NC High Country Top 5 Winter Hikes
NC High Country Top 5 Winter Hikes: The winter can be a great time to hike in the NC Mountains along the Blue Ridge Parkway and in the North Carolina State Parks. The lack of humidity in the air and leaves on the trees can create endless crystal clear views. Sometimes you can have the trails all to yourself and you can hear the sounds of winter. Our criteria for a good winter hike are:
- Must have a well maintained trail, since trails can get muddy and slick under winter conditions
- Must have great view opportunities to take advantage of the clear winter air
- Must be open to take advantage of the winter sunshine:
ELK KNOB SUMMIT TRAIL
Where: Elk Knob State Park
Length: 1.9 miles
About: The trail was created in 2011 and is in great shape. It winds you to the summit of Elk Knob. Elk Knob itself is a rounded, east-west oriented ridge that tops out at 5,520' in elevation, making it one of the highest peaks of the Appalachians. You will be able to take in amazing views.
For more information, CLICK HERE
FLAT TOP MOUNTAIN TRAIL
Where: Moses Cone Park, Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 294
Length: 6 miles
About: This is a well maintained and wide carriage trail located at the Moses Cone Manor. The trail takes you to open fields and winds up to a 50 foot fire tower where you can take in great views of Boone and Blowing Rock.
Notes: If the weather has been icy, check to make sure the parkway gate is open to access the park before venturing out.
STONE MOUNTAIN LOOP TRAIL
Where: Stone Mountain State Park, Wilkesboro
Length: 4.5 miles
About: This trail features a great array of natural features. You will cross the top of stone mountain, pass a scenic waterfall and walk throug a restored family homestead.
For more information, CLICK HERE
BLUFF MOUNTAIN TRAIL
Where: Doughton Park, Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 238.5
Length: 7.5 miles
About: This trail takes you through beautiful rolling meadows, into a hemlock forest and back out to the edge of the Blue Ridge Escarpment with amazing views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
For more information, CLICK HERE
RICH MOUNTAIN TRAIL
Where: Moses Cone Park, Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 294
Length: 3.0 miles
About: This is a wide and well maintained horse trail that takes you to the top of Rich Mountain. You will walk around Trout Lake, meander through some cow pastures and get to enjoy some great views from the top of Rich Mountain.
