Hiking in Hendersonville: 24+ Trails to Check Out

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Looking to spend some time hiking in Hendersonville North Carolina? Check out my top recommendations below!

Hendersonville North Carolina is one of my all-time favorite hiking towns to visit when I’m on the road. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve stopped here for a quick hike and a cold beer.

Recently I had the privilege to work with Hendersonville on my social media platforms and I was blown away by how many hikes I hadn’t done in the area. Hiking in Hendersonville is such a good time because the location is hard to beat.

Drive 30 minutes in any direction and you’ll find a great trail to explore. Hendersonville is just a short distance from Dupont State Forest, where one of my favorite hidden gems is, and an easy drive to the famous Blue Ridge Parkway.

The area also borders the Green River Gamelands and provides easy access to Chimney Rock State Park. Basing yourself in Hendersonville is a fabulous idea if you love hiking.

Know Before You Go

Hendersonville is located in an area that receives a lot of rain and thunderstorms during the summer. I highly encourage you to check the weather before going hiking in Hendersonville.

I had great weather while I was there, but you can never be too safe.

Additionally, please also check trail conditions using an app like Alltrails. People will often leave reviews of what the recent trail conditions are like.

If you’re heading to Dupont State Forest, they update trail closures and advisories often.

Leave No Trace Principles

Following leave no trace when recreating outdoors is essential so we can continue to enjoy the beautiful trails in North Carolina. This is crucial when hiking in Hendersonville since this area experiences high volumes of visitors throughout the year.

While you’re out hiking, remember always to pack out trash, respect other hikers, and stay on the trail. Many of these hikes see a lot of foot traffic so it’s important that we all participate in keeping our personal impact low.

If you’re feeling inspired, bring a plastic bag and some gloves to pick up any trash you see. I’ve been doing this on all my hikes in 2023 and I’ve picked up a lot of trash. I want to help keep NC wild and I bet you do too!

The hikes below are grouped into regions around Hendersonville. There are dozens of trails in the area to choose from!

Hiking in Hendersonville: Dupont State Forest

High Falls

High Falls is one of my all-time favorite waterfalls in the state. In fact, this was the first hike I ever did in North Carolina.

The waterfall is rather easy to get to, but it gets busy and parking fills up quickly on a hot summer day.

You can reach High Falls in about a half mile if you veer left from the parking lot like you’re heading to Triple Falls and then go right at the split.

Otherwise, if you go right from the parking lot it will be about 2 miles round trip. If you take this route you do get to see the covered bridge and get a few more steps in.

High Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the state because it has numerous spots for swimming and the sheer size of it is incredible. That being said, it is extra important to practice leave-no-trace here. Pack your trash out!!!

Triple Falls

Triple Falls can be accessed from the same trail as High Falls. A lot of people do these together because the full trail is only about 2.7 miles roundtrip.

There are a few places to view Triple Falls, but it is not one you should swim at. It is beautiful to see and the waterfall is massive in the spring when rainfall is at its peak!

Hooker Falls

Similar to High Falls, Hooker Falls is an exceptionally popular spot to swim and enjoy a hot summer day. The trail is only .8 miles out and back making it highly accessible for most people.

Hooker Falls gets trashed easily even though there are numerous trash cans at the trailhead. Please do your part and pack out your trash here. If you’re feeling like a good samaritan, you could also pick up a few stray pieces of trash here as well.

I don’t have a great picture of Hooker Falls because my camera fell into the water when I was here (don’t worry it dried out and is working fine). It is a stunning waterfall and if you go early in the morning chances are you will have it mostly to yourself.

Stone Mountain Summit Trail

Stone Mountain Summit is in an area of Dupont State Forest that doesn’t experience as much traffic as the main stretch. Part of the road to get here is gravel, but it can be accessed by any type of vehicle.

I did this hike for sunrise and it was incredible. The hike up is pretty much straight uphill after the first half mile.

I was extremely sweaty and out of breath when I reached the top, but it’s a great hike for sunrise since it’s only 1.4 miles to the top.

Wintergreen Falls

I believe this is one of the most underrated trails in Dupont State Forest. Wintergreen Falls has minimal visitors compared to the other waterfalls on this list.

The hike to the falls is relatively easy and well-marked. There’s a great pool to swim in that’s about 4 ft. deep.

Hiking in Hendersonville: Blue Ridge Parkway

Mount Pisgah

Mount Pisgah is located approximately 15 miles up the Blue Ridge Parkway from the entrance. It’s only 2.6 miles roundtrip which makes it a great hike to add on if you decide to drive the parkway.

Although I wouldn’t consider this one of my favorite hikes on the parkway, it does have a good payoff for the amount of hiking you do.

Frying Pan Tower

Frying Pan Tower is stunning for sunrise or sunset. My personal preference would be sunrise due to how busy it gets during sunset, but I haven’t been able to catch a good sunrise here yet.

The hike is 1.5 miles roundtrip and it’s all uphill on the way there. I don’t think it’s too bad since it’s relatively short, but I know some people find it steep so just know you’ll be getting a good booty burn.

As for the tower itself, the structure isn’t the most sound I’ve ever seen, but that’s pretty par for the course with fire towers. The views from the steps are beautiful and if the top is open you can go all the way up.

I’ve been on the top once and it is a little sketchy. I would not recommend bringing kids or dogs to the top.

North Carolina Arboretum

The arboretum is a great place to spend the day, especially in the spring when the flowers are in full bloom.

There are numerous trails to choose from here and plenty of parking.

To enter the arboretum you need to pay a $20 parking fee which can be pretty steep if you don’t plan to spend the whole day there.

You can hike in from the Bent Creek River Park area to avoid the fee, but keep in mind this park doesn’t have a ton of parking so you may not find a spot.

Hiking in Hendersonville: Chimney Rock & Surrounding Area

Exclamation Point and Devil’s Head

Chimney Rock State Park is located near Lake Lure North Carolina which is only a 40-minute drive from Hendersonville.

The park has a lot to offer in terms of hiking. Exclamation Point is one of the most completed trails in the park and for good reason. Staring out at Lake Lure and the beautiful, dense forest in North Carolina is hard to beat.

In order to enter Chimney Rock State Park you need to pay a fee of $17 per adult and $8 per youth.

Hickory Nut Falls

Hickory Nut Falls is the waterfall to visit while you’re at Chimney Rock State Park.

The hike to reach the waterfall is only 1.5 miles out and back. There is very little elevation gain throughout your time on the trail making it accessible for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Bearwallow Mountain

I’ve hiked Bearwallow Mountain two times and would do it again. Located a little over 30 minutes from downtown Hendersonville, this hike is absolutely gorgeous in the summer months as there are multitudes of wildflowers along the trail and at the top.

The only thing I don’t love about this hike is the sheer lack of good parking. A parking lot doesn’t exist for this trail because of where the trailhead is situated.

There are a few parking spots that are along the road, but you will have to park on the side of the road in the grass if those are taken.

If you choose to do this hike on a weekend expect to see many people on the trail or go at sunrise to have a more peaceful experience.

The hike up is a workout since you’ll gain 587 ft. in a mile, but it’s doable for most people. You’ll also probably see some cows at the top since this is a common area for them to graze.

Wildcat Rock

Wildcat Rock is on the other side of Bearwallow Mountain and starts from the Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Trailhead. Since they are so close together, you could definitely do both this hike and Bearwallow Mountain on the same day.

This hike comes in at about 2.9 miles out and back and delivers some pretty magnificent views of Chestnut Hills Preserve. The elevation gain on this hike is about 1,000 ft. in 1.5 miles so it’s definitely not a casual hike.

Hiking in Hendersonville: Pisgah Forest

Looking Glass Falls

Looking Glass Falls is insanely popular and for good reason. It’s a stunning waterfall right off the main road north of Brevard.

There really isn’t a “hike” to the waterfall as much as it’s a walk down the stairs. Since this waterfall can get pretty busy, I recommend stopping here early in the morning before heading over to one of the longer nearby hikes.

It’s a great add-on stop because it can be done in rather a short amount of time. The parking is right on the road and from what I remember there are only a few spots making an early start even more appealing!

Looking Glass Rock

Located a stone’s throw from Looking Glass Falls, Looking Glass Rock is an incredible 5.7 mile out and back in Pisgah Forest. The hike is a steady climb and a great workout.

There are numerous switchbacks toward the beginning of the hike and then they level out as you proceed uphill.

Most people choose to go straight to the top to experience the main lookout, but there’s actually a shoot-off from the trail (marked 1 on the Alltrails map) that leads to a second lookout.

I really enjoyed this second lookout because it was much less busy but still provided beautiful views. I’d recommend doing both viewing spots since the add-on barely adds any mileage to your hike.

John Rock

I tackled John Rock during the fall and it was such a good decision.

This trail is technically a loop, but if you look at the elevation map on Alltrails you’ll realize that one part of the loop is actually steeper. The best view on the hike is also at the top of the part which is less steep.

What we did, and what I’d recommend to you, is to hike this as an out-and-back and veer right at the split to go counterclockwise. The hike up won’t be as grueling and you’ll head directly to the lookout point.

This only shaves about .2 miles off the total hike, making it 4.4 miles, but your level of effort will be lower!

Pink Beds Loop

Pink Beds Loop is a great hike near Hendersonville and one I’d encourage you to explore during the flower season in North Carolina.

This particular trail boasts so many different flowers during the month of June and the foliage is hard to beat.

The trail is a 5.1-mile loop that takes you through ferns, boardwalks, and rhododendron tunnels. There are some streams on this hike so you’ll have a chance to filter water if you need it!

Pilot Cove and Slate Rock Loop

Pilot Cove and Slate Rock is the perfect fall color hike.

The hiking trail is a 6.9-mile loop and is not nearly as busy as the other nearby hikes with similar lookouts.

Since this trail isn’t frequented by as many people, it is a good idea to download an offline map to make sure you don’t get lost! In certain areas the trail can also get relatively steep so if you need extra support I recommend bringing poles!

The road to get here, Yellow Gap Road, is subject to seasonal road closure. Be sure to check to ensure that the road is open before making the journey out to the trailhead.

Additionally, it is recommended to have a high-clearance vehicle to travel on Yellow Gap Road.

Turkey Pen Gap

Turkey Pen Gap has come highly recommended to me by numerous Hendersonville locals.

I have yet to do this trail, but the reviews are outstanding and I feel comfortable adding it to this list.

I’ve linked the shorter route above, but there are a few different routes you can take. All the hike options are over 6 miles so set aside a good portion of your day to complete this one.

Hiking in Hendersonville: Green River Gamelands

Little Bradley Falls

Little Bradley Falls is part of the Green River Gamelands system, quite possibly one of the most underrated areas in the state.

The full trail is only 1.8 miles out and back, but even though it’s short the end reward is breathtaking.

Not only is this waterfall stunning to look at, but it also creates a great swimming spot on a hot summer day.

To get here you will after to make a few stream crossings. There’s only one that’s slightly challenging and you will probably get a little wet. Keep this in mind if you plan on visiting in the colder months.

Big Bradley Falls

When I first moved to the Southeast, this waterfall was closed to the public for safety renovations. It has since opened back up and is a great day trip from Hendersonville.

There are two ways to access this waterfall. The first option is to hike to the lookout from the same area where you park for Little Bradley Falls.

Instead of heading South to Little Bradley, you’ll head North on the opposite side of the road. The hike to the lookout is approximately 2.1 miles.

The second way to access Big Bradley Falls is by taking the lower trail. This trail is sometimes closed, can be difficult to navigate, and sometimes requires crossing heavy-moving rivers. I wouldn’t recommend seeing Big Bradley from this trail unless you are kid and dog-free with more hiking experience than the average hiker.

Green River Narrows

Green River Narrows trail runs along Pulliman Creek with the Green River as the final destination. The hike is beautiful and there are multiple places to take a quick dip if you’re in the mood.

The Green River is a popular spot in North Carolina for kayakers so if you’re lucky, you may get to watch some go by. The full hike is only 3 miles out and back so it’s a great option for a morning or afternoon hike if you have additional plans.

All the uphill for this hike is on the way back so make sure you conserve your energy for the 810 ft. of elevation gain.

Lower Big Hungry Falls

Lower Big Hungry Falls is an easy waterfall hike on the edge of Green River Gamelands. The hike can sometimes be overgrown with poison ivy so plan to wear pants to avoid any contact.

There is a small swimming hole here that is great for cooling off in the summer.

Hiking in Hendersonville: Downtown Hikes and Walks

Jump Off Rock

Hiking in Hendersonville wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Jump Off Rock. This is hands down the best place to watch the sunset right near Hendersonville.

This gorgeous viewpoint is only 15 minutes from downtown Hendersonville and it has a few short trails you can explore if you’re feeling in the adventurous spirit.

A lot of people bring a blanket and chairs here to watch the sun go down. It’s a perfect ending to the day.

The road to reach this spot is rather windy so be cautious as you drive up. It’s a residential area so it’s well-paved and trafficked, but the twists and turns are pretty consistent all the way to the top.

Oklawaha Greenway

When I visited Hendersonville I was training for a marathon and I needed a trail in town to run my 12-mile long run on.

Oklawaha Greenway is right next to downtown and is 6.6 miles out and back. There are numerous places to access the greenway and plenty of parks to stop at along the way.

I saw many people out on the trail walking, running, biking, and taking in the peaceful surroundings.

The trail runs along the mud creek and there are a few places where you can access it. I wouldn’t recommend getting in since it didn’t look like the best swimming water, but watching the creek would be a great way to take a break while you’re on the greenway.

Best Places to Eat and Drink

HenDough Chicken and Donuts

Chicken and donuts, I mean do I really need to say anything else? Hendough is a local favorite and great for breakfast or lunch.

The outside is extraordinarily dog friendly with picnic tables, an outdoor window for ordering, and water bowls.

I ordered the classic chicken sandwich here and a donut-to-go for my hike. They were both 10/10 on the delicious scale.

Whit’s Frozen Custard

One of the best spots for dessert in Hendersonville is Whit’s Frozen Custard. The flavors are divine and they also welcome pups outside.

My husband and I split a small and it was plenty for the two of us. They also offer take-home ice cream in their freezer section so if you’re looking to enjoy this at home or your accommodation you have that option as well!

Flat Rock Wood Room

I could probably write an entire blog post just on Flat Rock Wood Room. The food here is absolutely divine and we left with nothing but high praises.

Flat Rock Wood Room is located south of downtown Hendersonville a little over 5 minutes in the town of Flat Rock.

The food selection here focuses on barbeque, wood-fired pizzas, and burgers. I had a barbeque platter that was mouth-watering and provided me with a huge leftover portion for lunch the next day (always a bonus). My husband had what he considered the best burger of his life. If you go for dinner you will not be disappointed.

Dry Falls Brewing Co

Dry Falls Brewing Co has a great outdoor space (are you noticing a theme) and an expansive beer selection.

They also typically have a food truck on site or you can grab lunch at Hendough right down the street before popping in for a cold one.

Joey’s New York Bagels

If you love bagels then you’ll love Joey’s New York Bagels.

This place is always busy in the mornings and for a good reason. The bagels are delicious and the locals know it.

I grabbed a bagel sandwich from here after doing a long run when I was training for a marathon and it absolutely hit the spot. I honestly don’t think you can go wrong with anything on the menu!

The Baker’s Box

This is a cute, quirky restaurant right near one of the many entrances to Oklawaha Greenway. I stopped here for takeout one night and was really pleased with the options.

As the name insinuates, there are a bunch of baked goods available to purchase at the front counter. On top of that, the menu includes burgers, salads, paninis, etc.

I ordered the gyro and can highly recommend trying it out for yourself. The lamb was cooked perfectly and it was just the right amount of food.

If you’re looking to dine in, they have great indoor and outdoor seating.

Southern Streams Coffee House

Southern Streams Coffee House is beloved by locals and you can instantly tell why when you arrive.

The inside is incredibly spacious making it a great spot for business meetings and groups, but they also have a great dog-friendly patio to enjoy a morning cup of joe and breakfast on.

This is outside of downtown Hendersonville and near the beautiful Rhodedendron Lake Nature Park. If you feel like moving your body, grab your beverage to go and take a stroll through the park. It even has some benches scattered throughout to sit and relax.

White Duck Taco Shop

If you’ve ever been to Western North Carolina, you know how incredible White Duck Taco is. If not, you’re in for a treat.

White Duck Taco has a few locations throughout the state, and luckily Hendersonville is one of those.

Oklawaha Brewing Company

Oklawaha Brewing Company is one of my favorite breweries in the Hendersonville area.

The brewery is very dog-friendly, has a great selection of beer, offers indoor and outdoor seating options, and often has live music on the weekends.

FAQs: Hiking in Hendersonville

What is the easy waterfall hike near Hendersonville NC?

Hooker Falls is probably the easiest waterfall hike near Hendersonville, NC. The hike is only .8 miles roundtrip making it one of the shortest in the region.

How Many Waterfalls Are in Hendersonville NC?

The Hendersonville region boasts numerous waterfalls. Just in Dupont State Forest alone, there are over 8 waterfalls. The surrounding region has 20+ waterfalls to visit.

Downtown Hendersonville does not have any waterfalls.

Are There Mountain Views in Hendersonville NC?

Yes, there are mountain views in Hendersonville, NC. The best place for mountain views in Hendersonville, NC is Jump Off Rock.

Wrap-Up: Hiking in Hendersonville

Hendersonville is the perfect destination if you’re looking for hiking in North Carolina. There are numerous areas to choose from that all have multiple trails for every type of adventurer.

After getting in a morning sweat or watching the sunset, head to downtown Hendersonville for a cup of coffee, a refreshing beer, or a delicious dinner at one of the many great options available.

Regardless of what you choose, you’ll have a great time exploring Hendersonville, NC.