The Best Most Difficult Hikes in Western North Carolina
Hikes by Difficulty: Easy | Moderate | More Difficult | Most Difficult
This page includes all Most Difficult hikes. Click any Climb or Tread rating for details about the ratings.
Harper Creek Falls
8.5mi, Most Difficult
- Climbing: Hilly
- Tread Condition: Hilly
A wilderness experience awaits along Harper Creek. However, this is a relatively gentle encounter with wilderness due to its short length, moderate grade, and sparse (but useful) trail blazes. From intimate creekside scenes, to long-distance views, to close-up encounters with two major waterfalls, excellent scenery awaits along this hike. You'll follow a major, free-flowing stream for several miles and cross it a total of 12 times, getting you wet up to your knees. Not recommended in winter or during high water.
Mount Mitchell
11.4mi, Most Difficult
- Climbing: Climbs Steeply
- Tread Condition: Climbs Steeply
Starting at the Black Mountain Campground on the Toe River, this hike gains 3600' in elevation over 5 1/2 miles to reach the summit of the East's highest peak, making it one of the toughest climbs in the region. You'll enjoy a varied forest that changes with the elevation. Much of the forest is old-growth, and you'll pass through stands of Red Spruce that help explain why this tree was such a valued resource. And, of course, there are spectacular views from high up. A side loop to a majestic alpine meadow helps provide round-trip variety.
