The best walks and hikes around Hendersonville
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Hiking around Hendersonville offers routes through the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. The region is characterized by rolling hills, forested mountain slopes, and proximity to protected areas like the Pisgah National Forest. Many trails lead to waterfalls or viewpoints, with elevations suitable for a range of abilities. The area also features accessible greenways that follow local waterways.
Best hiking trails around Hendersonville
- The most popular hiking route is Big Glassy and Little Glassy Mountain Trails Loop, a 3.7 miles (6.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 48 minutes to complete. This route is located within the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site and includes a climb to the Big Glassy Mountain hill.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Oklawaha Greenway, a moderate 6.5 miles (10.4 km) path. The trail follows Mud Creek through wetlands and forests with minimal elevation change.
- Local hikers also love the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail, a 1.5 miles (2.5 km) trail leading through a wooded area, often completed in about 38 minutes.
- Hiking around Hendersonville is defined by accessible mountain trails, waterfall hikes, and forested greenways. The trail network provides options for different ability levels, from short walks to viewpoints to longer routes through state forests.
- The routes in Hendersonville are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 200 hikers have used komoot to explore Hendersonville's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
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Take a gentle hike on the Patton Park Loop, an easy route perfect for a quick escape into nature. This straightforward path winds through the pleasant green spaces of Patton Park, offering a refreshing break from your day. You will cover a distance of 0.5 miles (0.8 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 5 feet (1 metres), making it accessible for almost everyone. Expect a relaxed pace, completing the entire loop in about 12 minutes. It is an ideal choice if you are looking to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air without a strenuous effort.
Planning your visit to the Patton Park Loop is simple and convenient. You can easily access the trailhead directly within Patton Park, located in Hendersonville, North Carolina. Parking is typically readily available on-site, so you should not have trouble finding a spot for your vehicle. Since this is a short and easy park trail, you will not need any special permits or have to deal with complex logistical arrangements. It is an excellent choice for a spontaneous outing, perfect for when you need a quick dose of the outdoors.
This loop offers a straightforward experience within a local park setting, focusing on accessibility and ease. While it does not feature dramatic viewpoints or specific landmarks, its charm lies in providing a simple, enjoyable walk. It is a great option if you are seeking a brief, uncomplicated outdoor activity to clear your head or get some light exercise in a community green space.
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Hike the easy 3.8-mile Big Glassy and Little Glassy Mountain Trails Loop for scenic views and a visit to the Carl Sandburg Home.
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Hike the easy 1.5-mile Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail in The Park at Flat Rock, featuring rain gardens, a pollinator garden, and a nature pavili
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Little Glassy Mountain Trail is an easy 1.7-mile hike at Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, offering 203 feet of elevation gain.
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Hike the Oklawaha Greenway, a 6.5-mile moderate trail through diverse landscapes, wetlands, and forests, with a boardwalk over a natural swa
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Tips from the Community
More like a walk vs hike but good place to get some exercise in if you live close by.
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Glassy, or Glassy Mountain (not to be confused with its neighbor Little Glassy Mountain), is a 2,783-foot peak situated in the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site in Flat Rock, North Carolina. The trail accessing the peak is well-maintained and easy to follow, and the summit itself is an awesome viewpoint.
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The Oklawaha Greenway in Hendersonville, North Carolina, is a completely paved path open to bikers, runners, and walkers. The path follows along a creek for the majority of the trail while passing parks and crossing bridges. This is a really popular trail that has great signage, multiple trailheads, and access to other trails along the way.
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The Oklawaha Greenway in Hendersonville, North Carolina, is a completely paved path open to bikers, runners, and walkers. The path follows along a creek for the majority of the trail while passing parks and crossing bridges. This is a really popular trail that has great signage, multiple trailheads, and access to other trails along the way.
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The Park at Flat Rock has pavilions, playgrounds, a ton of open space, and walking/running trails. The village of Flat Rock manages the park, which is open during daylight all year long. The path circling the entire park is known as the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail, but there are various other trails cutting through the park that are well maintained as well.
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The Memminger Trail Loop is a nature trail traveling around Front Lake and Little Glassy Mountain in the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site. The loop is mostly locked in the forest after passing the lake, but there are some sporadic views when there are breaks in the trees.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there easy, family-friendly hikes in Hendersonville?
Yes, Hendersonville has several great options for families. For a very flat and accessible walk, consider the Ed Lastein Perimeter Trail loop at The Park at Flat Rock. It's a well-maintained path perfect for all ages. Another excellent choice is the Memminger Trail Loop, which offers a gentle walk through the woods at the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Many trails in the Hendersonville area are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. The Park at Flat Rock is a particularly popular spot for dog walkers. Trails in DuPont State Recreational Forest and Pisgah National Forest generally welcome leashed dogs, but always check specific trailhead regulations before you start your hike.
Where can I find hikes with waterfalls?
The region is famous for its waterfalls, especially within DuPont State Recreational Forest. You can find several cascades there, including the well-known Triple Falls and High Falls. In Pisgah National Forest, Looking Glass Falls is a stunning waterfall that is easily accessible from the road, while the trail to Moore Cove Falls offers a rewarding hike to a unique, free-falling cascade you can walk behind.
Which trails offer the best scenic views?
For panoramic mountain vistas, the trail to the summit of Bearwallow Mountain is a local favorite, offering nearly 360-degree views. For a much shorter walk with a big payoff, the Jump Off Rock trail provides stunning views of the Blue Ridge and Pisgah mountains, especially at sunset.
What are some popular places for hiking around Hendersonville?
Hikers have several highly-regarded areas to explore. Key destinations include:
- DuPont State Recreational Forest: A massive and popular preserve known for its multiple waterfalls and extensive trail network.
- Pisgah National Forest: Offers a more rugged experience with trails leading to mountain summits and lush forests.
- Jump Off Rock: A well-loved scenic overlook with a few short, easy-to-moderate trails offering fantastic views.
- Bearwallow Mountain Trail: A top-rated trail leading to a grassy summit with panoramic vistas.
Are there any challenging day hikes available?
Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous hike, the trails in Pisgah National Forest offer significant challenges. The hike up Looking Glass Rock is a tough but rewarding climb that provides spectacular views from its granite dome. The Art Loeb Trail, a portion of which is accessible from the area, is a well-known long-distance trail for experienced backpackers and strong day hikers.
What is the Oklawaha Greenway like for hiking?
The Oklawaha Greenway is a paved, multi-use path that is perfect for a long, gentle walk. It follows Mud Creek through wetlands, meadows, and forests, offering great opportunities for birdwatching. With minimal elevation change, it's suitable for all fitness levels and provides a peaceful nature walk close to town.
What kind of trails are at the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site?
The Carl Sandburg Home offers several miles of trails that are popular for their moderate inclines and beautiful woodland setting. The Big Glassy Trail & Little Glassy Mountain Trail loop is a favorite, leading you up to the summit of Big Glassy Mountain for a nice view of the surrounding landscape. The trails are well-maintained and offer a mix of easy and moderate options.
Is it possible to see wildlife while hiking?
Yes, the forests around Hendersonville are rich with wildlife. It's common to see white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, squirrels, and a wide variety of birds. Black bears also inhabit the Pisgah National Forest. While sightings are not guaranteed, it's important to be bear-aware: store food properly, make noise while you hike, and know what to do if you encounter one. Never feed or approach wildlife.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails in Hendersonville?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the incredible diversity of the trails, from the stunning waterfalls in DuPont State Forest to the panoramic mountain views from summits like Bearwallow Mountain. The well-maintained paths and accessibility for different skill levels are also frequently mentioned.
Is parking generally available at the trailheads?
Most popular trailheads, such as those in DuPont State Recreational Forest and for major peaks like Bearwallow Mountain, have designated parking areas. However, these lots can fill up very quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. It is always best to arrive early in the morning to secure a spot. Some smaller or less-trafficked trailheads may have limited roadside parking.
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