The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Avery County

Embark on the Tanawha Trail, a challenging 14.7 miles (23.6 km) hike that winds along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. You'll gain 1197 feet (365 metres) in elevation, traversing diverse landscapes from dense rhododendron thickets to ancient hardwood coves. Expect to spend around 8 hours and 13 minutes on this route, encountering boulder fields and cascading streams, with memorable views of the Linn Cove Viaduct as you pass beneath it.

Planning your visit requires some preparation for this difficult trail. While many sections are moderate, be ready for strenuous climbs and rocky scrambles, particularly above the Linn Cove Viaduct and along Rough Ridge. You can access the trail from various points along the Blue Ridge Parkway, allowing you to choose shorter segments if you prefer. Always plan your route carefully to match your fitness level and available time.

The Tanawha Trail offers a unique journey through a rich ecosystem, showcasing mountain-heather environments and providing expansive panoramas into the Piedmont region from spots like Rough Ridge Lookout. This trail is a significant part of the Blue Ridge experience, connecting you directly with the natural beauty and geological features of the area.

The Jones Falls and Splash Dam Falls from Elk River Falls trail offers a delightful journey through the Pisgah National Forest, showcasing a trio of waterfalls. You'll start with the powerful Elk River Falls, then follow a path that winds alongside a creek, through varied terrain with potential wildflowers, leading to the more secluded and taller Jones Falls. The experience is a mix of popular accessibility and serene forest exploration.

This easy 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hiking route involves just 237 feet (72 metres) of elevation gain, making it achievable in about 1 hour and 14 minutes. The trailhead is at the popular Elk River Falls parking area; plan to arrive early, especially in warmer months, to ensure a spot. No specific permits are required for this hike.

What's particularly interesting about this route is that it allows you to experience a portion of the iconic Appalachian Trail as you make your way to Jones Falls. While Elk River Falls is a well-known swimming spot, Jones Falls offers a more tranquil setting, and Splash Dam Falls, though smaller, provides another beautiful destination for those looking to extend their waterfall quest.

Embark on a moderate hike along Rough Ridge, a 2.0 miles (3.2 km) route that offers a rewarding experience in just 1 hours and 9 minutes. You will gain 406 feet (124 metres) in elevation, transitioning from a paved path to rugged dirt. As you ascend, the trail features slanted rock steps, large roots, and significant boulders, winding through woodlands and dense thickets of mountain laurel. Wooden boardwalks protect the fragile plant life, especially vibrant during fall foliage, leading you towards expansive views.

Your adventure begins at the Linn Cove Viaduct Visitor Center, located at Milepost 304.4, where convenient parking is available. While the initial section of the trail is quite easy, prepare for strenuous climbs over rocky, root-laden paths as you get closer to Rough Ridge. Sturdy footwear is highly recommended to navigate the varied terrain safely. Always remember to stay on the marked trails to help protect the delicate ecosystems you are exploring.

This trail is notable for its stunning panoramic views of the iconic Linn Cove Viaduct, Grandfather Mountain, and the vast Linville Gorge. It provides a unique opportunity to experience the diverse landscape of the Blue Ridge Parkway, showcasing both its natural beauty and engineering marvels. The combination of accessible starting points and challenging sections makes it a popular choice for those seeking both scenic beauty and a good workout.

Embark on a brief but rewarding hike along the Linn Cove Viaduct via Tanawha Trail, a moderate route that guides you beneath an impressive engineering marvel. This short trail, spanning just 0.5 miles (0.8 km), offers a unique perspective of the iconic Linn Cove Viaduct. You will experience a gentle ascent of 74 feet (23 metres) through diverse landscapes, from lush hardwood forests to rocky sections, all within an estimated 15 minutes.

Accessing the trail is straightforward, with parking generally available at designated points along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. The Tanawha Trail is known for its accessibility, allowing you to easily join or leave the path at various points, making it simple to tailor your hiking experience. This particular section is perfect if you are looking for a quick outdoor excursion without a long commitment.

This segment of the Tanawha Trail is notable for its direct interaction with the Linn Cove Viaduct, an engineering feat specifically designed to safeguard the delicate ecosystem of Grandfather Mountain. The route provides exceptional photo opportunities of the viaduct itself, showcasing its intricate design. While this specific hike is short, it offers a glimpse into the broader Tanawha Trail, which features diverse sections and, from higher points, even offers views across four states on clear days.