Scaly Mountain via Hickory Knut Trail

Explore multiple views as you hike to the summit of Scaly Mountain in the Nantahala National Forest of North Carolina. At just over 3 miles and with significantly less elevation gain than other routes, this is the easy way up to amazing views. This is a great hike for the whole family.

To summit Scaly Mountain, you can take the Bartram via Osage Overlook, but the easier route is from Hickory Knut Gap Road (Google lists as Hickory Nut Rd). This route walks along a gravel road for .3 miles, then splits to the right and continues along a blue-blazed trail that intersects the Bartram at 1.1 miles. The sign at the trailhead says Hickory Knut Trail, but Trails Illustrated calls the section from the cell tower road to the Bartram the Scaly Mountain Trail.

Along the way, a few winter views peak out, but nothing spectacular. Much of the trail after the gravel road is comprised of rhododendron tunnels. When you hit the yellow-blazed Bartram Trail, turn right. A posted sign for Scaly Mountain leads the way.

Near the top, a side trail splits to the left, reconnecting immediatly after. At 1.5 miles, a side trail to the left does the same, but with a great view of Rabun Bald to the south. Another to the right shortly after afford a view. This is near the actual summit, but continue on. At just over 1.6 miles you'll see a side trail on the left to a wide open view along a large section of bare rock. If you start going downhill, you missed it. With almost 180° views to the southwest, this short hike is definitely worth the effort.

In winter, ice can make the bare rock sections of this trail a bit treacherous. Hiking poles are recommended, or maybe a sled.