Guide to Nantahala Hiking Trails

Once you've settled into your stayNantahala cabin, you may be wondering what to do next. Fortunately, hiking is a simple activity offering a great way to experience the beauty of western North Carolina. All it takes is some good shoes and a knowledge of some nearby North Carolina hiking trails.

While we can't do much about the shoes, we're here to help with some excellent Nantahala hiking trails. Our guide will feature several trails around Nantahala Lake, including portions of the Appalachian Trail and Bartram Trail portions in North Carolina.

Siler Bald via Appalachian Trail

Trailhead: Wayah Gap Picnic Area, just off State Route 1310 about 8 miles east of Nantahala Lake
Type: Out and Back
Length: 5.1 miles
Skill Level: Moderate

The scenic Appalachian Trail runs from northern Georgia to Maine. A portion of it runs just east of Nantahala Lake and provides various sections to explore. This trail takes you up to Siler Bald, gaining 1,112 feet of elevation in the process. There is plenty of nature to see along the way to the 5,161-foot summit.

Wayah Bald via Appalachian Trail

Trailhead: Wayah Gap Picnic Area, just off State Route 1310 about 8 miles east of Nantahala Lake
Type: Out and Back
Length 8.6 miles
Skill Level: Moderate

This trail picks up where the Siler Bald portion left off. Head north to Wayah Bald, skirting around Wine Spring Bald in the process. There is a detour to visit Wine Spring Bald as well as turnoffs to other trails including Bartram Trail. You'll gain 2,014 feet in elevation along this trail and get a breathtaking view of the beauty of the Nantahala National Forest.

Image may be subject to copyright

Wayah Gap to Murphy Road

Trailhead: Wayah Gap Picnic Area, just off State Route 1310 about 8 miles east of Nantahala Lake
Type: Point to Point
Length 4.8 miles
Skill Level: Moderate

You won't have to deal with much traffic on this trail that takes you into the Nantahala National Forest as you make your way to U.S. Highway 64. This hike will take you by several mountain balds and features an elevation gain of 954 feet. Road biking does happen on this trail and dogs can use it as well. This is one of the best hikes in Nantahala National Forest.

Image may be subject to copyright

Appalachian Trail: Wayah Bald to Tellico Gap

Trailhead: Wayah Bald. From Wayah Gap Picnic Area, follow National Forest Road to Wayah Bald.
Type: Point to Point
Length: 6.9 miles
Skill Level: Hard

Continue along the Appalachian Trail with this more challenging section. You can drive up to Wayah Bald and take the trail to Tellico Bald. There is a parking area at the end of this portion on state route 1365. This idyllic trail offers some great North Carolina scenery, making it ideal for hiking in Nantahala National Forest. You'll also get great views of Wayah and Wesser balds.

Bartram Trail: Wayah Bald to Nantahala Lake

Trailhead: Near Lakes End Cafe & Grill along Wayah Road
Type: Point to Point
Length: 7.4 miles
Skill Level: Moderate

Bartram Trail is an extensive path that runs through Georgia and North Carolina. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has broken it into seven sections. This portion runs from the eastern edge of Nantahala Lake to Wayah Bald. It passes both Jarrett Bald and Sawmill Gap before joining with the Appalachian Trail en route to Wayah Bald. Bartram Trail is a great way to see what Nantahala hiking is all about.

Bartram Trail: Nantahala Lake to Nantahala River Gorge

Trailhead: Near Lakes End Cafe & Grill along Wayah Road
Type: Point to Point
Length: 16.5 miles
Skill Level: Moderate

This portion of the Bartram Trail will skirt the northern edge of Nantahala Lake before heading north to the Nantahala River Gorge. Along the way, you'll see wildflowers and a host of other activities. This portion also runs along the Nantahala River and ends at the Nantahala River Launch Site just before U.S. Highway 74. If you're looking for one of the best hikes in western North Carolina, the Bartram Trail has you covered.

Ready to Book Your Stay?

BOOK NOW