Easy hikes and walks in Yancey County
4.5
(65)
1,173
hikers
112
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Yancey County traverse a landscape characterized by the majestic Black Mountains, the scenic Toe River Valley, and high-elevation forests. The region features diverse ecosystems, including boreal forests and unique cloud forests, offering varied natural scenery. Numerous waterfalls, such as Crabtree Falls and Roaring Fork Falls, are accessible via short, easy trails. This area provides a network of paths suitable for leisurely walks and family-friendly outings.
Best easy hiking trails in Yancey County
- The most popular easy hiking route is Crabtree Falls Loop Trail, a 2.6 miles (4.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 16 minutes to complete. This route leads to the 70-foot Crabtree Falls, a delicate cascade off the Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Roaring Fork Falls Trail, an easy 1.3 miles (2.1 km) path. This trail leads through dense forest to the 100-foot Roaring Fork Falls.
- Local hikers also love the Lower River Loop Trail, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail leading through riparian areas, often completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Hiking in Yancey County is defined by high-altitude forests, scenic waterfalls, and mountain views. The network offers options for short, accessible walks and longer, easy excursions.
- The routes in Yancey County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 700 hikers have used komoot to explore Yancey County's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
3.62km
01:13
200m
140m
Embark on an easy hike along the Big Butt Trail, a scenic route that guides you through a high ridgeline within a northern hardwoods forest. You will discover lush trees and old-growth spruce as you make your way along the path. The trail offers rewarding views of the Black Mountains Range, including Mount Mitchell State Park, with a serene rock outcropping at Little Butt providing exceptional vistas. This route covers 2.2 miles (3.6 km) with an elevation gain of 671 feet (205 metres), typically taking around 1 hour and 13 minutes to complete.
When planning your visit, note that the Big Butt Trail is often less crowded than other routes, offering a peaceful experience. You can access the trail seasonally from Balsam Gap on the Blue Ridge Parkway, or year-round if you start from Cane River Gap. The NC High Peaks Trail Association meticulously maintains the route, ensuring a pleasant hiking surface for your journey.
Located within the expansive Pisgah National Forest, this trail provides a straightforward and enjoyable outdoor adventure. If you visit in late spring, you will be treated to an abundance of wildflowers, adding vibrant color to the forest landscape. The route's consistent maintenance and clear pathways make it an accessible option for many hikers looking to explore the region's natural beauty.
3.34km
01:06
210m
30m
Hike the easy 2.1-mile Patton Knob via Mountains-to-Sea Trail, gaining 692 feet for a rewarding experience in Pisgah National Forest.
Sign up for free
1.45km
00:26
0m
140m
Hike the easy 0.9-mile Crabtree Falls Trail in Pisgah National Forest, enjoying waterfall views and the sound of rushing water.
1.18km
00:23
90m
0m
Embark on an easy hike along the Straight Creek via Waterslide Trail, a short but scenic route that winds through a beautiful natural setting. You will find the path often follows the creek, offering refreshing views as water flows over smooth, bedrock slabs. This trail covers just 0.7 miles (1.2 km) with an elevation gain of 298 feet (91 metres), making it a perfect quick outing. Expect to complete the hike in about 23 minutes, enjoying forested areas and small waterfalls along the way. Be mindful of potentially uneven and slippery surfaces, particularly near the water's edge.
Planning your visit to this trail is straightforward, as parking is generally available close to the trailhead. It is always a good idea to check local conditions before you head out, ensuring a smooth experience. This route is considered both family friendly and dog friendly, making it an excellent choice for a quick outdoor adventure with loved ones. No specific permits are mentioned as being required for this accessible hike, simplifying your preparations.
This trail is nestled within the expansive Pisgah National Forest, a region renowned for its lush landscapes and abundant natural beauty. The frequent presence of the creek and the unique bedrock slabs highlight the area's geological features, offering a distinct visual experience. It provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in a serene forest environment, even for a short duration. The combination of easy access and natural charm makes this a notable option for a brief escape into nature.
5.0
(7)
108
hikers
4.23km
01:16
140m
140m
Hike the easy 2.6-mile Crabtree Falls Loop Trail in the Blue Ridge Mountains, featuring stunning waterfalls and mountain views.
17
hikers
2.08km
00:35
40m
40m
Hike to the picturesque Roaring Fork Falls on this easy 1.3-mile trail in Pisgah National Forest, perfect for a quick family outing.
8
hikers
2.45km
00:50
120m
120m
Hike the easy 1.5-mile Old Mitchell Toll Road and Pinnacle Loop for spectacular views from Blue Ridge Pinnacle Summit in Pisgah National For
4
hikers
4.96km
01:20
60m
60m
Hike the easy 3.1-mile Lower River Loop Trail in Pisgah National Forest, offering diverse natural features and riparian views.
1.68km
00:28
30m
30m
The easy Setrock Creek Falls Trail leads you to a beautiful multi-level waterfall in Pisgah National Forest, perfect for families.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Crabtree Falls is located near the McDowell and Yancey County boundary in North Carolina. The 70-foot cascade on Big Crabtree Creek have delicate appearance with water cascading over small ledges before flowing into a clear pool. The area, once known as Murphy's Falls and home to a small community, was renamed Crabtree Falls by the National Park Service during the Blue Ridge Parkway construction in the 1930s. The trailhead is situated at mile marker 339.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, leading to a footbridge at the falls. A loop version of the trail is accessible from the Crabtree Falls Campground parking area and is about 2.5 miles long, with a challenging 0.9-mile descent and a gentler 1.5-mile ascent back to the start.
0
0
Point Misery is a 5,715-foot peak along the Big Butt Trail in Buncombe County. There are three main peaks along this trail, and Point Misery is the most southern peak along this ridge.
0
0
Little Butt is a 5,636-foot peak along the Big Butt Trail spanning the major ridge across from the Black Crest Ridge of Mount Mitchell in the Black Mountains. The peaks along this ridge all offer excellent views, including the two Butts.
0
0
Black Mountain Campground is a seasonal campground in Pisgah National Forest with toilets, showers, tent pads, and a camp store. Along with camping, the area boasts plentiful parking, fishing access, and access to hiking trails. All campsites have to be reserved through the Forest Service. The paved road leads to the campground entrance, but there is also a forest road to the southwest (South Toe River Road), which offers the ability to make some awesome gravel riding loops.
0
0
This overhanging rock makes for a good resting spot if you're looking for shade. There is also a decent overlook in this area that sits above the Hoover Meadows OHV roads and trails.
0
0
Black Mountain Campground is a seasonal campground in Pisgah National Forest with toilets, showers, tent pads, and a camp store. Along with camping, the area boasts plentiful parking, fishing access, and access to hiking trails. All campsites have to be reserved through the Forest Service.
0
0
If hiking the South Toe River Loop, you will cross over the South Toe River twice on two seperate foot bridges. The water levels vary with the seasons, but the riverbed is never dry.
0
0
Setrock Creek Falls is a 75 foot tall waterfall just outside of the campgrounds on South Toe River Road. The short trail is suitable for anyone, and the falls are gushing or just trickling depending on the time of year that you visit.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Yancey County?
Yancey County offers 11 easy hiking trails, providing a variety of options for leisurely walks and family-friendly outings. These trails are part of a larger network of over 80 routes in the region, catering to different skill levels.
What makes Yancey County a good place for easy hikes?
Yancey County is known as the 'hiking capital of Western North Carolina' due to its dramatic mountain landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and extensive trail network. For easy hikes, you'll find scenic paths through high-altitude forests, along the Toe River Valley, and to picturesque waterfalls, all without strenuous climbs.
What is the best time of year for easy hikes in Yancey County?
The region is beautiful year-round, but spring and fall are particularly popular. Spring brings abundant wildflowers, while fall offers spectacular foliage. Be aware that high-elevation areas like Mount Mitchell State Park and sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway may experience winter closures due to snow and ice.
Are there easy hiking trails in Yancey County that lead to waterfalls?
Yes, Yancey County features several easy trails leading to beautiful waterfalls. Consider the Crabtree Falls Trail loop, which leads to the 70-foot Crabtree Falls, or the Roaring Fork Falls Trail to the 100-foot Roaring Fork Falls. Another accessible option is the Setrock Creek Falls Trail near Black Mountain Campground.
Can I find easy loop trails in Yancey County?
Absolutely. Several easy loop trails are available, perfect for a relaxed outing. Popular choices include the Crabtree Falls Trail loop and the Blue Ridge Pinnacle Trail loop. For a riverside experience, try the Devil's Den Nature Trail & South Toe River Loop.
Are the easy hiking trails in Yancey County suitable for families with children?
Yes, many easy trails in Yancey County are ideal for families. Trails leading to waterfalls, such as Roaring Fork Falls Trail and Setrock Creek Falls Trail, are short and relatively flat, making them enjoyable for all ages. The Devil's Den Nature Trail & South Toe River Loop also offers a pleasant, easy walk along the river.
Are dogs allowed on the easy hiking trails in Yancey County?
Generally, dogs are welcome on leash on most trails in Pisgah National Forest and Mount Mitchell State Park, which encompass many of Yancey County's easy hikes. Always check specific park or trail regulations before heading out, as rules can vary.
Which easy trails offer the best scenic views?
For panoramic vistas, the Craggy Pinnacle Trail is an excellent choice, offering stunning views from Craggy Pinnacle. The Craggy Gardens viewpoint loop from Bearpen Knob also provides beautiful high-altitude scenery. Mount Mitchell State Park itself offers dramatic 360-degree views from its summit, accessible via an easy paved path to the observation deck.
Are there any easy hikes near Mount Mitchell State Park?
Yes, Mount Mitchell State Park and its surroundings offer easy options. Within the park, the Balsam Nature Trail provides a moderate loop through Fraser firs. Nearby, the Setrock Creek Falls Trail is an easy walk to a waterfall, located close to the Black Mountain Campground, which is a gateway to the Mount Mitchell area.
What kind of natural attractions can I see along easy hiking trails in Yancey County?
Easy trails in Yancey County often lead to diverse natural attractions. You can visit Crabtree Falls or Setrock Creek Falls. Many trails offer views of the majestic Black Mountains and the scenic Toe River Valley. You might also encounter unique cloud forests and high-altitude boreal forests, remnants from the last ice age, similar to those found much further north.
What do other hikers enjoy most about easy hikes in Yancey County?
The easy hikes in Yancey County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of stunning natural features like waterfalls and panoramic mountain views, as well as the well-maintained paths that make these trails enjoyable for all skill levels.
Are there any easy hikes that are less crowded or considered 'hidden gems'?
While popular spots like Crabtree Falls attract visitors, trails like the Devil's Den Nature Trail & South Toe River Loop offer a quieter experience along the South Toe River. Exploring trails within the Black Mountain Campground area, beyond the main waterfall paths, can also lead to more secluded, easy walks.
Most popular routes in Yancey County
Most popular attractions in Yancey County
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
