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Best backpacking hikes in Haywood County
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Best backpacking hikes in Haywood County

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Haywood County.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - Davenport Gap to Max Patch Road

Haywood County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (11) · 23.3 km · Est. 7 hrs 11 min

2

Easy

Lower Walnut Bottom - Big Creek Trail

Haywood County, North Carolina · star 4.4 (14) · 16.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 2 min

3

Medium

Big Creek, Swallow Fork and Gunter Fork Loop Trail

Haywood County, North Carolina · star N/A (0) · 44.1 km · Est. 2 days

4

Medium

Mount Sterling Trail, Pretty Hollow Gap Trail and Little Cataloochee Trail Loop

Haywood County, North Carolina · star 4.4 (21) · 29.9 km · Est. 2 days

5

Medium

Big Creek Trail, Mount Sterling and Baxter Creek Trail Loop

Haywood County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (22) · 27.0 km · Est. 2 days

6

Medium

Caldwell Fork, Cataloochee Divide and Boogerman Loop Trail

Haywood County, North Carolina · star 4.3 (9) · 27.1 km · Est. 7 hrs 6 min

7

Medium

Shining Rock, Tennent Mountain, Investor Gap and Art Loed Loop Trail

Haywood County, North Carolina · star 4.8 (17) · 15.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 40 min

8

Medium

Art Loeb, Black Balsam Knob and Ivestor Gap Loop Trail

Haywood County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (23) · 7.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 57 min

9

Medium

Long Bunk - Little Cataloochee - Pretty Hollow Gap - Mount Sterling Loop Trail

Haywood County, North Carolina · star N/A (0) · 45.6 km · Est. 3 days

10

Difficult

Mount Sterling via Baxter Creek Trail

Haywood County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (16) · 19.5 km · Est. 6 hrs 1 min

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Reviews for backpacking hikes in Haywood County

Mathias Nielsen avatar

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - Davenport Gap to Max Patch Road

Mathias Nielsen · reviewed about 6 years ago

star star star star star

Eulalia Bernhard II avatar

Lower Walnut Bottom - Big Creek Trail

RoamerMountaineer71 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Big Creek, Swallow Fork and Gunter Fork Loop Trail.

Bruce Wyman Jr. avatar

Mount Sterling Trail, Pretty Hollow Gap Trail and Little Cataloochee Trail Loop

TrailNavigator77 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Rene Windler avatar

Big Creek Trail, Mount Sterling and Baxter Creek Trail Loop

SummithawkWanderer53 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Haywood 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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