DiscoverJacksonNC
Where should you explore during the NC Year of the Trail?
Lace up those hiking boots, as 2023 is the NC Year of the Trail! We want to highlight our best trail recommendations year-round in Jackson County.
DiscoverJacksonNC
Schoolhouse Falls
Jackson County, NC
One of the most beautiful waterfalls in our region, Schoolhouse Falls in Panthertown Valley is a sight to see. Especially when it’s frozen in the winter! Not necessarily recommended for beginners, the challenging navigation is well worth the effort to see it in all its glory. Just make sure you grab a map at one of our Visitor Centers before you hit the trail.
DiscoverJacksonNC
Pinnacle Park
Sylva, NC
Monday:
Open 24 hours
Tuesday:
Open 24 hours
Wednesday:
Open 24 hours
Thursday:
Open 24 hours
Friday:
Open 24 hours
Saturday:
Open 24 hours
Sunday:
Open 24 hours
Some say best explored in the spring, Pinnacle Park does have some strenuous terrain! If you can handle a 7 mile trek to ascend more than 3000 feet, we guarantee the views will be worth it.
DiscoverJacksonNC
Richland Balsam Trail
Jackson County, NC
Save this one for your summer hike! Why is that? Travelers say that you’ll be able to smell the pleasant aroma of the spruce trees, which also work to keep you surprisingly cool along the route. There’s no shortage of stunning views from Haywood-Jackson Overlook.
DiscoverJacksonNC
Whiteside Mountain
Jackson County, NC
With sheer, vertical cliffs that tower above the valley below, this trail features one of the county’s most recognizable peaks. The leaf-peeping from here is truly out of this world!