First time in Graham County? This guide will help you choose the right hike for your time, ability and sense of adventure.
It’s no secret that the best hikes in Graham County offer some of the most scenic and diverse landscapes in Western North Carollina. With more than 80% of the county located within the Nantahala National Forest, you’ll find more than 280 miles of trails to explore. The question is not whether you should you plan a hike when you visit us – it’s which trail is right you?
Sure, you can scroll through AllTrails, pore over forest service maps, or pick up a brochure from our Welcome Center – but Smoky Mountain Living magazine just published a for a detailed article with stunning photos: “Beyond the Beaten Path, Top 10 Graham County Trails” written by Calie Wrona.
Whether you seek a family-friendly forest walk, a wheelchair-accessible path, or your first high-adventure overnight trek, this article will help you choose a trail that is just your size. Wrona’s guide details each trail with a round trip distance, difficulty ranking, trail head location, and an enticing description that will have you lacing your boots.
Which Trails Made the List?
If your time is short, wander through Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest – home to the towering trees of one of largest old growth forests in the country. Have an entire day? Set off to discover Sassafras Falls, one of the most beautiful and secluded waterfall hikes in Graham County.
Here’s a brief summary of Wrona’s list but click through to read the entire article complete with photos:
Hooper Bald
- Round-trip Distance: 3 miles
- Difficulty: Easy (with steps)
- Trailhead: Cherohala Skyway, Mile Marker 8
“At nearly 5,300 feet, the trail opens up to a pastured bald. Nearby, a look-out rock frames the endless waves of Appalachian peaks as they roll toward the horizon.”
Appalachian Trail (Stecoah Gap to Cheoah Bald)
- Round-trip Distance: 12 miles
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Trailhead: Stecoah Gap
“Rising above the Nantahala Gorge, Cheoah Bald offers one of the more challenging summits in all of Western North Carolina. The ascent is demanding, but the reward is worth the effort—the 180-degree views are breathtaking on a clear day. “
Santeetlah Lake Trail
- Round-trip Distance: 3.5-5.8 miles loops
- Difficulty: Moderate or Easy
- Trailhead: 4 Snowbird Road or Carver Cemetery
“This trail is a dream for anyone who loves lakeside hiking. The path, hugging the shore of pristine Santeetlah Lake, meanders through lush forest and offers endless glimpses of sparkling water.”
Tsali Mouse Branch Loop Trail
- Round-trip Distance: 8.7 miles
- Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
- Trailhead: Tsali Recreation Area
“The trail offers a perfect mix of challenge and reward, and is especially great for families and those seeking a long but manageable nature adventure.”
Spirit Ridge Paved Trail
- Round-trip Distance: 2 miles
- Difficulty: Easy (Wheelchair & Stroller Accessible)
- Trailhead: Cherohala Skyway
“This short, paved path winds its way to a spectacular overlook, where misty mountain ridges stretch before you. Along the trail, informative signs offer stories about the region’s unique ecology and rich history.”
Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest Double-Loop Trail
- Round-trip Distance: 2 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead: Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
“Step into a living cathedral where ancient trees stretch toward the heavens. The Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest is one of the last remaining virgin forests in the eastern United States, home to towering poplars that have stood for centuries.”
Sassafras Falls Trail
- Round-trip Distance: 7.2 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Snowbird Wilderness Area
“A waterfall lover’s dream, Sassafras Falls Trail is a hidden gem that rewards hikers with a stunning cascade nestled deep within the Snowbird Wilderness. The trail follows a gentle roadbed, winding through a peaceful forest before reaching the picturesque falls.”
Yellow Creek Falls Trail
- Round-trip Distance: 0.7 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate but short
- Trailhead: Yellow Creek Road
“Yellow Creek Falls is the ideal choice for those seeking a short, rewarding hike. This easy and well-marked trail leads to a magnificent 50-foot waterfall that plunges into a serene, clear pool.”
Huckleberry Knob Trail
- Round-trip Distance: 2.5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead: Cherohala Skyway, Mile Marker 8
“Huckleberry Knob isn’t just a hike—it’s an experience. As the highest point along the Cherohala Skyway, at 5,560 feet, this bald offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the Smokies.”
Hazel Creek Trail
- Round-trip Distance: Varies
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Fontana Lake (boat access required)
“Few trails start with a boat ride—but Hazel Creek Trail is no ordinary hike. The trail is accessible only by water, so you start with a scenic pontoon trip across Fontana Lake.”
What are you waiting for?
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned outdoor person, the best hikes in Graham County are waiting for you — scenic views, peaceful escapes, and unforgettable adventures.
We’ll see you out there.
