Hiking

Grandfather Mountain
Grandfather Mountain is the highest peak in the Blue Ridge mountain range and a globally recognized nature preserve. Grandfather Mountain has 11 trails varying in difficulty from a gentle walk in the woods to a rigorous trek across rugged peaks. Other attractions include the Mile High swinging bridge and Wildlife Habitats.
http://www.grandfather.com

Blue Ridge Parkway Region of North Carolina Hiking
The hikes in this region are located along the Blue Ridge Parkway from the Asheville area to the Virginia border and in the mountains of northwest North Carolina.

http://www.trails.com/activity.asp?area=10160

Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is a volunteer-based, private nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation of the 2,175-mile Appalachian National Scenic Trail, a 250,000-acre greenway extending from Maine to Georgia. South of the Smokies on the Appalachian Trail are the long climbs of the Stecoah-Cheoah Mountain area, then the outstanding Nantahala section, with 4,000-foot gaps and 5,000-foot peaks. Cheoah Bald offers panoramic views of western North Carolina. Like much of the A.T. in the deep South, you have a feeling of remoteness, and a sensation of being in deep forests. The variety of forest growth and the beauty of the flowering shrubs, along with the many spectacular views, make this entire section of Trail memorable.

The section from the Nantahala River to the Georgia border features the best-graded trail at high elevations anywhere in the Deep South, with a couple of short exceptions. There are lots of views from natural openings and fire towers, some requiring short side trips.