Trail Town
We’re delighted to announce that Haywood County is an official partner of the Outdoor NC Alliance! This partnership is driven by our passion to cultivate and promote accessible outdoor experiences, responsible visitation, and sustainable tourism. As the “Gateway to the Smokies,” it is our foremost responsibility to steward the preservation of our treasured outdoors for the generations to come. Our goal is to ensure our state remains the world-class destination we know and love, forever.
Tackle dozens of scenic hiking trails along the Southeast’s highest peaks, cruise the Blue Ridge Parkway, cast a line or drop a tube in the pristine waters of the Pigeon River, or dip into genuine Appalachian culture with a trip to Cataloochee Valley or along the Haywood County Quilt Trail. No matter how you choose to explore, do so responsibly.
Protecting such a vast ecosystem can seem daunting, but every small action builds into positive, lasting change. Download the Outdoor NC Trail Town Guide here and use the resources linked below to chart your Haywood County course!
Trails Spotlight
Check out this year’s featured trails and explore all Haywood County has to offer!
Mountains to Sea Trail
The 1,175-mile Mountains-to-Sea Trail stretches from the furthest tip of the Western NC Mountains all the way to the Outer Banks! Made up of 18 segments, Haywood County is home to Segment 2, “The Balsams.” Segment 2 encompass 61 miles of tumbling waterfalls, panoramic views, and old growth forests.
Photo by @ron.rosenzweig
Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail
Strap on your snorkeling mask and explore the cool, pristine waters of the Pigeon River. Located in the mountain town of Canton, Haywood’s stop on the Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail invites you into an aquatic world of trout, salamanders, freshwater mussels, and more.
Photo by @wildcatridgefarm
Lake Junaluska Walking Trail
Looking for a more casual, laidback stroll on even ground? Head to the Lake Junaluska Walking Trail! Stretch your legs along the 3.8-mile paved lakeside loop or take the Turbeville Footbridge for a shorter, 2.3-mile route. As you go, don’t miss the Rose Walk, which bursts with over 200 varieties of roses.
Flat Laurel Creek Trail
Put your rock-hopping shoes on to take on Flat Laurel Creek Trail! Conquer the stream crossings and craggy ascents of this moderate trek through the Shining Rock Wilderness’s high-elevation valleys and be rewarded with views from grassy balds, spruce-fir forests, and the 60-foot Wildcat Falls.
Photo by @mwwphotography
Palmer Creek Trail
A classic for a reason, Palmer Creek Trail meanders creekside through dense forest in the historic Cataloochee Valley area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A challenging but customizable trip, this horse-friendly trail gives plenty of opportunities to explore connecting hikes.
*While Cataloochee Valley is undergoing repair, hikers are encouraged to exercise caution on the trail.
Photo by @phoebeswildlife
Haywood County Quilt Trail
Take a tour of our living Appalachian history on the Haywood County Quilt Trail. An ever-growing network of over 90 quilt blocks, eagle-eyed visitors can spot customized quilts throughout downtown areas. Or, take a driving tour into the countryside to glimpse dozens of colorful blocks at private residences.
Be an Outdoor Steward in Haywood
hOW TO BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER
From hiking some of the region’s highest peaks, kayaking on the Pigeon River, and fishing heritage trout streams to elk-watching and cruising the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, Haywood County is teeming with opportunities for outdoor recreation. And that’s where you come in! Keep reading to learn how to recreate responsibly.
ACCESSIBILITY
Haywood County’s breathtaking views, tranquil trails, and quaint Appalachian culture are meant to be enjoyed by everyone. Though we believe recreation is a universal right, we recognize that the regional terrain and current infrastructure render much of our beautiful mountains inaccessible to some travelers. While we are still working to develop accessible venues and experiences in Haywood County, take a peak at our current accessible experiences.
Haywood, NC Trip Tips
Get the lowdown on Haywood’s hidden gems, fun facts, and planning tips from local experts Preston Jacobsen, Kristin Young, and Shannon Young.
Click here for even more outdoor adventures in Haywood County’s corner of the Western NC Mountains
