Shining Rock Backpacking Adventure
PISGAH NATIONAL FOREST
Shining Rock Backpacking Adventure
PISGAH NATIONAL FOREST
3 days
2 nightS
6 miles
PER DAY
6 Guests
MAXIMUM
- Panoramic 360 views
- Sunrise / sunset viewpoints
- Near Canton, NC
- Intermediate
$650
join us on a Shining Rock Wilderness: 3-Day / 2-Night Backpacking Adventure
Experience the rugged beauty of Shining Rock Wilderness—perfect for hikers looking to build skills while experiencing one of North Carolina’s most iconic backcountry areas. This co-ed trip is designed to keep a balanced pace, allowing you to enjoy the journey without feeling rushed while still covering some truly rewarding terrain.
Along the way, you’ll hike through a mix of forested trails and open ridgelines, taking in sweeping mountain views and the unique quartz formations that make this area so special. With a small, supportive group, you’ll gain confidence in your gear, learn practical backcountry skills, and enjoy a few days fully immersed in nature—whether you’re coming solo or with a friend.
Food
All meals are provided by Happy Hiking Company and will be distributed the morning of your trip. You’ll choose from a selection of lightweight, backpacking-friendly options including dehydrated meals, snacks, and drinks (coffee included!).
We can accommodate many dietary needs, but options may be somewhat limited due to the nature of backpacking food. Please note any allergies or restrictions when booking so we can plan accordingly.
Gear
We provide high-quality backpacking gear at no additional cost, including backpacks, tents, trekking poles, and sleeping pads. Your guide will fit and distribute gear before you hit the trail.
All shared equipment—such as stoves, water filters, first aid supplies, and bathroom kits—is also included and will be divided among the group.
We start this hike at a trailhead near Canton, NC.
Please note pre-trip lodging is not included in the cost of this trip.
This trip is a great fit if you’re looking for a moderate challenge with a big payoff—think a few miles of hiking, carrying a pack, and settling into camp in the backcountry.
Coming solo? You’ll be in good company—many guests join on their own, while others come with a friend. You’ll have the option of a two-person tent to yourself or sharing with another participant to lighten your pack. There’s no extra cost if you prefer your own tent.
After booking we will provide a full detailed packing list specific to your trip. Gear that you should plan on bringing yourself includes:
- Sleeping bag – 20 degree bags are recommended in April, May, Sept, Oct, and Nov time frames – the mountains are chillier than you think!
- Clothing – one outfit to hike in, one to sleep in (you do not need extra changes of clothes), along with adequate layers for the weather. Avoid cotton if possible – if cotton gets wet it will stay damp and cold
- Rain gear – jacket/rain pants
- Hiking boots or shoes
- Head lamp
- Mess Kit
- Water bottles/water bladder – 3 Liters recommended, one in a heat safe container (ex – Nalgene) to use as a hot water bottle on cold nights. Once your trip is booked your guide will reach out with route specific water guidelines.
- Any personal medication
Many of the typical luxuries of everyday life are not needed in the backcountry! Feel free to leave your makeup, deodorant, and other products at home. A toothbrush/toothpaste is the only recommended toiletry for your trip.
Extra electronics and other forms of entertainment are not needed – take this time to disconnect and enjoy nature – screen free!
The cost for this trip is $650, and will run if there are 3 or more hikers in the group. If the minimum number of hikers is not met, your guide will reach out to you within 2 weeks of your trip.
This cost includes all food, as well as most of the gear needed for the trip. The details on what is included and what is your responsibility to bring is outlined above. Once booked your guide will send you a detailed packing list as well.
To book a trip with Happy Hiking Co., a 20% non-refundable deposit is required. Trips are required to be paid in full within 3 weeks of your scheduled trip date. If needed, you can cancel for a full refund (minus the 20% deposit) prior to 3 weeks of your trip departure date.
More than 3 weeks prior to departure, if you need to transfer to another trip date there is a $30 transfer fee. Within 3 weeks of your departure date, transfers are not available.
Within 3 weeks of your trip date, a 50% refund will be issued. Within 1 week of your trip date, no refund will be offered barring cancellation of the trip by Happy Hiking Co.
Happy Hiking Co. runs tours rain or shine! Should extreme weather circumstances arise, your guide will reach out to coordinate the details and changes to your itinerary.
If your guide does an exceptional job, please show your appreciation with a tip.
Our team of highly trained professional guides never expects but always appreciates a tip. Industry standard gratuity for a guided backpacking trip is 15-20% of trip price.
What to look forward to
Spend a few days exploring one of North Carolina’s most beautiful and rugged wilderness areas. The Shining Rock Wilderness is known for its sweeping mountain views, unique quartz rock formations, and quiet backcountry feel. We’ll hike through a mix of forested trails and open ridgelines, taking plenty of breaks to enjoy the scenery, have a relaxed lunch, and soak it all in.
Evenings are all about slowing down. After setting up camp, we’ll share a warm meal, catch sunset views, and unwind together under the stars. With no cell service and nowhere else to be, it’s the perfect chance to disconnect, recharge, and enjoy good company in a truly peaceful setting.
What awaits you...
Get ready for some of the best views in the Southeast. Shining Rock is known for its wide-open ridgelines and 360° panoramas, where you can take in endless layers of blue mountains in every direction. We’ll spend time on these high-elevation sections, giving you plenty of chances to pause, take it all in, and snap those “wow” photos that don’t quite do it justice.
You’ll also gain real, hands-on backpacking experience along the way. Whether it’s learning how to pack your bag, set up camp efficiently, or get comfortable navigating life in the backcountry, this trip is designed to build confidence without feeling overwhelming. It’s a supportive, laid-back environment where you can ask questions, try new things, and leave feeling more capable for your next adventure.
why choose happy hiking Co.?
Happy Hiking Co. is a locally owned, boutique guide company—every trip is planned and led by our team, not outsourced. Our guides are highly experienced, Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certified, and deeply familiar with the areas we explore. We keep our groups small and our approach hands-on, so you get real guidance, not just someone pointing the way.
From trip planning to your final mile on trail, everything is designed to feel smooth, safe, and well thought out. Our goal is simple: help you feel confident, supported, and fully present out there—whether it’s your first trip or your fifth.