Canton
About this place
Canton, North Carolina offers a variety of top activities and attractions that are perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway. From scenic hikes on nearby trails to must-visit spots in the area, there's something for everyone. For the adventurers, the best trails and activities in and near the area include the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and the Pisgah National Forest. For a more relaxed atmosphere, visitors can enjoy the Nantahala National Forest, the Cataloochee Ski Area, and the Cherokee National Forest. There's also the Fontana Lake, which is perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. Whatever your preference, Canton, North Carolina has something to offer for everyone.
Top Spots in and near Canton, North Carolina, United States
Sam Knob Trailhead
4.9
· 9 reviews
This is one of my favorite quick "getaway" loops in the Pisgah Ranger District. Turn onto Black Balsam Knob Road (Mile Marker 420 on the Blue Ridge Parkway) go until you reach a dead end and park at the parking lot. You'll see the Sam Knob trail to the right of the public bathrooms. From there, it's...
Shining Rock Trailhead
4.3
· 4 reviews
There are several ways to access the Shining Rock Wilderness Area, but go for the main trail head off of Hwy 276. The trail is split by the Pigeon River, providing a seemingly infinite combinations of trails and routes, keeping in mind that this area intersects often with the well known Art Lobe tra...
Black Balsam Knob Road
5.0
· 1 reviews
Park at the Lot at the end of Black Balsam road, and start your morning in the dark, down the old dirt road at the end of the lot. Take this road until you get to Ivestor Gap and make a right onto the Art Loeb, try and time it so the sun is just about to rise here. Hike or trail run The Art Loeb tra...
Looking Glass Falls Overlook Parking Area
4.8
· 6 reviews
Park at the Looking Glass Rock Overlook. After enjoying the view of Looking Glass Rock, gear up and head to the right side of the parking area (right side if your back is to the overlook). On the opposite side of the road you'll see a mile marker and a little trail to the left of the marker. Follow ...
Graveyard Fields
4.4
· 5 reviews
When the weather is in your favor, these treeless mountain tops will have your jaw on the floor with layers upon layers of Blue Ridge Mountains. This hike can be done in one day, but with panoramic views at multiple points, you'll want to take your time along this link of trails. This ~10-mile loop,...
Shining Rock Trailhead
4.0
· 1 reviews
We began this trip by camping overnight in Graveyard Fields. Those camp sites are .5 miles from the car, so we kept our food there over night. Bear activity has increased, so it's strongly advised to bring a bear canister and be wise about food storage. We woke up early the next morning made breakfa...
Canton, NC
5.0
· 2 reviews
The Mt. Pisgah campground is nestled right off of the Blue Ridge Parkway near Canton, NC. Since it is at an elevation of 4,980 feet the campground is a perfect destination to beat the heat and humidity that the region can be known for in the summer months. Reservations and information can be found o...
Graveyard Fields
4.3
· 4 reviews
Graveyard Fields got it's name years ago from wind-thrown tree trunks that gave the appearance of a graveyard, until 1925 when an intense fire swept through the area, destroying the stumps. The forest has been recovering ever since. The parking area for Graveyard Fields is located at milepost 418.8 ...
Fryingpan Tower Parking Area
4.5
· 4 reviews
This is an extremely easy trail with a minimal incline. The tower, built in 1941, standing 70 feet above the summit, can be nerve wracking, even for those who aren't scared of heights. However, most feel it's worth the view. Expect to see fellow hikers. On pretty days there can be a few people waiti...
Canton, NC
This waterfall is right off the side of the road on NC 215. NC 215 is straight off of the blue ridge parkway and is just north of Brevard. The waterfall has to main parts one that is above the road and one that is below. The part below the road is the most scenic and the easiest to walk too. The bot...
Canton, NC
The road to get to this waterfall is right off of NC 215 which comes right off of the Blue Ridge Parkway and is only about 3 miles away from parkway. The parking area is very small and does not offer many parking spots but since it is not that popular of an area parking is usually not a problem. The...
Canton, NC
5.0
· 1 reviews
Sam Knob Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Canton, North Carolina.
Canton, NC
Perched at milepost 418.3 at an elevation around 4,955 ft , East Fork Overlook offers one of the most striking panoramic views along this stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The overlook looks out over the headwaters of the East Fork of the Pigeon River and surrounding ridgelines. What to Expect & Hi...
Canton, NC
Pounding Mill Overlook , situated at milepost 413.2 on the Blue Ridge Parkway , is a top-tier viewpoint offering sweeping panoramic vistas of the Pisgah National Forest and its surrounding peaks. Perched at approximately 4,700 feet elevation , this overlook provides a rare vantage to view Looking Gl...
Canton, NC
Graveyard Ridge Trail and Mountains to Sea Trail Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Canton, North Carolina.