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Take the NC 100 Mile Hiking Challenge in 2018

hiking trails near Asheville NC

Every year, North Carolina State Parks challenges every state resident to complete 100 miles of physical activity.  It’s a great opportunity to get outside and enjoy the natural beauty and resources North Carolina is known for.  And of course you reap many health benefits as well, such as stress reduction, improved muscle mass, weight loss, better sleep and even disease prevention.

There are 42 trails close to The Coves Mountain River Club that offer not only the exercise you need but amazing views of the waterfalls of Western North Carolina and some of the area’s other most spectacular features.

So why not use this opportunity to become familiar with some of the popular hiking trails near Asheville NC?  Even if it’s just one or two miles to begin with, what’s important is that you’re getting started and participating.

Go to nc100miles.org to sign up for the 2018 “100-Mile Challenge” and start logging your progress.

Here are some rules to keep in mind.  Be sure your footwear is sturdy, comfortable and well broken-in before you hit the trail.  Choose the right activity for your fitness level.  Bring a map.  Know the weather forecast and dress accordingly.  Take sunscreen, bug repellent, a hat, sunglasses, snacks and water.  For safety, hike or bike with a friend or family member.  Otherwise, let someone know where you’re going and when you should be back.  Finally, respect your surroundings, others in the park and the wildlife.

While you’re in Lenoir looking for North Carolina land for sale, plan a side trip to one of our three beautiful state parks:  Grandfather Mountain, Lake James and South Mountains.  You can find wonderful trails that accommodate any level of physical strength and stamina.

Grandfather Mountain State Park offers Nuwati Trail, which is peaceful and soothing, mildly challenging and good for all ages.  You’ll get a spectacular view of the Boone Bowl and Calloway Peak from Storyteller’s Rock.  Profile Trail is a longer and more strenuous walk, and Grandfather Trail is recommended only for very advanced hikers.

The Overmountain Victory Trail at Lake James State Park follows the route taken by American patriots who shadowed a force of marauding British loyalists across three states until they finally engaged in battle at King’s Mountain.  It’s an easy hike, mostly shaded under mature forest canopy.  Beginner and intermediate level bikers will like the Upper Tindo and West Winda Loops.

At South Mountains State Park, hikers often combine Possum Trail with Chestnut Knob Trail for a 7.7 mile loop that reaches the highest point of the park and includes a view of one of the loveliest waterfalls of western North Carolina, High Shoals Falls.  Also check out the Benn Knob, Horseridge, and Fox Trails.

The many hiking trails near Asheville NC make it easy to walk and stay in shape because there’s so much to explore that you never run out of surprises.  People who seek North Carolina land for sale know they’re buying a lifestyle that’s wonderfully different from the one they’ve been accustomed to. 

With so many ways to become and remain active – and the year-round mild weather – our residents at The Coves Mountain River Club find that the Lenoir area’s many attractions can keep them as busy as they want to be.

We look forward to your visit.  Find us on the Johns River near Wilson Creek with plenty of access to swimming, fishing, tubing and other water-related activities. Explore our four waterfalls, two community gardens and 16 miles of award winning hiking trails within our community.

There is no better way to immerse yourself in the splendor of the surroundings here in the foothills of North Carolina than to choose a trail, set off on an invigorating hike and begin your “100-Mile Challenge”.

If you’re exploring the area for the first time, ask for our 84 page Complimentary Magazine.

Exploring the area for the first time?

Let us know & ask for our 70 page Complimentary Magazine.

The Coves Mountain River Club magazine