6 Favorite Hiking Trails Near Morganton, NC

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains is the town of Morganton, North Carolina. The town’s nickname is nature’s playground; and with good reason. There are plenty of trails ranging from easy to hard in the area. If you’re ready to hit the great outdoors, here are some of our favorite hiking trails in the area.

1: Shortoff Mountain

Fifteen miles northwest of town, you’ll find Shortoff Mountain. The trail to get there is 5.5 miles total, but this is considered a moderate hike. You can expect to gain 1,200 feet in elevation on your way out and coming down on your way back.

Once you’ve made it, you’ll take in the beauty of the land below you. Shortoff is a reasonably popular trail in the area due to the views at the end.

2: Fonta Flora Trail Loop

Fonta Flora is a loop trail open from April to December. The loop is only 3.7 miles in length, and you’ll gain a little over 300 feet in elevation.

This path offers forest, river, and mountain views all in one. While this is considered a moderate hike, it is still considered kid and dog friendly.

3: Catawba River Greenway

This trail is located right in town. Catawba River Greenway is an easy hike for people of all ages and skill levels. You’ll walk a paved path, and there are bathrooms on the way.

This simple out and back trail is 4.2 miles long, and you’ll only gain 150 feet in elevation.

4: Little Table Rock Trail

If you’re looking for a challenging hike, this is the one for you. One of the more strenuous hikes in the area, it is very steep and narrow in certain spots.

Even though it’s only 2.7 miles, the trail is not marked, so you’ll need to use a map to navigate. You’ll hike close to 1,300 feet, but once you get to the top, the view is breathtaking.

5: Linville River

Linville River is an out and back trail that is 8.2 miles long. Of all the hikes listed, you’ll gain the most elevation with this one at over 1,800 feet.

You can expect to see wildflowers and even a waterfall on the trail. You can hike the entire thing in one day, but be sure to pack lots of water and snacks.

6: Sitting Bear Mountain

From your starting point, it is 3.2 miles to Sitting Bear Mountain and back. You’ll gain close to 900 feet in elevation for this hike. The path is not marked, which can make it tricky to navigate.

Once you make it to the top, you’ll enjoy views of the Linville Gorge Wilderness area. You’ll also find several overlooks on your way to the top.

Nature’s playground has so much to offer. From easy trails to hikes up a mountain, you’ll love every minute you get to spend outside. Here at Cloninger Ford, we understand the importance of trust. You need to trust yourself while you hike, and you need a vehicle you can trust to get you there and back safely. Stop by Cloninger Ford today for the next car you’ll trust to take you anywhere.

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