Hiking Trail in Burke, North Carolina

15 found · ← All categories in Burke

Updated October 31, 2026

Babel Tower Trail

Hiking Trail

McDowell County, NC

Babel Tower Trail offers a strenuous 2.5-mile hike with roughly 1,300 feet of elevation change, Linville Gorge views, and Linville River access.

  • Experienced hikers seeking a short but very strenuous hike
  • Hikers wanting Linville Gorge and Linville River views
  • Hikers comfortable with rocky terrain, roots, steep elevation changes, and a short class-three climb

Pinnacle Trailhead

Hiking Trail

Burke County, NC

Pinnacle Financial Partners offers personal, business and wealth management services, including mortgages, treasury management and financial planning.

  • Personal deposit accounts and consumer loans
  • Business banking with treasury management
  • Mortgage services

Shortoff Mountain

Hiking Trail

Burke County, NC

Shortoff Mountain offers a free, strenuous hike from Nebo to summit vistas overlooking Lake James and Linville Gorge.

  • Hikers seeking a strenuous four-mile round trip
  • Visitors wanting multiple overlooks of Lake James and Linville Gorge
  • Hikers planning to continue toward Table Rock

Other categories in Burke

Hiking Trail in nearby counties

FAQ

Which Burke-area trail is free to access?

Shortoff Mountain offers free access from the Wolf Pit Trailhead.

Are these trails suitable for beginners?

Neither listed trail is described as easy. Shortoff Mountain is a strenuous four-mile round trip, while Babel Tower includes steep elevation changes, rocky terrain, and a short class-three climb.

Do the trailheads have restrooms?

The enrichment information indicates that both Babel Tower and Shortoff Mountain trailheads lack restroom facilities.

What should hikers bring for Shortoff Mountain in hot weather?

Hikers should bring ample water, a hat, and sunscreen; the trail has exposed summit areas and strenuous terrain.

What are the access roads like?

Babel Tower is reached via the generally maintained unpaved Old NC Highway 105, while Shortoff Mountain is at the end of an approximately 6.5-mile unpaved Wolf Pit Road.