Whiteside Mountain Winter Hike: A Captivating 2nd Adventure in Western North Carolina

On Friday, October 23, 2020, my younger son and I set out for a fog‑soaked but beautifully colorful hike on Whiteside Mountain, tucked between Cashiers and Highlands, North Carolina. The foliage was warm and vibrant, yet every overlook was swallowed by thick, impenetrable fog. I left that day promising myself I’d return when the views finally revealed themselves.

Fast‑forward to January 2026: I was back in the area with my older son’s family, and this time we made Whiteside Mountain a priority. On the second day of the new year, under bright sunshine and brisk winter air, we pulled into an almost full parking lot—a reminder of just how popular this trail is. Its appeal is easy to understand: a short 2‑mile loop, moderate effort, a gentle 500‑foot elevation gain, and famously stunning vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains that do not fail to captivate both young and old.

The path itself is well maintained, though winter had left icy patches tucked into the shaded sections, so we took our time navigating those slick spots. The payoff was extraordinary. At last, the sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains stretched out before us—crisp, clear, and absolutely worth the wait. I’m so glad I returned. Whiteside Mountain is a hike that rewards you every step of the way.

If You Go

Location: Whiteside Mountain is located between Cashiers and Highlands, North Carolina, along U.S. 64. The trailhead is easy to find and well‑signed.
Parking: There is a $3 parking fee, payable by credit card at the kiosk. The lot fills quickly on weekends and holidays, so arriving early or later in the afternoon helps.
Facilities: Restrooms are available at the trailhead.
Trail Details: The loop is roughly 2 miles with a 500‑foot elevation gain. It is moderate and is well maintained.
Seasonal Notes: In winter, expect icy patches in shaded areas. In summer and fall, this trail is extremely popular—plan for crowds.
Best Views: Clear days offer sweeping panoramas of the Blue Ridge Mountains. If fog rolls in, the trail is still beautiful, but the overlooks may be obscured.
Safety: Wear sturdy shoes, especially in colder months. Keep children close near cliffside areas, as some sections have steep drop‑offs. I found my hiking stick useful in a couple of sections.
Timing: The loop typically takes 1–2 hours, depending on pace and photo stops.