Recent Posts

A Complete Guide to Family-Friendly Activities in Blowing Rock

Jun 12, 2025

Blowing Rock, North Carolina, is the perfect destination for families seeking adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking natural beauty. Looking for the best family-friendly activities in Blowing Rock, NC? From thrilling aerial adventures and zip lines at High Gravity Adventures to scenic hiking trails, kid-friendly attractions, and sweet downtown treats, Blowing Rock…

Read More

The Best Time to Visit North Carolina

Jun 5, 2025

When is the best time to visit North Carolina? From sun-drenched coastlines to cool mountain peaks, North Carolina is one of the most geographically diverse states in the U.S. But knowing when to visit can shape your experience just as much as where you go. With each season offering distinct…

Read More

Best Family-Friendly Hiking In Boone, NC

May 9, 2025

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…

Read More

Top Places to Stay Near the Blue Ridge Mountains in NC

Apr 17, 2025

The Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina are a breathtaking destination for travelers looking to experience stunning vistas, outdoor adventure, and charming mountain towns. If you’re searching for the best spots in the Blue Ridge Mountains, where to stay can make all the difference in your trip. Whether you’re planning…

Read More

Local’s Choice: Top 5 Best Hiking Trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains

The Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina's High Country is a premier hiking and outdoor exploration destination. The region caters to adventurers of all skill levels, offering diverse trails, from serene walks along the Blue Ridge Parkway to challenging hikes up rugged mountains. The area is renowned for its stunning vistas, rich biodiversity, and unique geological features. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature photographer, or simply looking to be immersed in the great outdoors, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer unforgettable adventures.

Here's a quick glimpse of our local's choice hiking trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

  1. Linville Falls Trail
  2. Grandfather Mountain Profile Trail
  3. Elk Knob Summit Trail
  4. Flat Top Mountain Trail
  5. Stone Mountain Loop

Keep reading for our curated list of tips and tricks from locals who like to explore in the High Country.

Linville Falls Trail

Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous

The Linville Falls Trail is a must-visit for waterfall enthusiasts, offering spectacular views of the falls from multiple overlooks.

  • Duration: 1.6 miles round trip to the Lower Falls; various viewpoints along shorter loops
  • Trailhead Location: Linville Falls Visitor Center, Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 316.4
  • Sights: Majestic waterfalls, deep gorges, and the surrounding lush forest.
Grandfather Mountain

Grandfather Mountain Profile Trail

Difficulty: Strenuous

The Grandfather Mountain Profile Trail is a challenging trek that rewards hikers with panoramic views and diverse ecological wonders.

  • Duration: 7 miles round trip
  • Trailhead Location: NC Highway 105, 12 miles north of Linville
  • Sights: Dense forest canopies, incredible vistas, and rugged rocky outcroppings.

Elk Knob Summit Trail

Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous

The Elk Knob Summit Trail is a perfect for those seeking solitude and stunning scenic vistas.

  • Duration: 4 miles round trip
  • Trailhead Location: Elk Knob State Park, near Todd, NC
  • Sights: Lush forest, panoramic views, one of the highest summits in North Carolina's High Country.
Hiking Blue Ridge Mountains

Flat Top Mountain Trail

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

The Flat Top Mountain Trail is one of many at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and is ideal for families and casual hikers, with a gently sloping path and scenic stops.

  • Duration: 5 miles round trip
  • Trailhead Location: Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 294
  • Sights: Historic manor, picturesque meadows, and a fire tower at the summit offering expansive views.

Stone Mountain Loop

Difficulty: Moderate

The Stone Mountain Loop is one of several at Stone Mountain State Park offering a well-rounded adventure with historical sites, a cascading waterfall, and massive granite dome views.

  • Duration: 4.5 miles loop
  • Trailhead Location: Stone Mountain State Park, Roaring Gap, NC
  • Sights: A 200-foot waterfall, a massive granite dome, and remnants of a 19th-century homestead.

These are just a handful of the extensive trails that wind through the Blue Ridge Mountains. No matter where you hike, consider stopping at High Gravity Adventures to elevate your mountain experience on a Boone Boone zip line tour, aerial park adventure, or free fall on the giant swing. Let the Blue Ridge Mountains be the backdrop to an unforgettable adventure both on the trails and in the air, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Find more information on the Blue Ridge Parkway and planning a trip to Boone on our blog.

Andrew Miller