About Our Hikes

Nantahala Hiking Club conducts hikes on most Saturdays, Sundays and occasional weekday hikes. Hiking with our club typically means someone agrees to carpool others to the trailhead.  Carpooling helps minimize traffic and reduce our carbon footprint. Also, some trailheads have limited parking.

As a courtesy to the driver, you may wish to chip in for gas after the hike. We suggest 10 cents a mile as a fair return. Round-trip mileage is given in the description of each hike. 

You do not need to be a member to hike with our Club. Families and friends are always welcome!  The hike leader will let you know if their hike is appropriate for children.

Difficulty Ratings:

E:    Easy: Short hike, little change in elevation gain.

M: Moderate: 4-6 mile hike, up to 1000’ elevation gain.

S:    Strenuous: 6 miles or more, over 1000’ elevation gain.

VS:  Very Strenuous

Meeting Point Abbreviations:

MP: Macon Plaza, Franklin

WP: Westgate Plaza, Franklin

CBP:  Ballpark near PO, Cashiers

CH:  NHC Clubhouse

SMV:  Smoky Mtn Visitor Center, Franklin

  • On all hiking trips, bring lunch, snacks and plenty of water.
  • A hiking stick/trekking poles are optional.
  • Wear sturdy shoes or boots and bring rain gear.
  • Guests are always welcome.
  • Groups wait no longer than 5 minutes past the set meeting time.
  • Those carpooling are asked to contribute 10 cents per mile to the driver.
  • “R/T” = round trip.
  • Weather may cause changes to the schedule.
  • All area codes are 828 unless noted.
  • Reservations are required.
  • Hike limit: 20 people.
  • Please check with the hike leader if you want to bring your dog.