The Mountain Wilderness Awaits
They beckon with their misty veils, tumbling down ancient rock faces polished by centuries of persistent flow. They whisper through towering hemlocks and vibrant rhododendron tunnels. The waterfalls and trails of Burlingame and the surrounding highlands aren’t just scenic features—they’re living connections to the timeless spirit of these mountains, inviting you to step away from everyday concerns and into a world of natural wonder.
Burlingame Country Club is blessed to be nestled among some of Western North Carolina’s most breathtaking landscapes, with miles of hiking trails that wind through old-growth forests, alongside pristine streams, and toward magnificent waterfalls. For our members, these natural treasures provide not just recreation, but restoration—moments of quiet reflection and exhilaration that remind us why we chose these mountains as our home.
Trails Within Our Community
The adventure begins right at home, with Burlingame’s network of expertly maintained trails that showcase the diverse ecosystems of our mountain paradise.
Miller Falls Trail
Perhaps the most beloved route within our community is the Miller Falls Trail, a moderate 1.2-mile path that follows the gentle flow of the Horsepasture River before revealing the cascading beauty of Miller Falls. Named after the Miller family, whose homestead once occupied this land (and whose family cemetery remains preserved near our #2 fairway), the falls drop approximately 40 feet into a serene pool framed by ancient hemlocks and vibrant wildflowers.
The trail itself tells the story of Burlingame’s commitment to conservation, with interpretive signs highlighting the rich biodiversity of the area. The final approach features a thoughtfully constructed observation deck that provides the perfect vantage point for photographs or simply soaking in the natural symphony of rushing water and forest sounds.
Sapphire Ridge Loop
For those seeking a more challenging excursion, the Sapphire Ridge Loop offers a 2.8-mile journey that rewards hikers with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. The trail climbs steadily through groves of oak and hickory before emerging at several clearings that provide breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
In autumn, this trail becomes particularly spectacular as the forest transforms into a tapestry of gold, crimson, and amber. The varied terrain makes this an excellent option for those looking to incorporate more vigorous exercise into their hiking experience.
Beyond Burlingame: Highland Treasures
Venturing just beyond our community opens up an even wider world of natural wonders, with some of the region’s most spectacular waterfalls and hiking experiences just minutes from your doorstep.
Secret Falls
Just a short drive from Burlingame lies one of the area’s most enchanting hidden gems: Secret Falls. Living up to its name, this 50-foot cascade remains relatively undiscovered by tourist crowds. The 1.5-mile round-trip hike follows Big Creek through a lush forest of rhododendron and mountain laurel before revealing the falls in all their glory.
The trail features a well-maintained footpath that crosses the creek several times via stepping stones and small bridges. The final approach involves a short scramble down to the basin, where visitors can enjoy the cool mist and even take a refreshing dip in the plunge pool during warmer months.
Whiteside Mountain Trail
For an unforgettable hiking experience, the Whiteside Mountain Trail stands as one of the region’s premier destinations. This 2-mile loop traverses the summit of one of the oldest mountains in the world, featuring sheer 750-foot cliffs of gleaming white quartzite.
The trail follows an old logging road for much of its length, climbing steadily before emerging onto rocky outcrops that provide 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. Between April and October, visitors might glimpse the majestic peregrine falcons that nest on the cliffs.
Glen Falls
For those willing to venture a bit further, Glen Falls offers one of the most dramatic waterfall experiences in the region. This three-tiered cascade drops over 700 feet through a rugged gorge, with each section offering its own unique character and beauty.
The 2.4-mile round-trip trail to view all three tiers is rated as moderately difficult, with several steep sections. The upper falls features a graceful 70-foot drop, while the middle section plunges in a concentrated column before spreading across smaller cascades. The lower falls provides perhaps the most dramatic spectacle, with water thundering into a deep, rock-enclosed pool.
Seasonal Considerations
The highlands region offers distinct hiking experiences throughout the year, each with its own character and considerations.
In spring, the forest awakens with a vibrant display of wildflowers while the waterfalls surge with melting snow and seasonal rains. By summer, lush greenery creates cool, shaded pathways even on the warmest days, with temperatures rarely exceeding the mid-80s thanks to our elevation.
Autumn brings the splendor of Western North Carolina’s famous fall foliage, with forests transformed into a painter’s palette of red, orange, yellow, and purple. The crisp air and clear skies create perfect conditions for long-distance views from ridgetop trails.
Even winter offers magical experiences for the prepared hiker. After a snowfall, familiar landscapes transform into pristine wonderlands, and waterfalls take on an otherworldly quality as ice formations frame the flowing water.
Preparing for Your Highland Hiking Adventure
To fully enjoy the natural wonders surrounding Burlingame, proper preparation is essential. Even for short hikes, bring sturdy waterproof boots, appropriate clothing, water, snacks, a first aid kit, a map, rain protection, and sun protection. For more challenging hikes, consider a headlamp, extra layers, and emergency supplies.
Remember to respect the mountains by staying on designated trails, following leave-no-trace principles, making noise in wildlife areas, hiking with a companion when possible, starting early for longer hikes, and checking weather forecasts.
Guided Experiences for Burlingame Members
For those who prefer expert guidance, Burlingame offers several options to enhance your hiking experiences:
Our Naturalist-Led Excursions focus on the rich ecological diversity of our mountain environment, highlighting seasonal features and providing insight into the complex relationships between plants, animals, and the landscape.
Photography Walks combine basic outdoor photography instruction with access to some of the most photogenic locations in our region, timed for optimal lighting conditions.
Our Family Adventure Series introduces younger members to outdoor exploration through age-appropriate hikes featuring scavenger hunts, wildlife identification challenges, and interactive learning experiences.
Preserving Our Natural Heritage
As stewards of this remarkable landscape, Burlingame maintains a deep commitment to conservation and sustainable trail management. Our Trails Committee works diligently to maintain existing pathways, develop new routes that minimize environmental impact, and educate members about preserving our natural resources.
Through partnerships with local conservation organizations, we participate in regional initiatives to protect watersheds, manage invasive species, and monitor wildlife populations.
Join Us on the Trail
The hiking trails and waterfalls surrounding Burlingame offer more than just exercise or scenic views—they provide a pathway to connecting with nature, with fellow members, and with the timeless spirit of the mountains themselves.
We invite you to lace up your hiking boots, fill your water bottle, and discover the natural wonders that await just beyond your doorstep. The mountains are calling—and at Burlingame, they’re never more than a short walk away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of fitness is required for Burlingame’s trails? Our trail network includes options for all fitness levels, from gentle, relatively flat paths suitable for beginners to more challenging routes for experienced hikers. Our trail maps indicate difficulty levels to help you choose the right path for your abilities.
Are the trails accessible year-round? Yes, our trails remain open throughout the year, though seasonal conditions may affect accessibility. During winter months, some higher-elevation paths may be temporarily closed after significant snowfall for safety reasons.
Can I bring guests to hike the trails within Burlingame? Absolutely! Members are welcome to bring guests to enjoy our trail system. We simply ask that you accompany your guests and ensure they understand our community guidelines for trail use.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails? Yes, members may bring leashed dogs on most trails. We ask that you clean up after your pet and be mindful that not all hikers are comfortable around dogs. Some sensitive ecological areas may have restrictions on pet access, which are clearly marked.
Do you offer trail maps? Detailed trail maps are available at the Clubhouse, the Fitness Center, and through our member app. These maps indicate trail difficulty, distance, estimated hiking time, and points of interest along each route.
Your Mountain Haven Awaits
Your private adventure starts here in the heart of Sapphire Valley, surrounded by some of Western North Carolina’s most spectacular natural landscapes. We invite you to discover the magic of Burlingame Country Club, where every trail leads to new opportunities for joy, challenge, and connection with nature.
Contact us today to schedule your personal tour and experience firsthand why our members call Burlingame “The Best of Times.” Let us welcome you home to the mountain retreat you’ve always imagined—where luxury meets authenticity and every moment feels like a return to what matters most.