Private hike plus open-air 4x4 ride from Highlands, NC
2 hours
1-4 people
Guide, 4x4 adventure vehicle
Choose from several local trails and head out on a private 2-hour outing that mixes an open-air 4x4 ride with easy to moderate hiking. Learn about Highlands and the Nantahala rainforest along the way.
Meet in Highlands, NC. Wear hiking shoes, long pants and shirt, and pack a light rain jacket. Each truck holds up to 12 people; larger groups may use two trucks.
Tours go out rain, shine, or snow. Cancel or change at least 5 days in advance. No refunds within 5 days or less of the tour date and time. Any tours canceled by Highland Excursion, for any reason, will receive a 100% refund.
Wear hiking shoes, long pants, and a shirt, and pack a light rain jacket.
Yes. Customer dogs are allowed. You can also ask for the guide’s dog, Aussie, to join your adventure.
Each truck holds up to 12 people. If your group is larger than 12, you ride in two trucks.
Highlands, NC
Justin and Kelly own this tour company, and they clearly know how to show visitors the best of Highlands and Cashiers. Along with guides Amy, Aimee, and Jamie, they deliver consistently exceptional private tours that combine stunning waterfalls, scenic viewpoints like Sunset Rock, and off-road adventures with surprisingly rich historical commentary. Guests rave about how knowledgeable every guide is, sharing stories about the area's history, geography, plants, and wildlife while making the experience feel personalized rather than scripted. What makes these tours special is the customization. Guides genuinely tailor each excursion based on what interests you most, whether that's waterfall chasing, backcountry exploration, or learning about local culture. They accommodate different mobility levels, welcome dogs, and even make thoughtful touches like pastry shop stops or providing "Pupscicles." The vehicles are well-equipped and comfortable, and tours typically run around two hours. Multiple reviewers suggest booking this as your first activity when arriving, so you can get oriented to the area and gather recommendations for the rest of your stay. It's clearly become a favorite for everyone from honeymooners to multi-generational families.
Fantastic personalized tour! Amy showed us places we never would have found or seen on our own. Thanks to her, we found the perfect place to watch the sunset on our last evening in Highlands. She was knowledgeable about the local history and ecosystem…and had the perfect personality for the job! Would definitely recommend!
April White
October 23, 2025
Fantastic personalized tour! Amy showed us places we never would have found or seen on our own. Thanks to her, we found the perfect place to watch the sunset on our last evening in Highlands. She was knowledgeable about the local history and ecosystem…and had the perfect personality for the job! Would definitely recommend!
April White
October 23, 2025