5 Hard Core Hikes

If you’re a serious hiker looking for more advanced trails, explore these popular challenging trails near Highlands.

Nantahala Yellow Mountain Trail

Enjoy this 11.7-mile out-and-back trail near Highlands, North Carolina. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 28 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and running, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. For more information and directions click HERE.

Yellow Mountain

Discover this 2.2-mile out-and-back trail near Highlands, North Carolina. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 25 min to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. For more information and directions click HERE.

Crane Creek Falls

Discover this 1.9-mile out-and-back trail near Highlands, North Carolina. Generally considered a challenging route. This trail is great for hiking, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome and may be off leash in some areas. For more information and directions click HERE.

Bartrum Trail

Check out this 14.3-mile point-to-point trail near Highlands, North Carolina. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 8 h 3 min to complete. This trail is great for backpacking, camping, and hiking, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring. For more information and directions click HERE.

Blue Valley

Discover this 18.1-mile out-and-back trail near Highlands, North Carolina. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 7 h 9 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and mountain biking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are March through October. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. For more information and directions click HERE.