Top Accessible Hikes in Blowing Rock for Every Traveler

Blowing Rock is not just a beautiful mountain town but also offers some fantastic accessible hiking experiences which are accessible for those with mobility challenges.

Whether you’re in a wheelchair, using a mobility aid, or just prefer a more relaxed walk, the area offers some truly accessible paths. Let’s explore a few of the best trails where you can enjoy nature’s beauty without the worry of rough terrain holding you back.

Here are the top accessible hikes in Blowing Rock, perfect for all levels.

Hiking Responsibly: A Hiker’s Duty to Nature

It’s important to remember that accessible hiking is not just about adventure—it’s also about respecting the land that gives us so much. Being a mindful hiker means more than just knowing where the best views are; it’s about understanding our responsibility to protect these beautiful places.

This means staying safe, respecting nature, and being considerate of fellow hikers.

It’s not only about leaving no trace—it’s about leaving a positive impact. That means sticking to marked trails, picking up any litter that you see, and simply taking the time to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds us.

By doing this, we ensure these trails remain preserved for the next person to enjoy the beauty and wonder that is nature.

Price Lake Loop Trail

Price Lake Loop Trail, located at Julian Price Park in Blowing Rock, NC, Not only is it a fan favorite for walking and accessible hiking but also serves as a popular spot for birding, camping, and reflection by the water’s edge.

The blend of lake reflections and the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains create a picture-perfect mountain getaway setting, whether you’re pitching a tent for a weekend getaway or simply seeking a soul-soothing hike.

---

Trail Information

Difficulty of trail: Easy
Terrain: This is a nice relatively flat trail. It is mostly paved with some gravel areas.
Length: 2.2 miles
Duration: 42 minutes
Elevation gain: 72 feet
Best time of year to visit: March through October
Best time of day by season:

• Spring (March to May)
  • 7:00am – 10:00am
    4:00pm – 6:00pm
• Summer (June to August)
  • 6:00am – 8:00am
    5:00pm – 7:00pm
• Fall (September to October)
  • 8:00am to 11:00am
    3:00pm to 5:00pm

Accessibility

Price Lake Loop Trail in North Carolina is generally considered to be a gentle and relatively accessible trail. However, it has gravel, dirt, and exposed roots.

Children:

• Ages 0-3: Might be a bit much for the youngest explorers. The trail isn’t too rugged, but a sturdy stroller or baby carrier would be the way to go.
• Ages 4-6: Little legs can handle this one with breaks. The lake’s views might spark their imagination – just watch them near the water’s edge.
• Ages 7+: This age range should enjoy the trail! Enough to explore, not too strenuous, and a good length for a rewarding family adventure.

Dogs:

This trail is generally considered to be dog-friendly! Just make sure your pup is on a leash.

Map + directions

Getting There: 

Start your journey at the parking area located at Price Lake Overlook, found at milepost 296.7 on the mesmerizing Blue Ridge Parkway. If it’s a busy day and you’re in need of more parking, no worries! Simply follow the signs leading to the boat ramp and amphitheatre where additional parking and trail access are waiting for you.

Click here for directions.

Trail Directions

1. Start at Price Lake Overlook.
2. Go left over the bridge.
3. Follow the trail into the woods.
4. Note beaver signs on trees and muddy areas near the back of the lake.
5. Follow the flat trail around the lake.
6. Walk through the campground area.
7. Return to the parking area.

Cone Manor, Bass Lake Trail, & the Maze Loop

The Cone Manor to Bass Lake Trail near Blowing Rock, North Carolina, is a favorite for birding, fishing, and hiking. Bass Lake Trail is a family favorite because of the easy gradient and length perfect for little legs and mobility devices to navigate the trail easily.. Connecting the historic Cone Manor to Bass Lake, this path passes through woodlands and meadows, offering a glimpse of local flowers and trees,

Whether you’re an avid adventurer or seeking a peaceful escape, the trail’s blend of history and natural beauty makes it a popular choice in the area.

Trail Information

Difficulty of trail: Moderate
Terrain: The length of the trail is the only thing that classifies this as a moderate difficulty trail.
Length: 6.3 miles
Duration: 2 hours 20 minutes
Elevation gain: 508 feet
Best time of year to visit: March through October
Best time of day by season:

• Spring (March to May)
  • 7:00am – 10:00am
    4:00pm – 6:00pm
• Summer (June to August)
  • 6:00am – 8:00am
    5:00pm – 7:00pm
• Fall (September to October)
  • 8:00am to 11:00am
    3:00pm to 5:00pm

Accessibility

The trail is partially paved with the rest being gravel and dirt trails. Another thing to assess is the length of the trail.

Children:

• Ages 0-3: Might be a bit much for the youngest explorers. The trail isn’t too rugged, but a sturdy stroller or baby carrier would be the way to go.
• Ages 4-6: Little legs can handle this one with breaks. The lake’s views might spark their imagination – just watch them near the water’s edge.
• Ages 7+: This age range should enjoy the trail! Enough to explore, not too strenuous, and a good length for a rewarding family adventure.

Dogs:

This trail is generally considered to be dog-friendly! Just make sure your furry friends are on a leash.

Map + directions

Getting There: 

Situated in the Cone Memorial Park near Blowing Rock, North Carolina, the trailhead can be accessed via the Blue Ridge Parkway. Look for signs pointing to Cone Manor, and you’ll find ample parking available.

From there, you can follow the well-marked paths in a counter-clockwise direction that will lead you to the beautiful Bass Lake, inviting you on a journey that’s both serene and engaging.

Click here for directions.

Trail Directions

1. After you have parked at Cone Manor, follow the signposts to hike the trail counterclockwise until you loop back to Cone Manor.

The Glen Burney Trail

The Glen Burney Trail can be a perfect escape within a day accessible just minutes from the downtown Blowing Rock area. It is one of the accessible hikes within miles of Chetola.

The Glen Burney Trail in North Carolina provides access to three distinct scenic areas: the Cascades, Glen Burney Falls, and Glen Marie Falls. 

The easiest and most accessible trail are the Cascades with the Glen Burney Falls and Glen Marie Falls gradually getting much more difficult.

Trail Information

Difficulty of trail: Easy to Moderate to Strenuous
Terrain: The trail begins with an easy downhill path to the Cascades but becomes more challenging as it leads to Glen Burney and Glen Marie Falls, especially on the uphill return journey.
Length: 3.3 miles
Duration: 1 hours 14 minutes
Elevation gain: 538 feet
Type: Out and back
Best time of year to visit: March through October
Best time of day by season:

• Spring (March to May)
  • 7:00am – 10:00am
    4:00pm – 6:00pm
• Summer (June to August)
  • 6:00am – 8:00am
    5:00pm – 7:00pm
• Fall (September to October)
  • 8:00am to 11:00am
    3:00pm to 5:00pm

Accessibility

Cascades:
The Cascades portion of the Glen Burney trail can be uneven and may require careful navigation. Exposed
roots and rocks are on nearly all of the trail. This can be navigated with mobility aids such as a cane and good
balance.

Glen Burney Falls:
Similar to the Cascades section, the path to Glen Burney Falls includes steeper and potentially more
challenging terrain. Personally, I found this part to be challenging using a cane and with some balance issues.

Glen Marie Falls: This is the most demanding part of the hike, with steeper inclines and potentially slippery areas.
Personally, I probably shouldn’t have done this one because it was ridiculously hard even for my able bodied 13
year old son. Pure willpower and stubbornness.

Children

• Cascades:
  • Ages 4-12: Suitable with proper guidance. A mild challenge but a rewarding experience.
  • Ages 13+: An engaging adventure. Perfect for teenagers looking to explore nature.
• Glen Burney Falls
  • Ages 7-12: Feasible but demanding. Proper hiking equipment and guidance needed.
  • Ages 13+: Suitable for teenagers seeking a bit more challenge. Good footwear essential.
• Glen Marie Falls
  • Ages 9-12: Attempt with caution. This section is more strenuous and should be undertaken with proper preparation.
  • Ages 13+: Suited for teens with hiking experience. Expect a rewarding but demanding hike.

Dogs

• Cascades:
  • Likely suitable for dogs, especially if they are used to hiking. Be mindful of the terrain, which can be uneven.
• Glen Burney Falls
  • Also likely suitable for dogs that are comfortable with a longer hike. Some steeper and potentially slippery sections may require extra care.
• Glen Marie Falls
  • This section may be the most challenging for dogs, especially smaller or less experienced ones. Consider your dog’s abilities, as this is the most demanding part of the hike.

Map + directions

Getting There:

Located just a half-mile from the Blue Ridge Parkway Moses Cone trails in Blowing Rock, the Glen Burney Trail offers easy public access. It’s situated in town, near Mayview Lake and Annie Cannon Park at 243 Laurel Ln, Blowing Rock, NC 28605.

Click here for directions.

Trail Directions: 

1. After parking at the above address, turn left at the start of the trail.
2. Follow the trail markers in and back out from the trail.

Get Your Boots on!

Blowing Rock offers some of the most beautiful and accessible hiking trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains, perfect for all skill levels and abilities.

Whether you’re strolling around Bass Lake, enjoying the peacefulness of Price Lake, or venturing onto the Moses H. Cone Carriage Trails, there’s a path for everyone to explore and enjoy.

Check out the complete guide with the top 10 best hikes around Blowing Rock, North Carolina.

Want more accessible travel tips and inspiration? Make sure to join the tribe at Phoenyx Travels and receive the latest!