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Johnathan Duncan

Studying Engineering at NC State. I love people, nature and exploring.

This is an amazing hike... and probably the most dangerous one I have ever hiked. It offers gorgeous views of Zion National Park. Only downside is that it can become crowded from the sheer number of people trying to complete a difficult trail. The last portion out to the landing will take the longest because of this, depending on what time of year you go.

The waterfall is pretty awesome and if you visit in the winter you'll get to experience it frozen which was pretty cool! It is a really short hike so it can be crowded and isn't a day activity because of the short distance.

This is an amazing hike and gives you a chance to explore Fontana Dam and experience epic views of the Fontana Lake from Shuckstack. It is a bit strenuous, but being only 3.5 miles to the tower, it is fairly easy to complete if you are in good shape. I went with my grandfather and he did not slow us down too much(though he used to be an avid hiker). All in all a fantastic hike!

Thunderbird Falls is a short out and back hike that offers some views of the Eklunta Canyon and the falls. If you go during the winter be very careful of ice(you'll need crampons) as it is slick especially traveling down towards the falls. Parking is $5.

It isn't a very far hike from the parking lot, but offers some awesome views of the Alaskan Mountains. If you go in the winter, Hatchers Pass is filled with snow and is a great spot for skiing, sledding and other winter sports. The mine and visitor center is closed during the winter, but you can still explore and check them out. A beautiful area!

This is a really short hike, but is also really steep the entire way up. Paved trail most of the way, if not all the way. Offers fantastic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Charlies Bunion is an amazing 8-mile hike and offers amazing views of the Smokies. There is a trail shelter along the way, Ice Water Springs, if you want to plan a trip in this area. Just be warned this is a very popular shelter and you will most likely not be the only people there. Pretty steady ascent, but gets better the further you go!

This isn't really hike, but offers some of the most spectacular views of the mountains. It is often crowded and sometimes can be closed because of bad weather so be sure to check before heading up there

This hike is absolutely amazing and I have completed it many times. Expect to scramble up some rocks towards the end and if you bring small children with you keep a close eye. If there is snow on the trail make sure you have proper footwear or it will be miserable(first hand experience). This hike offers some beautiful views of the Great Smokies.

This hike is short, maybe a little over a mile, but offers one of the best views of the Nantahala Forest. The trail ascends at a steady incline, but is very manageable. The tower is an awesome place to view the surrounding mountains and if it isn't a busy season or too windy, it can be a cool spot to camp. Just don't put a fire on top of the tower, as you will see where others have already done the same and have burnt holes in the platform. There also is a trail shelter about a mile farther down the trail, but expect it to be full if thru hikers are around.