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Best backpacking hikes in Jackson County
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Best backpacking hikes in Jackson 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 Jackson County.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

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

Jackson County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (23) · 8.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 11 min

2

Medium

Buckeye Gap, Middle Prong and Haywood Gap Loop Trail

Jackson County, North Carolina · star 4.4 (14) · 18.1 km · Est. 4 hrs 40 min

3

Medium

Wilderness Falls, Granny Burrell Falls, Little Green Mountain and Panthertown Valley Loop Trail

Jackson County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (21) · 13.3 km · Est. 3 hrs 12 min

4

Easy

Panthertown Valley, Granny Burrell Falls and Great Wall Loop Trail

Jackson County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (27) · 12.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 59 min

5

Medium

Ellicott Rock Connector and Ellicotts Rock Trail

Jackson County, North Carolina · star 4.7 (20) · 10.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 36 min

6

Medium

Whitewater River - Foothills Trail

Jackson County, North Carolina · star 4.7 (19) · 7.9 km · Est. 2 hrs 2 min

7

Medium

Grassy Knob and Medlin Mountain via Foothills Trail

Jackson County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (21) · 18.5 km · Est. 4 hrs 51 min

8

Medium

Round Mountain Gap and Foothills Trail

Jackson County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (21) · 15.3 km · Est. 3 hrs 59 min

9

Difficult

Plott Balsam via Waterrock Knob Trail

Jackson County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (25) · 13.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 17 min

10

Difficult

The Pinnacle, Blackrock Mountain and Yellow Face from Blue Ridge Parkway

Jackson County, North Carolina · star 4.5 (15) · 17.5 km · Est. 4 hrs 58 min

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Reviews for backpacking hikes in Jackson County

Ira Windler avatar

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

FernNaturelover59 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Breann Swift VM avatar

Buckeye Gap, Middle Prong and Haywood Gap Loop Trail

TundraTrailmaster35 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Prof. Ollie Brakus avatar

Wilderness Falls, Granny Burrell Falls, Little Green Mountain and Panthertown Valley Loop Trail

RangeOutfitter77 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Timothy Borer avatar

Panthertown Valley, Granny Burrell Falls and Great Wall Loop Trail

EchoTraveler22 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Claudio O'Keefe avatar

Ellicott Rock Connector and Ellicotts Rock Trail

WildHavenranger52 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Jackson 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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