High Country Hiking: 8 Must-Do Trails Across Wilkesboro, West Jefferson, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Boone & Lenoir

The majestic mountains of Western North Carolina are a dream come true for outdoor enthusiasts. With charming towns like Wilkesboro, West Jefferson, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Boone, and Lenoir nestled amidst breathtaking scenery, you'll find an incredible array of trails, from gentle greenways to challenging summit climbs. Lace up your boots, because here are eight must-do hikes to explore the diverse beauty of this incredible region!

1. Rendezvous Mountain Educational State Forest (Wilkesboro Area)

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Length: Up to 5.5 miles of trails

For a unique blend of nature and education right in Wilkes County, head to Rendezvous Mountain Educational State Forest. This beautiful forest environment offers a series of well-marked trails that allow you to explore magnificent mountain hardwoods. You'll find exhibits and displays along the way, teaching you about the ecology of the mountain. With varying trail lengths and terrains, it's a fantastic spot for a family outing or a peaceful forest stroll. The "Amadehy Waterfalls and Rendezvous Mountain Ridge Loop Trail" offers a good taste of what the park has to offer.

2. Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail (W. Kerr Scott Dam & Reservoir, Wilkesboro Area)

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Length: Approximately 6 miles (W. Kerr Scott segment)

Step back in history on a segment of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, accessible from the W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir near Wilkesboro. This trail follows the historic route of the "Overmountain Men" during the Revolutionary War. The section around the reservoir offers pleasant hiking with views of the lake, abundant wildlife, and mixed hardwood forests. It's a relatively flat and well-maintained path, perfect for a longer walk or run, immersing yourself in both nature and American history.

3. Mount Jefferson State Natural Area (West Jefferson Area)

Difficulty: Easy to Strenuous (Varies by trail) Length: Multiple trails ranging from 0.3 to 2 miles one-way

Dominating the skyline above West Jefferson, Mount Jefferson State Natural Area is a hidden gem with incredible panoramic views. You can drive most of the way up, then choose from several well-maintained trails at the top. The Summit Trail (0.3 miles one-way) leads to the peak with breathtaking vistas. The Rhododendron Trail (1.1-mile loop) and Lost Province Trail (0.75-mile loop) offer different perspectives and diverse plant life. It's an excellent spot for a quick, rewarding hike or a longer exploration, providing unmatched views of Ashe County and beyond.

4. Rough Ridge Overlook Trail (Blowing Rock/Boone Area)

Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous Length: Approximately 0.8 miles to the main view (out-and-back)

An iconic hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Rough Ridge Overlook Trail delivers stunning, postcard-perfect views with a relatively short climb. Marvel at the Linn Cove Viaduct winding through the mountains and the grandeur of Grandfather Mountain. While the path involves some rocky sections, strategically placed boardwalks make for easier navigation and offer prime photo opportunities. It's especially magical at sunrise or sunset.

5. Boone Fork Trail (Boone/Blowing Rock Area)

Difficulty: Moderate Length: Approximately 5.2-mile loop

Accessible from the Julian Price Picnic Area, the Boone Fork Trail is a High Country favorite for its incredible variety. This beautiful loop winds through serene meadows, crosses babbling streams, and passes charming cascades. You'll experience the quintessential beauty of the Blue Ridge, making it a truly immersive journey through diverse landscapes.

6. Flat Top Fire Tower Trail (Blowing Rock/Boone Area)

Difficulty: Moderate Length: Approximately 5.6 miles round trip

Part of the expansive Moses Cone Memorial Park, the Flat Top Fire Tower Trail is a must for those who love panoramic views. Following a wide, well-maintained carriage road, the ascent is gradual but steady. The reward at the top is a historic fire tower, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Blowing Rock, Boone, and the endless layers of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

7. Elk River Falls (Banner Elk Area)

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Length: Approximately 0.7 miles round trip

Just a short drive from Banner Elk, Elk River Falls is a spectacular 50-foot waterfall that plunges into a refreshing swimming hole. The trail is short and relatively easy, making it accessible for most visitors. It's a popular spot to cool off on a warm day and offers fantastic photographic opportunities of the powerful falls and surrounding natural beauty. While swimming is popular, always exercise caution and respect the power of the water.

8. Harper Creek Falls (Lenoir Area - Wilson Creek Wilderness)

Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous Length: Varies depending on route; often done as part of a 4-5 mile loop

For a more rugged and rewarding waterfall adventure, head into the Wild and Scenic Wilson Creek Wilderness area near Lenoir to find Harper Creek Falls. This area is known for its pristine waters and stunning cascades. The trail to Harper Creek Falls can be challenging, involving some stream crossings and navigating uneven terrain, but the multi-tiered waterfall is a magnificent reward. This is a true wilderness experience, so be prepared with proper footwear and navigation.

Pair Your Hikes with a Rejuvenating Foot Soak from The Care Collective!

When you're in the High Country and you're here to hike, after the first, second, or certainly after the third hike, your feet are calling out to you from those shoes – "Wow, we could use a massage!" That's where The Care Collective in Boone comes in.

Located at 584 State Farm Road, Suite 104, Boone, NC 28607, The Care Collective offers foot soaks that are the perfect thing for your tired, sore feet so you can keep on hiking! Their specialized foot soak experiences go beyond a simple soak, often including focused massage from the knee down, incorporating steam, hot stones, and warm towels. You can choose from various herbal infusions designed to relax, nourish, relieve pain, or balance your body. It's the ultimate way to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and promote deep relaxation, ensuring your feet are ready for the next adventure.

So, embark on your High Country hiking adventures, and then treat yourself to the ultimate relaxation at The Care Collective – your body (and especially your feet!) will thank you!