) · 163.6 km · Est. 11 days

3

Extra Difficult

Linville Gorge Loop

Burke County, North Carolina · star 4.6 (10) · 41.4 km · Est. 3 days

4

Extra Difficult

Baxter Creek, Mount Sterling and Big Creek Loop Trail

Haywood County, North Carolina · star 5.0 (2) · 26.9 km · Est. 2 days

5

Extra Difficult

Mount Mitchell Trail

Yancey County, North Carolina · star 4.3 (6) · 17.5 km · Est. 2 days

6

Extra Difficult

Chestnut Branch Trail to Mount Cammerer

Haywood County, North Carolina · star 5.0 (2) · 18.7 km · Est. 2 days

7

Extra Difficult

Hangover Lead Trail

Graham County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (6) · 20.7 km · Est. 2 days

8

Extra Difficult

Fork Mountain Trail

Haywood County, North Carolina · star 5.0 (1) · 22.0 km · Est. 2 days

9

Extra Difficult

Far Bald Springs via Chunky Gal Trail

Clay County, North Carolina · star 4.7 (3) · 17.5 km · Est. 2 days

10

Extra Difficult

Omphus Ridge Trail

Clay County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (2) · 2.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 4 min

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Reviews for extra difficult hikes in North Carolina

Matthew Larkin avatar

Art Loeb Trail

matthewavl 路 reviewed 8 months ago

star star star star star

Did the trail northbound late-April 2025. Had plenty of water, especially along the southern parts, after a rainy week prior. Pilot Mountain ascent was brutal but made later ascents, even the one to the parkway and Black Balsam feel like a walk in the park. The Narrows was my favorite part (did it at sunrise), reminiscent of the Chimneys at Linville Gorge. And there's an exceptionally lone Rhododendron that stands atop a distinctive pile of boulders near the top of Sassafras Mountain -- an interesting sight!

Alisa Niva avatar

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - Nantahala Gorge To Davenport Gap

Alisa Niva 路 reviewed over 5 years ago

star star star star star

Irene Morales avatar

Linville Gorge Loop

Irene Morales 路 reviewed over 5 years ago

star star star star star

Lorena VonRueden avatar

Baxter Creek, Mount Sterling and Big Creek Loop Trail

BaseAspenseeker77 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Particia Romaguera avatar

Mount Mitchell Trail

TrailmarkerFjordfinder68 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes 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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