Highland Hiker

It’s hard to believe Highland Hiker has been around for over three decades. It began as the Happy Hiker. After ten years, as the business grew, the name evolved into Highland Hiker. 

David Wilkes, owner, says, “Over the years we have expanded from one little cabin store to three stores on East Main Street, with another location in Cashiers” The original cabin store stocks fly fishing gear, books, hats, men’s and ladies’ clothing, and more. Highland Shoes carries men’s, women’s, and children’s footwear from high fashion to hiking boots.

Wilkes continues, “We call the new outfitter store situated between the cabin and shoe store the Highland Hiker. That location features our luggage, travel accessories, tents, sleeping bags, packs, and accessories. It is also stocked with all our expanded children’s clothing and the more technical outerwear for running, yoga and outdoor sports.” The cabin’s merchandise is geared toward the casual. The Cashiers store has everything under one roof, but instead of fishing equipment, they have climbing gear.

Wilkes sums up by saying, “Thirty years ago, we were fitting kids with boots. Now we are fitting their kids with boots and it won’t be much longer before another generation of Highland Hiker boot-wearers rolls around. We love being part of the region’s family hiking history.”

So whether you are a back-packer, camper, hiker, traveler, adventurer or fisherman, visit one of their four locations or place your order over the phone with their friendly and knowledgeable staff.