Winter in Highlands is a perfect time to enjoy the town’s shorter walking trails. With fewer crowds and a crisp, quiet atmosphere, the trails offer a peaceful escape into nature. Whether you're looking for a leisurely walk through frosty woods or a calm stroll by a creek, these easy trails allow you to experience the beauty of Highlands in winter. The stillness of the season and the stunning winter landscape make for a refreshing outdoor experience.
Tucked away at The Bascom in Highlands, NC, the Horst Winkler Nature and Sculpture Trail offers a peaceful walk through nature, featuring native plants, a serene brook, and a cascading waterfall. As you stroll along the trail, you’ll encounter stunning sculptures that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, creating a tranquil and inspiring environment. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, the Horst Winkler Trail is a must-see during your visit to The Bascom.
Highlands Rec Park Trail to Mill Creek Bridge
The Rec Park Trail to Mill Creek Bridge is the perfect hike for when you want to get out in nature and enjoy the beauty and peace of a creek while not venturing too far from town. There are multiple ways to access the Mill Creek Bridge but the easiest way is to pick one of the entrances on Oak Street. Simply follow the trail markers with arrows pointing to Mill Creek. When you hear the rushing water of Mill Creek, you know you are in the right spot. Either take in the view of the creek from the bridge above or continue down the trail a short distance to the bench at the bottom of the creek. This trail is a part of interconnected trails that can also take you to the Highlands Recreation Park or to The Bascom. The entire Rec Park Trail is moderate in difficulty and only 1.1 miles total.
Dixon Woods is located just a short drive from town off of Bowery Road. It is a series of flat interconnected walking trails that are perfect for kids or those just looking for an easy place to get out in nature this winter. When walking these trails, make sure to note the trail blazes so you can easily make it back to where you started. The Dixon Woods trails are great because you can do a short loop or spend a few hours wandering through the series of trails. Or you can simply enjoy sitting at the picnic table by the pond. This place is great if you are looking for peace and quiet, as it is a lesser-known walking location.
The Botanical Gardens are another set of interconnected trails close to town, making it a great place to enjoy nature this winter. The Botanical Gardens feature creeks, a large pond, a boardwalk and serene sitting areas. The garden's trails feature a mix of flat walking trails and trails with an incline. Along the trails, you will find labels for the native plants and animals in the area further enhancing your nature walk. Be sure to stop by the Nature Center for a map of the trails and to learn more about the Botanical Gardens.
A winter walk to Sunset Rock is a peaceful escape just a few hundred yards from downtown. Begin your journey by heading east on Main Street for 0.5 miles toward Horse Cove, parking in the gravel area across from the Nature Center. Follow the signs to the trailhead, and enjoy the crisp mountain air on the 0.5-mile hike up a gravel road. At the top, you're rewarded with stunning views of Highlands and the surrounding peaks. The natural granite amphitheater is the perfect spot to relax and soak in a serene winter sunset.
Before heading out, make sure you're prepared! Click here for important tips on winter hiking safety to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.