Pisgah National Forest is not located within Asheville city limits, but it is a nearby natural treasure. Situated southwest of Asheville, this expansive forest spans multiple counties in western North Carolina. While not in Asheville proper, Pisgah National Forest is easily accessible from the city, offering visitors a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities and breathtaking … Read more
Pisgah National Forest offers diverse recreational opportunities with varying hours of operation. The Visitor Center is open daily from April to October, 9 AM to 5 PM, and Thursday through Monday from November to December, 9 AM to 4:30 PM. Camping hours depend on specific campgrounds, while day-use areas are generally accessible from sunrise to … Read more
Pisgah National Forest is currently under significant alerts due to Hurricane Helene. All recreation sites, campgrounds, boat launches, and developed areas are closed for safety. Visitors are warned about potential hazards including falling limbs, downed trees, and flooding. Specific trails and roads are closed due to storm damage. These closures will remain in effect until … Read more
Wiseman’s View in Pisgah National Forest offers a breathtaking panorama of Linville Gorge from an elevation of 3,400 feet. This easily accessible overlook provides stunning vistas of iconic landmarks like Table Rock and Hawksbill Mountain. With a short, wheelchair-friendly trail and basic facilities, Wiseman’s View is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking … Read more
Upper Creek Falls in Pisgah National Forest is a stunning 50-foot waterfall nestled in the rugged terrain of western North Carolina. This natural wonder offers visitors a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience, featuring a moderate to difficult trail that winds through lush forest and rocky terrain. The falls are a popular destination for hikers, nature … Read more
Sam Knob in Pisgah National Forest is a 6,045-foot peak offering stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. This moderately challenging 3-mile round-trip hike takes you through diverse landscapes, from dense forests to grassy meadows. The trail, accessible year-round, provides a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of North Carolina’s high country, with … Read more
Pisgah National Forest offers a variety of family-friendly hiking trails suitable for children of all ages. From easy walks to moderate hikes, these trails showcase the forest’s natural beauty, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems. With options ranging from short 0.2-mile strolls to longer 3.5-mile loops, families can choose trails that match their children’s abilities and interests. … Read more
The Daniel Ridge Loop in Pisgah National Forest is a popular moderate hiking trail known for its stunning 150-foot cascading waterfall, diverse flora, and scenic views along the Davidson River. This 4-mile loop offers hikers a mix of challenging terrain and beautiful natural features, including rhododendron thickets, wildflower meadows, and small cascades. The trail’s accessibility … Read more
Pisgah National Forest is home to a thriving black bear population, part of North Carolina’s estimated 20,000 bears statewide. The forest’s diverse ecosystem provides an ideal habitat for these magnificent creatures. While exact numbers for Pisgah are not available, the 250 bears harvested in 2021 indicate a substantial presence. Visitors to the forest must be … Read more
Pisgah National Forest was officially established on October 17, 1916, marking a significant milestone in American forestry. As the first national forest created in the eastern United States under the Weeks Act of 1911, Pisgah’s establishment set a precedent for conservation and public land management in the region. This forest’s creation was the result of … Read more