6 of the Best Hikes in the US Southeast Region
Being outdoors does wonders for your soul and can be a really therapeutic experience. Read on for six of the best hikes in the US Southeast.
Combining outdoors with physical exercise through hiking has been something I’ve found really fills my soul and helps me feel more at peace.
Today, I’m going to share with you six of my favorites hikes in the Southeast that you should definitely try if you live in the South or if you ever visit the area!
This post is going to help you learn about six of the best hikes in the US Southeast Region.
1. Chimney Tops at Great Smoky Mountain National Park
Great Smoky Mountain National Park is a beautiful hiking and camping destination located throughout Tennessee and North Carolina.
We camped in the part of the park near Gatlinburg, Tennessee and our favorite hike by far was Chimney Tops. This hike is relatively short – 3.8 miles – but it is a heck of a leg workout!
You will climb uphill and lots of stairs to reach the highest elevation of 4753 Feet. But the work you put in during the hike is so worth it!
At it’s peak this hike has stunning panoramic views that will make the journey feel so worth it. I recommend doing this hike during the Fall when the leaves will turn beautiful shades of yellow, orange, and red resulting in a colorful landscape.
Once you make it to the top, you’ll have a much easier time on the way down because it’ll be all downhill from there.
Hike Breakdown:
- Miles Roundtrip: 3.8
- Elevation: 4753 Feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated Time: 3 hours
- Directions
2. Table Rock Trail at Table Rock State Park
Table Rock State Park is located in South Carolina. The Table Rock Trail is strenuous, with rewarding view at the peak.
Be sure to pack lots of water and snacks to stay hydrated to keep your energy up throughout the duration of the hike.
Dogs are allowed on this trail so bring your pup or enjoy seeing lots of cute dogs as you ascend the mountain.
I brought my dog, and she loved it!
Hike Breakdown:
- Miles Roundtrip: 7.2
- Elevation: 3124 feet
- Difficulty: Very strenuous
- Directions
3. Bearfence Mountain Trail at Shenandoah National Park
Not only does this hike provide stunning 360-degree views, but the drive to the hike will take you through the famous Skyline Drive with unforgettable views throughout as you head up the mountain.
There are pull-off areas throughout the drive for you to stop and take pictures or just take in the view.
This trail is one of my favorites because it is a little bit unique in that you will actually climb a rock scramble to reach the peak.
The beginning and end of the loop will be a normal hike at a steep incline, with the rock scramble in the middle to allow you to reach the peak.
Don’t worry, there are colored markers to help you find the best path to climb.
However, definitely make sure you are physically healthy and don’t have any active injuries when making the climb. Additionally, if you have a fear of heights, this hike may pose a little bit of a challenge as well.
This hike is especially rewarding because you’ll be experiencing one of only three 360-degree views in the whole park. As you can see in the photos, the view literally goes on as far as the eye can see. It’s gorgeous.
Hike Breakdown:
- Miles Roundtrip: 1
- Elevation Gain: 311 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated Time: 45-90 minutes
- Directions
4. Boardwalk Loop Trail at Congaree National Park
Congaree National Park is located 30 minutes outside of Columbia, South Carolina.
This trail will lead you into the forest where you’ll be surrounded by great trees and plant life making you feel completely removed from the surrounding civilization.
This trail isn’t too strenuous and will let you take in the peacefulness of nature without it requiring too much hard work. Enjoy a peaceful walk surrounded by trees and nature.
The trail is accessible year-round and features a lake along the hike.
Hike Breakdown:
- Miles Roundtrip: 2.4
- Elevation Gain: 13 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
- Directions
5. Canyon Loop Trail at Providence Canyon State Park
Providence Canyon State Park is located near Lumpkin, Georgia and is known as the “Little Grand Canyon” because of it’s extensive canyons and expansive views.
This loop will take you through the nine canyons in the park and also lead you to the stunning views from the top as well.
Be sure to wear hiking boots or water proof shoes because the trail can be really muddy in spots and it’ll be helpful to have good, steady footing (and will also prevent you from ruining your brand new sneakers).
Hike Breakdown:
- Miles Roundtrip: 2.5
- Estimated Time: 2 hours, but also allow for time to explore
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Directions
6. Rainbow Falls at Jones Gap State Park
Jones Gap State Park is located in Northwest South Carolina. The Rainbow Falls Trail is one of my favorites because it features a gorgeous waterfall and granite walls.
Dogs are allowed on this trail as well so it’s a great hike if your looking to bring your dog with you.
Be sure to have hiking boots because some of the rocks may get slick from the waterfall.
This trail is near Greenville, South Carolina if you want to make a weekend trip of it and enjoy the restaurants, breweries, and culture that downtown Greenville brings as well.
Hike Breakdown:
- Miles Roundtrip: 5
- Elevation Gain: 1207 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Directions
Those are six of the best hikes in the US Southeast Region!
I hope you try one of these or that this post inspires you to discover a new hike near you!
Use hiking to reduce stress and find your inner peace. Whether you live in the southeast or are making a trip of it, try one of these amazing hikes in the US Southeast Region.
Comment below if you try any of these hikes or have other favorites you’d like to share 🙂
