Blue Ridge Mountains

North Carolina

The ancient Blue Ridge Mountains feature some of the most diverse forests in North America, with misty valleys, thundering waterfalls, and spectacular ridgeline views. This trek explores the region's most dramatic landscapes including Grandfather Mountain and Linville Gorge, often called "the Grand Canyon of the East."

Trip duration:
4 days

Challenge duration:
4 days

Challenge grade:
3/5

Departure months:
May to September

Accommodation:
Cabin and Camping options (twin-share)

Why you'll love this adventure

Summit the highest peak east of the Mississippi at Mount Mitchell.
Experience ladder climbs and cable assists on Grandfather Mountain.
Witness breathtaking views from multiple balds and exposed ridges.
Explore Linville Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the eastern U.S.

Trip notes

Day 1: Mountain State Park - Grandfather Trail

Start at Grandfather Mountain State Park with the Daniel Boone Scout Trail (3 miles) to Calloway Peak. Continue along the challenging Grandfather Trail (2.4 miles) with ladder climbs and cable assists.

Day 2: Linville Gorge - Table Rock Mountain

Drive to Linville Gorge and hike the Shortoff Mountain Trail (4.5 miles) for spectacular gorge views. Continue to Table Rock Mountain (2.2 miles) for an incredible sunset.

Day 3: Black Balsam Knob - Shining Rock

Head to Pisgah National Forest and tackle the Art Loeb Trail section from Black Balsam Knob to Shining Rock (6.5 miles), passing over multiple balds with 360° views.

Day 4: Mitchell State Park - Black Mountain Crest

Visit Mount Mitchell State Park to summit the highest peak east of the Mississippi (2 miles). Then hike the nearby Deep Gap Trail (4 miles) traversing a spruce-fir forest along the Black Mountain Crest.

For a more detailed itinerary, with inclusions and exclusions please contact Inspired Adventures directly.

Responsible Travel

Caring for our adventurers, the communities we visit and the wellbeing of the planet is the heart of everything we do. This adventure is no exception.

Environment: We offset the emissions from this trip through carbon credit programs in partnership with Carbon Neutral.
Treading lightly: Trekking is a great, low-impact way to explore.
Small group travel: Our teams consist of a maximum of 25 people. Better for you, and better for the planet.
Responsible business: We’re a certified B-Corp, committed to using business as a force for good

Do you want to take your supporters on an adventure-of-a-lifetime?

Enquire today about an itinerary for your organisation.

We’re a certified B Corp, committed to using business as a force for good.

As an Australian-owned business, Inspired Adventures recognises the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and honours their enduring relationship with the land, waters, and communities. We pay tribute to their cultures and extend our respect to their Elders, past and present.

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