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. Many trails feature amenities like picnic areas, restrooms, and educational opportunities, making them perfect for a day out in nature.
What Are the Top Easy Trails for Kids in Pisgah National Forest?
- Moore Cove Falls Trail
- Length: 1.2 miles (out and back)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Notable Features: Grotto-like waterfall, minimal elevation gain
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Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon due to limited parking
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Andy Cove Nature Trail
- Length: 0.7 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: 30-foot suspension bridge, cantilevered boardwalks, small streams
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Starting Point: Pisgah Forest Ranger Station
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Looking Glass Falls
- Length: 0.2 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Access: Stairs, visible from the road
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Parking: Pull-off area available
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Graveyard Fields Lower Falls Trail
- Length: 0.5 miles (out and back)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Features: Partially paved trail, stairs, waterfall viewing area
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Amenities: Restrooms at parking lot
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Sliding Rock
- Length: 0.3 miles (out and back)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Attractions: Natural rockslide, swimming hole
- Note: $4 per person entry fee
What Is the Longest Kid-Friendly Hike in Pisgah National Forest?
The longest kid-friendly hike in Pisgah National Forest is the Graveyard Fields Loop Trail:
- Length: 3.5 miles (round trip)
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Trail Conditions: Partially paved with some stairs
- Amenities: Restrooms, picnic areas
- Additional Feature: Option to connect to other trails in the Graveyard Fields valley
Which Trails Offer Elevation Gain for More Adventurous Families?
- Black Balsam Knob Trail
- Length: 1.4 miles (round trip)
- Elevation Change: Significant (exact figures not provided)
- Challenges: Steepest trail on the list, above treeline
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Reward: 360-degree views
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Mt. Mitchell Balsam Trail (nearby, not exclusively in Pisgah National Forest)
- Length: 0.75 miles (loop)
- Elevation Change: Minimal
- Environment: Dense fir forest
- Accessibility: Easy walk at the summit of Mt. Mitchell
What Parking and Trailhead Information Should Families Know?
| Trail Name | Parking Information | Trailhead Location |
|---|---|---|
| Moore Cove Falls | Limited; early morning or late afternoon recommended | 6.7 miles north on US 276 from intersection with NC 280 and US 64 in Pisgah Forest |
| Andy Cove Nature Trail | Available at Pisgah Forest Ranger Station | 1.6 miles north on US 276 from intersection with NC 280 and US 64, turn right into Ranger Station |
| Looking Glass Falls | Pull-off area on side of road | Visible from US 276 |
| Graveyard Fields | Parking lot with restrooms | From Blue Ridge Parkway, take US 276 south to Graveyard Fields parking lot |
| Sliding Rock | Parking area available | 11 miles south on US 276 from intersection with US 64 in Brevard, follow Cascade Lake Road and Staton Road |
What Additional Activities Are Available Near These Trails?
- Picnic areas at Graveyard Fields and Flat Rock Trail
- Swimming holes at Sliding Rock and Hooker Falls
- Educational trails and wildlife discovery stations at Chimney Rock
Are There Any Costs or Regulations for These Trails?
Most trails in Pisgah National Forest are free to access. However, there are some exceptions and regulations:
- Sliding Rock: $4 per person entry fee
- Other trails: Generally free, but may have limited parking or specific regulations during peak seasons
How Can Families Prepare for a Kid-Friendly Hike in Pisgah National Forest?
- Choose an appropriate trail based on your children’s age and hiking experience
- Pack essentials: water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and first-aid kit
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for hiking
- Check weather conditions and trail status before heading out
- Arrive early at popular trails to secure parking
- Bring a map or download trail information for offline use
- Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment
By considering these factors and choosing the right trail, families can enjoy a memorable and safe hiking experience in Pisgah National Forest.
References:
1. Kid Friendly Hikes in Asheville and Blue Ridge Mountains
2. Kid Friendly – Brevard North Carolina
3. Easiest Trails in Pisgah National Forest