Whiteside Mountain, nestled in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest, offers an invigorating hike that is as enriching as it is challenging. This loop, recognized as a National Recreation Trail, is a 2.5-mile journey that promises unparalleled views from atop its 700 ft cliffs, a rich tapestry of flora including the blooming mountain laurel in mid-June, and a glimpse into the mountain's past life as a bustling tourist attraction. The trail's moderate difficulty rating of 3.98, based on the Energy Miles concept, accounts for both the physical exertion required and the trail's moderately rough tread condition, marked by natural obstacles that challenge hikers along the way.

Starting from the Whiteside Mountain Parking Area, the hike kicks off behind the signboards, initially presenting a steep climb that soon softens as it merges with an old roadbed. The path, adorned with log and rock steps, directs hikers through a captivating forest landscape, intermingled with hemlocks, laurels, and rhododendrons, and past a wet-weather stream. This initial ascent is a prelude to the breathtaking vistas that await at the summit.

The ascent is punctuated by a series of switchbacks, including an elaborate staircase below a small rock cliff, which brings hikers to the ridge's crest. Here, the trail skirts the edge of the mountain, offering the first of many spectacular overlooks. These vantage points, while enticing, come with a caution to stay well back from the edge for safety. The path, now lined with railings at certain overlooks, winds through a forest canopy that frames the dramatic landscape below.

As the trail reaches higher elevations, the overlooks become more frequent and the views more expansive. To the southwest, the rounded granite domes characteristic of the Highlands area unfold, interspersed with settlements and lush golf courses. To the southeast and northeast, the panorama is dominated by mountains and valleys, with clear days offering views as far as the Piedmont region. The summit offers a unique overlook, marked by a triangular-shaped rock, providing a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape, especially vibrant when the mountain laurel blooms in June.

Descending from the summit, the trail leads hikers past an old concrete slab platform, a relic from the mountain's days as a tourist draw, offering one last safe vantage point before the hike concludes. The trail then rejoins the old roadbed, guiding hikers through a cooler, moister forest environment, distinct from the summit's ecology. This segment, rich in northern hardwoods, offers a serene end to the hike, culminating back at the starting point.

Whiteside Mountain's hike is not just a physical journey but a passage through time, offering insights into the natural and human history of this majestic landscape. The trail, with its moderate challenges, breathtaking views, and historical echoes, provides an enriching experience for hikers, encapsulating the beauty and heritage of the North Carolina mountains.