Each summer, Montreat Conference Center’s wilderness rangers offer a variety of free guided hikes for the public. Hikes are typically offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays and range in difficulty and length, covering all sorts of terrain throughout the Montreat Wilderness and offering something for everyone to enjoy. If you are interested in exploring God’s creation this summer, this is a great opportunity to do so! Keep reading to learn more about this offering and see our recommendations for enjoying Montreat’s trails.
Our Public Hikes are divided into half-day and full-day outings. Half-day hikes depart from the Montreat Nature Center (located at 301 Lookout Rd.) at 9:00 am and are designed to return in time for Clubs pick-up at noon. Full-day hikes also depart from the Montreat Nature Center at 9:00 am and usually return in the mid-to-late afternoon, so don’t forget to pack a lunch! It’s always a good idea to check in with staff at the Montreat Nature Center in advance of a hike to make sure you are prepared for the trek.
This year, we will be leading 17 guided hikes. Trails and vistas include Lookout Mountain, Rattlesnake Rock, Graybeard Mountain, The East Ridge, and Seven Sisters, among others. A complete schedule can be found on our website by clicking here.
Two highlights include The Annual Perimeter Hike and the Mount Mitchell hike. The perimeter hike is a Fourth of July week tradition which tops nearly every peak in the Montreat valley. It is a very challenging hike, covering 16 miles in total, and is recommended for strong hikers only. Meanwhile, the hike to Mount Mitchell offers attendees the opportunity to ascend the highest peak east of the Mississippi River – starting right here in Montreat! While a little tough, it is an extremely rewarding hike. A reservation is required in order to attend, and hikers are responsible for arranging their own transportation back to Montreat from Mount Mitchell. Stop by the Montreat Nature Center to learn more!
For all hikes, we highly recommend wearing sturdy, well-broken-in hiking shoes. You’ll also want to bring plenty of water, snacks, sun protection/rain gear, and bug spray. It also never hurts to have a physical trail map on hand. Trail maps can be obtained from the Montreat Nature Center or The Montreat Store.
It should also be noted that, while anyone is welcome to attend these programs, we do require that those under the age of 13 attend with an adult guardian.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for your next challenge or a family hoping to spend time outdoors together, our public hikes offer a meaningful way to experience the beauty of these mountains and connect with the wonder of God’s creation. We hope you’ll lace up your boots, join us on the trail, and discover why the Montreat Wilderness has inspired Montreat visitors for generations.
This article was originally published in the May 2026 edition of Montreat Conference Center’s email newsletter Stewarding God’s Creation which highlights information related to the Montreat Wilderness. Sign up to receive Stewarding God’s Creation directly in your inbox by clicking here.