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4 Boone hikes with amazing views (from easy to strenuous!)

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We selected four of our favorite Boone hikes – easy, medium and strenuous

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Moses Cone Memorial Park – Flat Top Tower Trail – easy

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A great hike leading up to a fire tower and a broad vista over the mountains. Start at Moses Cone and go under the ramp to your left.

This hike starts in the forest and leads to a beautiful open space. After you cross the open area (a great place for a picnic), the hike goes up through the woods and leads to the fire tower at the top.

The entire hike is 5.3 miles (two ways), but the path is not very steep, and the trail is very well maintained.

Head to downtown Blowing Rock afterward and grab a bite at Blowing Rock Market or treat yourself to an artisanal coffee at Camp Coffee Roasters.

Find more details on the hike here.
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Rough Ridge Trail – medium

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This is the trail you can’t skip when coming to Boone – and it never gets boring.

Along the 0.8-mile steep uphill trail, you will come to a series of extraordinary stone overlooks and see long-range views of Grandfather Mountain.

Don’t forget to take your camera, so that you can take a picture of one of the most photographed spots in the high country.

Your Boone stay won’t be complete without capturing this memory.

Look on Boone Explore for more detailed information on this hike.
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Elk Knob Park – easy and medium

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Within a 30-minute drive from Boone, you arrive at Elk Knob Park.

At the parking lot, you can find a map with lots of different hikes.

From an easy 1-mile kids trail to the Summit Trail, that goes up to one of the highest peaks of our High Country (5,520 feet!).

Take this last one if you are ready for some serious views. You will hike on a well-maintained, slightly steep trail and will be rewarded with not one, but two amazing views at the top: the Northern and Southern view.

This hike is definitely doable if you are in good health and wear decent shoes. The hike is 1.9 miles one way.

Find more details on the hike and the location here.
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Profile Trail – Grandfather Mountain – strenuous

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Are you ready for some serious action? The Profile Trail is definitely more strenuous (you probably want to rest a few times along the way), but will reward you with an endless supply of scenery.

Climb ladders, cross rivers, pass waterfalls, take in the view of Grandfather Mountain’s profile, and simply enjoy one of the oldest trails on this mountain (over 20 years old).

Make sure you dress well, bring plenty of water and snacks, and fill in a permit at the beginning of the trail (at the shelter on the parking area).

Insiders tip: only want to do half the trail? Arrange for someone to pick you up at the top of the trail (inside of Grandfather Mountain State Park). Just let the ticket booth know, and you may not have to pay the entrance fee.

You can find more information and the location of the trail here.
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