The highest peak of the Appalachian Mountains offers several options for the day hiker, usually starting on the road off the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, through a conifer forest, and to the top. An observation tower and snack bar at the summit offer amazing sunset views. Wildflowers are plentiful in the warmer months, and the fall offers an impressive array of fiery golds and reds.
Oklahoma: Black Mesa
A long but relatively flat hike crossing dessert-like scenery, full of eight-foot tall cacti and powdery sandstone. The steepest climb is on the south side of the Mesa, through private lands. Red-tailed hawks and butterflies circle above the trails.
South Carolina: Kings Mountain
Starts at the visitor's center and take the Battlefield Trail, a short loop around British Major Patrick Ferguson's burial site and numerous historic points. For a more challenging day, hike up by following the 16-mile Kings Mountain Hiking Trail, which crosses horse trails and fire towers. Stroll up the manodnocks (small mountains) for views of neighboring flatlands.
Tennessee: Big Frog Mountain Trail
A demanding five-mile hike up the Big Frog Mountain. Make it to the top and you'll be rewarded with clear mountain vistas and crystaline streams. The whole area is a sanctuary for black bears and wild boars, although it is rare you would run into one. For a unique experience, snorkle the Conasauga River or camp in one of the primitive campgrounds in the vicinity.
Texas: Dinosaur Valley
The fossilized dinosaur footprints are the park's main attraction. Over 100-million years old, how many can you see depends on the river level –In spring, some of them are completely covered by the rising waters. A very short trail leads to The Blue Hole, a popular swimming hole that seemingly was just as popular among dinosaurs, if you count on the numerous 3-toed footprints around the ledge. For longer hikes, take the trails that follow the Paluxy River into a high plateau. Enjoy the dessert-like wildlife, with plenty of turtles, lizards and rodents (the cuddly kind).