Of all the hikes in the Shining Rock Wilderness, this out-and-back to Cold Mountain might be the most coveted. The route follows the iconic Art Loeb Trail to Deep Gap, then spurs off for a grueling 1.5-mile/1,000-foot push to the summit. This hike has it all: mountain streams, old-growth trees, epic views from the summit, and even remnants of a plane crash dating back to the 1940s.

This route is an all-seasons hike into Shining Rock Wilderness, accessible via US-276. A small parking area can accommodate a handful of cars, and an adjacent pull-off serves as overflow. Snow is likely in the winter months, but the route is still passable with appropriate gear.

Second to the Old Butt Knob/Shining Creek Path Loop, this is the must-do hike in Shining Rock Wilderness. Set aside an entire day if you're hiking, or 3-4 hours if you plan to trail run the loop. Camping opportunities are in no short supply—both Shining Rock Gap and Deep Gap offer the most reliable options.