Top Five Hiking Trails In Pisgah National Forest

Pisgah National Forest, a haven of biodiversity, spans over 500,000 acres across the western region of North Carolina. It offers an array of lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic mountain views that have consistently drawn hiking enthusiasts for years. 

Whether you’re a novice looking for a serene walk or an experienced hiker craving a challenging climb, Pisgah has something for everyone. Here, we’ll explore the top five hiking trails in this beautiful forest that cater to a spectrum of hiking levels.

Top Five Hiking Trails In Pisgah National Forest For Every Skill Level

Looking Glass Rock Trail

Location: Near Brevard, Pisgah Ranger District. 

Distance/Time to Complete: 6.5 miles round trip / Approximately 4-5 hours. 

Skill Level: Moderate.

The Looking Glass Rock Trail is undeniably one of Pisgah National Forest’s crown jewels. The trail’s name is derived from the sheer face of the rock itself which, when wet and glistening in the sunlight, appears as a massive mirror or “looking glass.”

As you embark on this moderately challenging trek, you’ll navigate a series of switchbacks that steadily elevate you through a verdant forest teeming with mountain laurel, hardwoods, and rhododendron. Birdwatchers will rejoice at the myriad of species fluttering between the trees, including the elusive Peregrine Falcon, which has been known to nest on the cliff sides.

About halfway through, the trail begins to level out into a more comfortable gradient, allowing hikers to catch their breath and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the surroundings. The gentle babbling of Looking Glass Creek accompanies you for portions of the hike, its soothing sounds complementing the orchestra of chirping birds and rustling leaves.

Looking Glass Rock Trail is conveniently located near a handful of RV campgrounds. Davidson River Campground, Pisgah Forest RV Park, and Black Forest Family Camping Resort are all great places to stay with excellent amenities to make your trip memorable.

Linville Falls Trail

Location: Blue Ridge Parkway near Milepost 316. 

Distance/Time to Complete: 1.6 miles round trip for the main loop / Approximately 1-1.5 hours. 

Skill Level: Easy to Moderate.

The Linville Falls Trail is more than just a hiking path; it’s a testament to nature’s power and grace. Drawing visitors from far and wide, this trail is famed for its accessibility, making it ideal for hikers of all ages and levels.

The trail is split into multiple viewpoints, each offering a unique perspective of the falls and the expansive Linville Gorge, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Southern Appalachians.”

Viewpoints Galore

Upper Falls View: A short walk from the visitor center, this vantage point offers a teasing glimpse of the Linville River just before it takes its dramatic plunge. The sounds here are intense, as the water churns and gathers momentum.

Chimney View: A slightly strenuous detour, this viewpoint gives a direct sightline to the 90-foot plunge of the main falls. The river, having carved its path through the rugged landscape for millennia, cascades into the Linville Gorge, producing mesmerizing rainbows in its mist on sunny days.

Erwin’s View: The furthest from the starting point but worth every step. At an elevation of 3,320 feet, this viewpoint offers a comprehensive panorama of the gorge, the falls, and the surrounding cliffs. The layers of the mountains in the distance, fading into different shades of blue, are a visual treat.

Craggy Gardens Trail

Location: Blue Ridge Parkway, north of Asheville near Milepost 364. 

Distance/Time to Complete: 2 miles round trip / Approximately 1-2 hours. 

Skill Level: Easy.

Winding through one of the most biodiverse regions in the Pisgah National Forest, the Craggy Gardens Trail offers a delightful escape into a world awash with vibrant flora and panoramic vistas. This trail is a testimony to nature’s kaleidoscope – each season presenting a distinct hue and charm.

One of the prime attractions of the Craggy Gardens Trail is the picnic area situated near the trailhead. This shaded haven, with its wooden benches and tables, beckons hikers to pause and savor a meal, all while being surrounded by nature’s grandeur.

Further along, the trail leads to the Craggy Pinnacle, a vantage point offering a breathtaking panorama of the undulating Blue Ridge Mountains, the valleys below, and on clear days, even the distant silhouette of downtown Asheville.

Black Balsam Knob and Tennent Mountain Loop

Location: Off Blue Ridge Parkway near Milepost 420. 

Distance/Time to Complete: 5 miles loop / Approximately 3-4 hours. 

Skill Level: Moderate.

Black Balsam Knob, often simply known as Black Balsam, is an iconic pinnacle in the Pisgah National Forest, renowned for its sprawling grassy balds and unparalleled 360-degree views. This trail transports you to the very heavens, walking above a world blanketed by clouds and vibrant wildflower fields.

Starting from the parking area off Black Balsam Road, the trail immediately unveils the beauty of the Southern Appalachians. The path is an interplay of dense coniferous patches and vast open balds. The lack of obstructive tree cover means that hikers are treated to uninterrupted vistas from almost every point.

For those thirsting for more, the trail can be extended to encompass Tennent Mountain, adding more distance but also unveiling a new array of vistas. This loop offers a more comprehensive feel of the balds, forests, and the sheer grandeur of the area.

Moore Cove Falls Trail

Location: Near Brevard, off US-276. 

Distance/Time to Complete: 1.5 miles round trip / Approximately 1 hour. 

Skill Level: Easy.

Among the hidden gems of Pisgah National Forest, Moore Cove Falls Trail is an idyllic journey culminating in a picturesque cascade. Suitable for families and those looking for a gentle, rewarding trek, this trail captures the essence of Appalachian woodlands and the soothing sounds of water.

From the trailhead, a wooden bridge immediately greets hikers, spanning over the gentle babbling of Looking Glass Creek. As one ventures further, the path winds its way through a lush hardwood forest. The dappled sunlight filters through the canopy, playing upon the forest floor covered with ferns and wildflowers.

In essence, Moore Cove Falls Trail is a testament to the quieter joys of nature. It isn’t about the challenge or the distance, but the simple pleasures: the rustling leaves, the chirping of birds, and the mesmerizing dance of water as it cascades down. Perfect for families, couples, or solo hikers, this trail is a gentle reminder of the timeless beauty nestled within Pisgah National Forest.

Wrapping Up

Pisgah National Forest is a treasure trove for hikers. Its varied landscapes, rich flora and fauna, and the spectrum of trails ensure that every hiker, irrespective of their skill level, finds their perfect trail. 

As you lace up your hiking boots and embark on these trails, remember to respect the wilderness, practice Leave No Trace principles, and most importantly, soak in the splendor that nature generously offers. Happy hiking!

Don’t forget to secure your RV rental near Pisgah National Forest today!