Run to the hills: Some of our favorite trails in WNC
Western North Carolina is a bastion for outdoor recreation, especially when it comes to trail running and hiking. Garret K. Woodward photo
In this day and age, when the world seems to be one chaotic situation after another, all while the incessant white noise and constant distraction in the digital age peels away our sanity, I find a genuine urge to head for the mountains and hit the trails. So, I do so, happily.
For myself — someone who has been a runner since I was 12 years old (40 now) and also currently has a daily running streak going back to Dec. 31, 2015 — much of the magic I find in my jogs and trots is seamlessly conjured on the trails and in the backwoods of Western North Carolina. It’s my favorite disappearing act from society.
Beyond hearing from other runners/hikers about where to go and also simply stumbling upon spaces and places in my own travels around our backyard of Southern Appalachia, I also rely on my AllTrails app on my smartphone. You can also use their website, alltrails.com. I highly recommend AllTrails. It’s become a tangible and intrinsic compass for my wandering and pondering.
Below are a handful of my favorite local spots to run/hike. These are places I’ve tossed on the trail shoes and found inner peace on countless occasions, moments of solitude where I’m continually reminded of not only the beauty of the natural world, but also of one’s body in motion, too.
HAYWOOD COUNTY: Mount Sterling (via Mount Sterling Gap)
• The lowdown: It’s a 5.3-mile out-and-back with 1,942 feet of elevation gain. Considered a moderate/hard trail for most. Moderate, in general, for more experienced hikers and trail runners. Trail ends at a fire tower that you can access with incredible views.
• What I like about it: This is easily one of the “best bang for your buck” hikes anywhere in the park. The added bonus is the serene, steady drive to the trailhead via the Old Cataloochee Turnpike road that you can access from either Cataloochee Valley or the Big Creek intersection into the park.
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• Post-hike: Valley Tavern. Right on Soco Road in the heart of Maggie Valley, the sports bar/restaurant is situated along a babbling creek, ideal for a late lunch and beverage. And there’s usually live music on the weekends underneath the outdoor pavilion.
JACKSON COUNTY: Pinnacle Trail
• The lowdown: This is a 7.7-mile moderate/hard hike with 2,457 feet of elevation gain. Pinnacle can be frustrating for many due to the fact the trail is a seemingly constant hike with no real flat spots, but the 360-degree views at the top are stunning.
• What I like about it: Beyond the views of Sylva and greater Jackson County, I dig the deceiving nature of the summit. You end up in this brush area, only to discover this little opening in the brush. Pop down into it and then emerge into the spectacular views.
• Post-hike: Innovation Brewing. Also located next to a soothing creek in downtown Sylva, the property features the Cosmic Carry-Out food truck. My go-to is the “Blast Off Burger.” Arguably the finest burger in our area. Don’t forget the fresh-cut fries.
MACON COUNTY: Appalachian Trail (Rocky Bald via Tellico Gap)
• The lowdown: Sitting at 3.7 miles roundtrip with a 1,260-foot elevation gain, this trail is pretty moderate and very enjoyable.
• What I like about it: The drive alone to get out to Tellico Gap is stunning (make sure you have four-wheel drive, just in case). And though nearby Wesser Bald gets all the notoriety (with its fire tower), Rocky Bald offers incredible views with little to no people in passing.
• Post-hike: Yonder Community Market. On the outskirts of downtown Franklin, the organic grocery store is packed with all kinds of delicious cheeses, meats and beverages to enjoy at one of the picnic tables underneath the shade of the tall oak trees on the side lawn.
SWAIN COUNTY: Tsali Recreation Area
• The lowdown: The trail running mecca of Western North Carolina. The four-trail loop system offers seemingly miles of exploration. Easy-to-moderate single-track trails, ideal for getting in steady, long mileage. To note, runners have full access to all trails on all days, whereas mountain bikers and horseback riders have rotating days of trail use.
• What I like about it: It’s Tsali. What more do you want as a runner?
• Post-hike: Nantahala Outdoor Center. Smack dab in the Nantahala Gorge just west of Bryson City, the NOC is home to a world-class whitewater center, restaurants and an array of onsite activities. To note, the Appalachian Trail goes right through the NOC.
MADISON COUNTY: Appalachian Trail (Rich Mountain Tower)
• The lowdown: Just outside of downtown Hot Springs, this 5.2-mile out and back offers 1,446 feet of elevation gain. It’s a moderate hike and well-worth the view at the top at the fire tower.
• What I like about it: Whether you’re heading up to the trailhead from Waynesville or via Marshall, the drive itself is enjoyable when done at your own pace. Once you’re on the trail itself, you truly start to understand and immerse yourself in the splendor and lore of the AT.
• Post-hike: Big Pillow Brewing. With a picturesque beer garden and large outdoor stage, the brewery is the social beehive for the small mountain town of Hot Springs. Add into that, the popular Grey Eagle Taqueria also has a satellite spot onsite at Big Pillow.
TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY: Pink Beds Trail
• The lowdown: It’s a 5.2-mile loop with 331 feet of elevation gain. This is considered an easy-to-moderate trail for runners and hikers. To note, make sure to pay attention to the trail signs that split the main loop into the smaller loop.
• What I like about it: I find that my enjoyment of Pink Beds comes from the lack of elevation gain versus the number of miles you can complete, which means you can hold a steady pace and find an ideal rhythm throughout the trek.
• Post-hike: 185 King Street. A cultural hub in Brevard, the music venue hosts events every single night, not to mention offering a food menu with a slew of delicious options. The taproom also features a wide selection from Noblebrau Brewing, which is located next door.
