March 24, 2026 Forest Bathing in Jackson County

As outdoor wellness becomes increasingly popular in the United States, Jackson County and the Blue Ridge Mountains is the perfect place for anyone to explore the healing powers of nature. Shinrin-Yoku is the Japanese art of forest bathing, a therapy rooted in allowing the five senses to fully explore the natural environment for ultimate mindfulness and relaxation. Among relaxation benefits, forest bathing has also shown to relieve stress, improve concentration and boost the immune system.

Jackson County is home to two Certified Forest Therapy Trails designated for these forest wellness experiences. Pinnacle Park Certified Forest Therapy Trail and Jackson County Greenway Certified Forest Therapy Trail are among the short list of less than 30 certified trails in the world, with Pinnacle Park being the first certified trail in North Carolina and Jackson Country Greenway being the first all accessible certain trail in the United States. Located within a 45-minute drive of High Hampton, both trails offer self-guided wellness experiences with recommended “invitations,” or moments of contemplation. Dr. Mark Ellison, founder of Pinnacle Forest Therapy and a leading expert in forest bathing in the United States, provides an audio tour to further enhance self-guided experiences at Pinnacle Park.

If looking for a more local experience in Cashiers, Dr. Mark Ellison also guides walks along public areas of the Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust. As noted by Dr. Ellison, walks last for around two and half hours, are not strenuous and conclude with a tea ceremony. Walks can be scheduled through Pinnacle Forest Therapy’s website.