On Jan. 1, hundreds of free, guided “First Day Hikes” take place across all 50 states, run by the country’s state parks.
Pisgah National Forest, named the most popular forest in the U.S. in 2022, is an iconic place to compose your resolutions while walking amidst a streamside forest or meandering alongside an old railroad. Trails are well marked and maintained, and pet friendly.
Want a challenge? Graybeard Mountain trail is a strenuous 5-mile hike and 2,400-foot elevation, but you’ll be rewarded with magnificent, panoramic views … all a mere 10 miles from downtown Asheville and a cold craft beer.
– Eve Lederman, The North Carolina 100