Best Family-Friendly Hiking In Boone, NC

Boone, North Carolina is an unforgettable destination for families who love the outdoors. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this charming town offers breathtaking scenery, cool mountain air, and endless opportunities to connect with nature.

Whether you're looking to stretch your legs on a peaceful stroll or embark on a fun family adventure, there's plenty of hiking trails in Boone to choose from.

A quick note before heading out: Many local trails have reopened following the impacts of Hurricane Helene. That said, trail conditions can still vary, and some may have lingering debris or downed trees. Before heading for the trailhead, check the current trail status with the managing park or agency, and be prepared to navigate an obstacle or two.

Best Hiking in Boone for Families

1. Greenway Trail (Boone)

Difficulty: Easy | Length: 3.5 miles (various loops) | Drive Time from Boone: In-town

This paved trail weaves through Boone along the South Fork of the New River. Great for walking, running, biking, and strollers, the Greenway features bridges, river overlooks, and forested sections that can make it feel far from town, even though you're right in the middle of it. 

2. Brookshire Park (Boone)

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | Length: 2 miles (main loop + ridge trail) with access to longer routes | Drive Time from Boone: In-town

Brookshire Park offers a mix of open green space and riverside trails. The flat, paved main trail runs about a mile alongside the river and connects directly to the Boone Greenway via an underpass beneath US 421. For a bit more challenge, a one-mile ridge trail branches off through the woods with moderate elevation gain and rewarding mountain views. Brookshire Park Features a picnic shelter, public restrooms, and is a local hotspot for birdwatching—especially in spring and fall.

3. Goshen River Trail (Boone)

Difficulty: Moderate| Length: 3.1 miles out and back  | Drive Time from Boone: 10 minutes

Part of the Mountains-to-Sea Long Distance Trail that stretches from the Great Smoky Mountains to the North Carolina coast, the Goshen River Trail offers a serene, shaded hike through rhododendron tunnels and hardwood forests alongside Goshen Creek. Beginning near Bamboo Road, hikers navigate rocky sections, creek crossings, and a steady incline. Wildflowers like trillium and trout lilies bloom in spring, and the soothing sounds of the creek accompany you throughout. Despite some occasional road noise from the Blue Ridge Parkway (which it parallels) the Goshen River Trial provides an escape into nature, just a short drive from downtown Boone.

4. Elk Knob Summit Trail (Todd)

Difficulty: Moderate | Length: 3.8 miles out and back | Drive Time from Boone: 20 minutes

Perfect for families with older kids or active hikers, the Elk Knob Summit Trail offers a rewarding mountain adventure. This well-built trail winds gently uphill through hardwood forests using long switchbacks and stone steps, making the steady climb (977 ft. elevation gain)  manageable for most. At the summit, you’re treated to sweeping views that stretch across North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia on clear days. Benches along the way provide rest spots, and the cooler temperatures at higher elevation make it a great summer hike.

5. Bass Lake Loop  (Blowing Rock)

Difficulty: Easy | Length: ~0.9 miles loop | Drive Time from Boone: ~15 minutes

The Bass Lake Loop is a flat, 0.9-mile gravel path that encircles the tranquil Bass Lake within Moses H. Cone Memorial Park. Its smooth surface is stroller-friendly, making it ideal for a gentle, scenic walk. Along the trail, you'll find benches for enjoying views of the lake and the historic Flat Top Manor perched above. The trail is lined with rhododendron and mountain laurel, and it's common to spot ducks, deer, and other wildlife. Restrooms are available at the parking area, and leashed dogs are welcome. For those looking to extend their adventure, the loop connects to a broader network of carriage trails stretching 25 miles throughout the park.