The Appalachian Mountains stretch from Pennsylvania to Georgia – quite an impressive range! Those who live in and around those states and are within driving distance of the Appalachians will find plenty of local hiking spots for themselves. But with so much ground to cover, how could you know where to go for the most scenic views, breathtaking nature, and panoramic vistas? In this article, we took it upon ourselves to synthesize a list of the best of the best hiking trails in the Appalachian Mountains. Come along with us while we deep dive into all of the best trails!
Best Hiking Trails in the Appalachian Mountains
If you live close by, we hope that the list we presented below will never have you searching for the “best hiking trails near me” in order to seek out adventure. What we’ve compiled below are the trails and sections in the Appalachian region that offer the most exceptional hiking experiences.
A quick note first, though. The Appalachian Mountains span such a long distance that it’s impossible to determine a definitive list of 10 of the most scenic trails. Treat this list as a well-researched suggestion and feel free to disagree – there are plenty of options we truly wanted to include on this list but simply couldn’t fit them!
Roan Highlands
Straddling the North Carolina-Tennessee border, the Roan Highlands offer one of the most stunning sections of the Appalachian Trail. This stretch is famous for its rolling grassy balds, panoramic mountain views, and lush greenery, particularly in the summer. Given the elevation, the hike provides a unique opportunity to look out over the horizon way above the treeline, making it a must-visit for photographers especially.
Grayson Highlands and Mount Rogers
Home to Virginia’s highest peak, this area is beloved for its wild ponies, rocky outcrops, and expansive meadows. While practicing animal safety on the trail is always paramount, the other two noteworthy features can be enjoyed with as much bewilderment as your heart desires. With its mix of forested paths and rugged terrain, it truly is one of the most rewarding hikes in the Appalachians.
Virginia Triple Crown
Combining the three signature parts of the Appalachian Trail that form the Triple Crown – the Dragon’s Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs – is certainly a challenge, but you can be sure as shooting that the sweeping valley views you’ll encounter will take your breath away.
Clingmans Dome
The highest point on the Appalachian Trail. Clingmans Dome offers unparalleled 360-degree views from the observation tower, and getting there won’t take you too long. It’s a perfect spot for hikers seeking a rewarding view without an extended trek. If you’re lucky and get good visibility, on clear days, you’ll be able to witness the Smokies in all of their mountainous glory!
Mount Le Conte
To pair another peak with Clingmans Dome, Mount LeConte comes in at just a little over 6,500 feet in height, slightly less than its bigger brother. The hike features rock formations, lush forests, and some of the most dramatic overlooks in the region. Plus, you can adjust the difficulty to your needs, as there are several trails that lead to the top.
Shenandoah National Park
With over 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail winding through it, Shenandoah NP is a hiker’s paradise. The park features well-maintained trails, abundant wildlife, and scenic viewpoints, including the stunning Skyline Drive overlooks. Its relatively gentle terrain makes it a great option for hikers of all experience levels.
Baxter State Park
Circling back to the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail we have Baxter State Park, home to Mount Katahdin. It offers one of the most challenging hikes in the East up to the Katahdin’s Knife’s Edge. And, while the difficulty does require solid preparation (better pick the right hiking boots!), the jaw-dropping views at the tail end of the AT will burn themselves into your memory for years.
Bear Mountain State Park
As one of the earliest developed sections of the Appalachian Trail, Bear Mountain offers hikers scenic views of the Hudson and a mix of forested and rocky terrain. Speaking of history, you’ll also find the signature stone tower at the summit and even a zoo that the AT passes through. For fans of unique and varied experiences, this is a must-visit.
Nantahala Gorge
In terms of variety, this North Carolina stretch equally doesn’t disappoint. Deep gorges, running rivers, and lush forests – whatever you’d like to feast your eyes on, you’ll probably find it in Nantahala Gorge! Plus, the plentiful serpentine rivers of the region make for a great whitewater rafting and kayaking trip, too.
Art Loeb Trail
This one is a favorite for the more seasoned hikers. The Art Loeb Trail traverses through stunning ridgeline views and high-altitude balds across the 30-mile stretch. It crosses over Black Balsam Knob and Tennent Mountain, offering some of the most breathtaking scenery in NC.
The Takeaway
If you’ve not been inspired to take up your hiking gear and rush out the door, hopefully, you are now. There are some incredibly rewarding and equally breathtaking views out there that are waiting for you to take them in and appreciate the beauty of the natural world. We hope that you find this guide useful in pointing you in the direction of your next unforgettable adventure!
You may also read: Exploring the Best Campsites Along the Appalachian Trail