Asheville is a city in western North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and laid-back vibe. It is also home to some of the southeast’s top short trails, making it an ideal post-hike stop to grab a craft beer or indulgent dinner. These are the top 5 short day hikes within 40 miles of Asheville, North Carolina.

CONTENTS
00:00 Teaser Overview
00:58 #5 Sam Knob Trail
03:01 #4 Lookout Trail
05:20 #3 Catawba Falls
07:44 #2 The Craggies
10:14 Mt Mitchell Summit
11:46 #1 Triple & High Falls
14:15 Trail Comparison

#5 Sam Knob Trail, Pisgah National Forest
Sam Knob is a 6,000-foot peak just beyond the Blue Ridge Parkway and has exceptional summit views, including the nearby Devil’s Courthouse, Black Balsam Knob, and peaks in the Shining Rock Wilderness. Located about 37 miles from Asheville, this hike has beautiful grassy meadows that are adorned with wildflowers in the spring as well as the sweet scent of balsam fir the year-round.

#4 Lookout Trail, Montreat, North Carolina
The Lookout Trail can be found in the town of Montreat, just 18 miles from Asheville. This short trail has a moderate ascent that rewards hikers with summit rock outcroppings and views of the Seven Sisters of the Black Mountains. Autumn can be an especially beautiful time of year as colorful fall foliage fills the mountainside trees. The lookout at the top indeed makes the effort of the uphill climb worthwhile.

#3 Catawba Falls, Pisgah National Forest
The trailhead for Catawba Falls can be found just 28 miles east of Asheville. An out-and-back of under 2 ½ miles, this hike offers the stunning beauty of a cascading waterfall that drops over 100 feet in total. Two footbridges have been added over the years and now the area is temporarily closed until Spring of 2023 when more major trail improvements will be revealed.

#2 Craggy Pinnacle & Craggy Gardens, Blue Ridge Parkway
The Great Craggy Mountains are located just 20 miles northeast of Asheville. Referred to as “The Craggies”, this area includes these two popular trails with stunning views that can be easily reached from the Blue Ridge Parkway. The elevation rise and grassy balds make for impressive viewing of the surrounding mountains and valleys, especially when pink and purple Catawba rhododendron are in bloom from mid-June to July.

HM Mount Mitchell Summit Trail, Mount Mitchell State Park
The parking lot at the Mount Mitchell State Park can bring enthusiasts within a few hundred yards of the highest peak East of the Mississippi River. A paved path to an accessible overlook and spectacular views is great for those who may be challenged by traditional hiking.

#1 Triple Falls & High Falls, Dupont State Forest
Our top hike is located within the DuPont State Forest, just 40 miles south of Asheville. The forest is blessed with many stunningly beautiful waterfalls and consequently was used to shoot scenes from The Last of the Mohicans as well as The Hunger Games. Within a short 3 ½ mile hike, you can reach two incredible waterfall specimens as well as a picturesque covered bridge.
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