Day Hike at Elk Knob

This hike is very calm, with a highly maintained trail winding up the hike. At a mild pace it takes less than an hour to peak the mountain; the views are stunning enough for a hike three times that long.

At the top you’ll be greeted by a small platform overlook extending over the North View, and from there on a clear day you can see many well-known peaks, such as Mount Jefferson, Grandfather Mountain, Mount Mitchell, and various mountains in Tennessee and Virginia.

The multiple mountain range view provides for stunning photos displaying one of the most gorgeous views in the High Country. Although the peak is relatively small, it is a nice place for a quick picnic overlooking the north or south views.

The prime season to be here would have to be fall - the colorful leaves provide an unforgettable site. If hiking here in the winter months I suggest wearing many layers regardless of the temperature in the parking lot. The wind chill can reach almost -10 on a mild winter day.

Getting there: The road up to Elk Knob is relatively easy to follow, only 5.5 miles from NC Highway 194 on Meatcamp Road.