Best Hikes in Nantahala National Forest (NC)

Nantahala National Forest Overview

Nantahala National Forest is the largest of 4 national forests in North Carolina covering over 530,000 acres. The forest is divided into three Districts, Cheoah in Robbinsville, NC, Tusquitee in Murphy, NC, and the Nantahala in Franklin, NC. Nantahala is a Cherokee word meaning “land of the noonday sun”. Below, the best hikes in Nantahala National Forest are described in more detail!

StateNorth Carolina
Nearest Metro AreaGatlinburg, TN
Area Size531,148 acres
EstablishedFebruary 6, 1907
Hiking Trails 600 miles

Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Best Hikes in Nantahala National Forest

Devils Courthouse Trail – 1.0 mile out and back
Devil’s Courthouse, Photo by Warren LeMay

Very short trail to the summit with panoramic views of NC, SC, GA, and TN.

Dry Falls Trail – 0.3 miles out and back
Dry Falls, Mountain Waters Scenic Byway, Near Highlands, North Carolina
Dry Falls, Photo by Ken Lund

Short trail that goes down to a beautiful waterfall and then back up; good for all skill levels.

Glen Falls Trail #8 – 1.6 miles out and back

Short hike to 3 separate waterfall overlooks that can be enjoyed by the entire family.

Panthertown Loop*** – 5.5 mile loop
Panthertown Panorama.
Panthertown Panorama, Photo by Josh Tremper

The Panthertown Valley is known as the ‘Yosemite of the East’ and has several circuit trails in the area worthy of hiking. Combining Mac’s Gap, Little Green, and Panthertown Valley Trails make for a tremendous loop with beautiful waterfalls and vantage points along the way.

The Pinnacle Trail*** – 7.4 mile loop

Challenging and rewarding hike up with gorgeous views at the top of Pinnacle Park; this trial is unmaintained and not managed by Nantahala National Forest.

Waterrock Knob Trail – 1.0 miles out and back
The Forever Sky
From the Waterrock Knob overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Photo by Wes Hill

Just off of the Blue Ridge Parkway, this is a short but steep hike to the top of Waterrock Knob that has incredible long-distance views.

Whiteside Mountain Trail*** – 2.0 mile loop
Whiteside Mountain cliffs
Whiteside Mountains Cliff, Photo by Thomson20192

Fairly moderate trail that climbs to the top of 750’ high cliffs offering scenic views all around. Whiteside mountain is a landmark spot along the Eastern Continental Divide.

Yellow Mountain Trail #5*** – 12.4 miles out and back

Gradual climb up switchbacks to the top of Yellow Mountain where a historic fire tower awaits with breathtaking views.

Featured Image: View from Whiteside Mountain, Photo by WNCOutdoors.info

Don’t forget to stock up on the essentials before you plan your next hiking or camping trip! We have recommendations on:
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