Wittenburg is a public boat ramp but also has a one-mile hiking trail. It's scenic, has bridges, and you can see the lake from the trail. It is the easiest and closest trail.
Difficulty 1/5
Appeal 1/5
There are 20 intersecting trails here, including 1.5 miles along the Catawba River. This hike can be as easy and short or as long and challenging as you would like. You can also ride mountain bikes here, but some trails are steep.
Difficulty 2-3/5
Appeal 3/5
You will hike to the top of this small mountain, and the views are spectacular. There are three trails to the top. The most difficult is called the Vertical Mile. If you hike this trail eight times, you get a free T-shirt. To hike the Vertical Mile, go to the right of the cliffs and follow the trail entrance near the playground. The other two trails begin on the left side of the cliffs at the bottom of a staircase. All paths lead to the top of Rocky Face.
If you go to Rocky Face, you also want to visit the Yellow Deli just a few miles away. Make sure to see both the restaurant and the store. Reasonable prices and great food. Be sure to try the cornbread.
Difficulty 4.5/5
Appeal 4.5/5
This park is in Hickory. It is also lakefront. It has a 1.5-mile paved walking path. It also has two mountain bike trails. One is easy and short for beginners; the other is challenging and dangerous. You can hike both trails; be on the lookout for bikers. There are also tennis courts in the upper parking area.
Difficulty 3/5
Appeal 3/5
It is my favorite spot, and it needs to be better known. There are several areas for swimming, but the water is cold. This hike takes between an hour and three hours, depending on how much you stop for photos and waterfalls. You can also visit Linville Falls, one of North Carolina's most spectacular and well-known waterfalls.
Difficulty 3/5
Appeal 4.5/5
Address: 1015 2nd St. NE Ste 213
Hickory, NC 28601
Phone: (828) 999-2476
Email: Casey@getlocalwithcasey.com
Mon - Fri: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sat - Sun: By appointment only
Public Holidays: By appointment only
License #: 305902
Firm License: C-33978