Highlands is a small mountain village where making the most of every moment happens naturally. Creativity flows from the surrounding nature and through the local shops, galleries, theatres and festivals. A cultural center for well-known artists, musicians, authors, photographers, and scientists is where history, tradition and individuality are prized. Surrounded by mountain peaks home to 10,000 species of plants and animals, it’s a sanctuary. Visitors and residents alike revel in the natural beauty, engaging in activities like hiking, fishing and exploring waterfalls. Whether you’re exploring the trails or the Main Street shops, Highlands provides a unique and memorable escape. Experience the “Height of Happiness” at 4,118 feet in Highlands.
in the Highlands Area
Highlands offers a myriad of diverse trail-focused experiences. Explore celestial wonders on the Night Sky Trail or admire art on the Bascom Sculpture Trail. Wander through Highlands Botanical Gardens or navigate the Highlands Plateau Greenway. Discover magnificent waterfalls like Bridal Veil, Bust Your Butt, Cullasaja, Dry Falls and Glen Falls. Hike the scenic Bartram Trail, Chattooga Loop, Chinquapin Mountain and many more. Enjoy breathtaking views from Sunset Rock and Whiteside Mountain. Embrace the cultural richness on the Blue Ridge Music Trail and NC Scenic Byway.
Hiking
Mountain Biking
Driving Tour
Cultural Or Walking Tours
Waterfall
Important note: Accessible trails' activities are highlighted in blue!
Trail name
Trail town
Activities
Whiteside Mountain Trail
Highlands
Dry Falls Trail
Highlands
Night Sky Trail
Highlands
Highlands Plateau Greenway
Highlands
Sunset Rock Trail
Highlands
Highlands Botanical Gardens Trails
Highlands
Glen Falls Trail
Highlands
At Outdoor NC, we are dedicated to promoting accessibility for all visitors, regardless of their abilities. We strive to improve the accessibility of our offerings and share this information through our various platforms, including our Trail Town Guide. We collaborate with state, regional, local and private-sector partners to make North Carolina’s destinations and outdoor spaces easier to access.
In this guide "Accessible" means
- This guide includes accessible, easy, moderate and difficult trails which may be suitable for, or exceed, anyone’s ability. Plan Ahead and Be Prepared.
- For this guide, trails which are marked as “accessible” are ADA compliant (firm, stable surface that is at least 36 inches wide). This includes paved greenways, hard pack pathways and boardwalks. It does not mean that these trails are without obstacles.
- Beyond ADA compliant trails, this guide lists many opportunities that are suitable for visitors of all abilities which include walking tours and driving trails. Additionally, check with local land managers for information on adaptive mountain bike access for mountain biking and road cycling trails.
- We encourage all visitors to utilize the provided trail websites and other local resources to become familiar with trail descriptions, site facilities and potential obstacles, so you know what to expect and can make the best determination for your skill and abilities.
Travel Resources for a Trip to North Carolina
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