Explore the Wild Places of Western North Carolina
Avoid the stress of researching hiking locations amidst the multitude of options available. This task becomes particularly daunting when planning a family outing with varying levels of experience, emphasizing the need for safety for all participants. Our proficient hiking guides possess the expertise to select an ideal trail leading to a picturesque waterfall or a panoramic mountain ridge tailored to your group’s needs. Learn about the fauna, flora, waterways, and other natural wonders you see along the trail. Your guide will also ensure you are well-prepared for the hike by providing guidance on essential items to bring along. We offer half day and full day trips with the option of transportation on a case-by-case situation.
Headwaters Outfitters has complete permits and insurance for commercial activities on all public lands where we guide. Headwaters Outfitters operates in the Pisgah Ranger District of The Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina under Permit# PIS4338-07and is an equal opportunity provider.
All of our guides hold certifications in Wilderness First Aid and CPR, ensuring your safety throughout the expedition.
Avoid the stress of researching hiking locations amidst the multitude of options available. This task becomes particularly daunting when planning a family outing with varying levels of experience, emphasizing the need for safety for all participants. Our proficient hiking guides possess the expertise to select an ideal trail leading to a picturesque waterfall or a panoramic mountain ridge tailored to your group’s needs. Learn about the fauna, flora, waterways, and other natural wonders you see along the trail. Your guide will also ensure you are well-prepared for the hike by providing guidance on essential items to bring along. We offer half day and full day trips with the option of transportation on a case-by-case situation.
Headwaters Outfitters has complete permits and insurance for commercial activities on all public lands where we guide. Headwaters Outfitters operates in the Pisgah Ranger District of The Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina under Permit# PIS4338-07and is an equal opportunity provider.
All of our guides hold certifications in Wilderness First Aid and CPR, ensuring your safety throughout the expedition.
Guided Hikes
Guided Llama Hikes
Discover the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains one step at a time with guided hiking adventures from Headwaters Outfitters. Our local guides lead you along scenic forest trails, past cascading waterfalls, and into the heart of the landscapes that make the Western North Carolina area so special. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk in nature, a family-friendly outing, or a chance to learn about the plants, wildlife, and history of our region, our hikes are designed to help you slow down, connect with the land, and experience Western North Carolina in a meaningful way.
To Book your guided hike please email Guide Lydia Dann and lydia@headwatersoutfitters.com
GUIDED HIKING TRIPS INCLUDE:
• Personal guide.
• Shuttle services available upon request.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED FOR YOUR TRIP:
• Personal Gear – dress for weather conditions (rain jacket, extra layers, day pack.
• Hiking shoes – good tread, water resistant, closed toe.
• Drinks, snacks, picnic lunch
• Bear repellent (LOL gotcha, just kidding)- but bug spray and sunscreen!
• Gratuities – if our staff provides excellent service, it’s acceptable to tip them.
When picking out the length and destination of your trip, please consider everyone in your group. Base difficulty level of hike of the lowest rated score of your group as a whole.
Transportation to and from Headwaters Outfitters and the Trailhead is available on a limited basis, at an additional cost.
For guided hikes please email us at lydia@headwatersoutfitters.com
Explore the beauty of DuPont State Recreational Forest in a truly memorable way with Headwaters Outfitters’ guided llama hikes. Accompanied by our friendly pack llamas and knowledgeable local guides, you’ll wander along scenic forest trails, past rushing streams and iconic waterfalls, while learning about the natural history and wildlife that make this landscape so special. These easy-paced hikes are perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking for a fun and unique outdoor experience. Walking alongside these gentle animals adds a sense of wonder and connection to the journey, making it an adventure that’s just as enjoyable for seasoned hikers as it is for first-time explorers.
Meet the Guides
Meet Your Guides! 🥾
Introducing Lydia Dann and Tiffany Avirette—our passionate and knowledgeable hiking guides who lead unforgettable waterfall adventures through Pisgah National Forest! With a deep love for the outdoors and a knack for making every hike feel like a journey with friends, you’re in great hands on the trail. 🌿✨
- What to expect?
- Can I bring my dog?
- What if someone in my group has a special need or health condition?
- What if it calls for rain or storms?
- What should I bring?
Your guide will reach out in advance to evaluate the group’s experience levels and tailor a hiking experience to your preferences regarding sights and duration. On the day of your excursion, you will check in at Headwaters Outfitters, fill out our waiver if not done prior, and rendezvous with your guide. If you are driving yourself (required if you have a dog), you will then follow your guide to the trailhead.
Well-behaved, trained dogs are welcome on our guided hiking trips so long as they are on a 6 ft lead and you are providing your own transportation. We follow Leave No Trace principles and it is mandatory to pack out any pet waste.
For Guided Llama Hikes- NO DOGS ALLOWED
Given the exclusive nature of our trips, we possess the flexibility to customize each journey to cater to the specific requirements of individuals within the group. We are fully equipped to cater to guests with visual, auditory, or physical impairments.
We will hike in the rain so long as it’s safe to do so. Wear rain gear and waterproof boots. Pack a change of clothes for post trip comfort. It’s wise to ALWAYS pack a rain jacket just in case. We will frequently hike in the morning since afternoon thunderstorms are common in the summer months. If we cancel due to weather we will either reschedule you or offer a full refund.
All people should bring a day pack, water, snacks, lunch (on full day trips), personal medications (epi-pen, inhaler, pain reliever, ETC), bug spray, sunscreen, closed toe/water resistant shoes with good tread, rain jacket and extra layers.
