Top 10 Hikes Near Sapphire, North Carolina

North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains are a hiker's paradise, offering an abundance of trails and breathtaking scenery. The towns of Sapphire, Glenville, Highlands, and Cashiers are located in the heart of this region and serve as a gateway to some of the most stunning hikes in the area. In this blog post, we'll explore the top 10 hikes near Sapphire, Glenville, Highlands, and Cashiers, NC.

1. Whiteside Mountain Trail: The Whiteside Mountain Trail is a popular hike located near Highlands, NC. The trail is a 2.7-mile loop that takes hikers to the top of Whiteside Mountain, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You'll want to choose a clear day for this one so you can truly appreciate the stunning views.

2. Panthertown Valley Trail: The Panthertown Valley Trail is a 6.2-mile loop located near Cashiers, NC. The trail winds through the lush Panthertown Valley, a wilderness area known for its waterfalls, rock formations, and wildlife. Be sure to take a map with you- it's easy to get lost!

3. Rainbow Falls Trail: The Rainbow Falls Trail is a 3.5-mile round trip hike located near Sapphire, NC. The trail leads to the stunning Rainbow Falls, a 150-foot waterfall that cascades over a sheer rock face. This trailhead is located within Gorges State Park.

4. The Bearwallow Mountain Trail: The Bearwallow Mountain Trail is a 1.7-mile round trip hike located near Sapphire, NC. The trail leads to the summit of Bearwallow Mountain, which offers panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

5. Gorges State Park: Gorges State Park is a 7,500-acre wilderness area located near Sapphire, NC. The park offers an amazing visitors center and a variety of hiking trails, including the 2.2-mile round trip Rainbow Falls Trail and the 2.5-mile round trip Turtleback Falls Trail. In addition, you can take the Bearwallow Falls Trail which is relatively short and much less strenuous than the Rainbow Falls option.

6. Dry Falls Trail: The Dry Falls Trail is a 0.5-mile round trip hike located near Highlands, NC. The paved trail leads to Dry Falls, a 65-foot waterfall that visitors can walk behind.

7. Whiteside Cove Road Trail: The Whiteside Cove Road Trail is a 5.3-mile round trip hike located near Cashiers, NC. The trail leads to the top of the 4,930-foot Little Green Mountain, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

8. High Falls Trail: The High Falls Trail is a 1.2-mile round trip hike located near Glenville, NC. The trail leads from the Lake Glenville dam, down to the base of High Falls, a 150-foot waterfall that cascades into a tranquil pool.

9. Yellow Mountain Trail: The Yellow Mountain Trail is a 4.5-mile round trip hike located near Highlands, NC. The trail leads to the summit of Yellow Mountain, which offers panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

10. The Devil's Courthouse Trail: The Devil's Courthouse Trail is a 0.9-mile round trip hike located near Sapphire, NC. The trail leads to the summit of Devil's Courthouse, a granite rock outcropping that offers 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains.

In conclusion, the Sapphire, Glenville, Highlands, and Cashiers area of North Carolina offers some of the most stunning hikes in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, these trails offer something for everyone. So grab your hiking boots, hit the trails, and experience the natural beauty of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains. For additional information on hiking and waterfalls, click here.