Ever hiked with a «Fabulous Hawk» before? Well, if you’re down for a great day-hike through some of the Blue Ridge Parkway’s most pristine areas — then look no further than the Tanawha(Cherokee for fabulous hawk) Trail! Many years ago, a small section of this footpath near Price Park became my first«trail» — what came after could fill several tomes worth of adventure in the backcountry of America… however, this trail will always remain special to me! You can access the Tanawha from a variety of pull-offs or either terminus near Beacon Heights at one end, and Price Park at the other. The diversity of the trail is mind-boggling — from flat sections that run along Bee Tree Creek to a happy jaunt up Rough Ridge(one of my favorite night-hike spots when I lived in Boone). The mild elevation changes are tolerable by most standards — from mild to slightly strenuous. There is also ample water from a variety of trusty sources(just be sure to filter). If you have the ability, park one vehicle at each end of the trail unless you’re a fan of back-tracking — otherwise 12 miles turns into 24 pretty quickly. If you can arrive early in the day and the weather permits, plan a few activities/stops during you hike. Pack a lunch and picnic in the giant cow-pasture before heading into the blackberry fields(always packed with pickers in season). Take in the views from atop Rough Ridge — just hold on tight, it gets windy up there! Feeling super adventurous? There’s a great spot to repel close to the outcropping near Rough Ridge — message me if you’re interested as to the location. You even have the opportunity to hike beneath the Viaduct as you make your way along the well-kept path. Don’t want your hike to end? No worries! You have access to all Grandfather Mountain Trails if you feel like tacking on a few extra miles. Not enough for you? The MST(Mountains to Sea Trail) piggybacks along the Tanawha… and it will literally take you to the sea from the mountains so pack a lunch! All-in-all this is a great trail that is approachable from nearly all levels of hiking-capability. With numerous sections, loops, and short-outs that will keep you coming back for more!
