Wildcat Rock TrailTemporarily closed
A longtime local favorite that's still closed after Helene damage, with no reopening date announced yet. we'll flip this the moment it's back open.
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Hikes & Nature
Mount Mitchell State Park
Locals’ pickThe highest point east of the Mississippi, with an observation deck you can nearly drive right up to. It's about an hour out, but standing up there once is worth every mile. Pack a layer, it's colder at the top than you'd guess.
Address
Blue Ridge Parkway MP 355, Burnsville, NC
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Hikes & Nature
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More hikes & nature
Strawberry Gap Trailhead Locals’ pick
This is the quiet local's hike, a steady climb up to a ridge with a real lookout at the top. Leave the dog at home, it's not dog-friendly. You'll likely have the view mostly to yourself.
Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center
An easy loop hike that's dog-friendly and about as low-stress as trails get. It's a good one when you want fresh air without committing to a real climb. The center itself is worth a quick stop for maps and Parkway intel.