• Dupont Forest
• Pisgah Forest
• Fly Fishing

Pisgah National Forest

Shining Rock Wilderness, along Blue Ridge Parkway, near Brevard, NC.

Pisgah National Forest is a huge, federally protected tract stretching through western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. The Pisgah Ranger District, one of four ranger districts in the forest and the closest to Brevard, alone encompasses more than 150,000 acres of outdoor recreation and natural wilderness. Forty-nine major trails and many smaller, secluded paths venture deep into the beautiful landscape. Numerous easy trails offer day hikers the chance to make short forays into the wilderness, while longer and more challenging trails provide the expert with a lifetime of exploration.

Looking Glass Falls

Linville Gorge is a spectacular region carved out by the northward-marching Linville River. Besides the hiking and horse trails, Linville Gorge remains in pristine wildness, untouched by human hands. Those exploring the gorge will undoubtedly discover the abundance of waterfalls and perhaps pause to overlook the river from Babel Rock. The Linville River also offers excellent fly-fishing opportunities.

Majestic Mount Mitchell rises to an impressive 6,684 summit, making it the largest mountain east of the Mississippi. Experienced climbers can make the challenging 5.7 mile, 3600' ascent to the top.

Sliding Rock is a popular destination for families and individuals alike. Easy accessible by car or foot, Sliding Rock is a large swimming hole, equipped with a natural water slide. A sheet of water cascades down a shallow granite slope, delivering the swimmer into a cold, mountain-water pool. Sliding Rock offers full picnic facilities.

Looking Glass Rock is a large granite outcropping close to the Brevard entrance of the Pisgah National Forest. Named for the reflection it casts in surrounding waters, Looking Glass Rock can be reached by a 3.1-mile trail that gains more than 1000' by the time it reaches the summit. Visitors are treated to spectacular, year-round views. Among adventure-seekers, climbing and rappelling on Looking Glass Rock have become favorite activities.

The famous Pink Beds are home to large growths of rhododendron, mountain laurel, and azalea. Visitors can picnic among the beautiful displays of seasonal color.

A seemingly endless singletrack for mountain bike enthusiasts winds throughout Pisgah National Forest. The singletrack appeals to both novices and experts alike, offering widely varied terrains and challenges.

The Pisgah National Forest lists more than 20 miles of major horseback trails, ranging from moderate to challenging. Other trails lead into Linville Gorge and other wilderness areas.