Explore the Untamed Beauty of Highlands with Private Wilderness Tours
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness with the ability to handle uneven terrain and steady uphill sections.
Overview
Discover the raw natural beauty of Highlands, NC, with Private: Wilderness Tours. Personalized and expert-led, these journeys offer access to hidden waterfalls, ancient forests, and deep Appalachian history.
Private: Wilderness Tours
Mostly driving • 2 hours • All ages
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About This Adventure
Come Adventure with us!
Choose one of the following scenic tours:
- Ellicott Wilderness
- Blue Valley
Duration
2 hours
Rates
**Price $392.00 & includes 1-4 guest + $98.00 per additional person Ages 2 and Under: Free!
Max guests 38
Ability level
Mostly driving with some easy walking
Description
Ellicott Wilderness:
Enjoy our 2 hour Private Ellicott Wilderness Tour: This private tour starts in Highlands, then your back road adventure takes you to an amazing vistas of surrounding mountains, including the pot-holes at the Iron Bridge over the Chattooga river, and Slick Rock Trail.
Learn about the Nantahala Temperate Rainforest along the way. This tour is very scenic, fun, and easy for all ages, a great way to spend time with family and friends.
About the adventure
Ideal for Photography Private Customer Favorite
What to wear
Hiking shoes, long pants and shirt, and pack a light rain jacket
Pet Friendly
Customer Dogs Allowed, or you can ask for our dog Aussie to join your adventure.
Notes
Max cap. of our Adventure vehicles are 20 guests. If your groups is larger than 12 we would use 2 trucks.
Adventure Tips
Bring layered clothing
Highlands’ mountain weather can shift rapidly, so dressing in layers helps you stay comfortable throughout your tour.
Wear sturdy hiking boots
Uneven, rocky trails demand footwear with good grip and ankle support to prevent slips and injuries.
Pack water and snacks
Hydration and energy are crucial on overland hikes, especially on longer excursions into remote spots.
Respect wildlife and plants
Observe animals from a distance and avoid touching plants to protect Highlands’ delicate ecosystem.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Black bear
- Pileated woodpecker
History
Highlands sits on land once inhabited by the Cherokee, whose presence influences local place names and lore.
Conservation
Guides emphasize Leave No Trace principles and support local conservation efforts to protect the delicate Appalachian ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in Highlands
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hiking boots
Essential for navigating damp, rocky Appalachian trails safely.
Lightweight rain jacket
spring specific
Daypack
To carry water, snacks, camera, and extra layers comfortably.
Binoculars
Great for spotting birds and distant wildlife without disturbing them.