For enthusiasts of mountain biking, hiking, and waterfalls, Pisgah, located in the greater Brevard area of Transylvania County in North Carolina, is a great place to visit. With over 500,000 acres of land and hundreds of miles of hiking, running, and mountain biking trails, Pisgah National Forest has a lot to offer for anyone who loves outdoor adventures.
Pisgah National Forest is located in Western North Carolina. Mount Pisgah, named for Mount Pisgah in the Bible, is at its center. In this amazing wonderland, you will find yourself surrounded by beautiful scenery, waterfalls, wildlife, and cool mountain breezes. The area is famous for its outdoor adventure opportunities. In fact, it has been called the cycling capital of the South.
Pisgah hiking trails near Brevard
Pisgah has something to offer for hikers of all types and skill levels. There are over 100 moderate trails that range from 1.1 miles to 73.2 miles in length and from 1102 to 6282 feet above sea level. Most Brevard hiking trails are moderate in difficulty, and many feature incredible waterfalls, bridges, forests, and rivers. Here are a few of the best Brevard hiking trails that you won’t want to miss.
Moore Cove
This 1.5-mile waterfall hike is gentle, easy, and kid friendly. No climbing on rocks is required, and it features wood bridges at all crossings. The inclines are mild, the paths are wide, and the views are captivating. At the end, the waterfall pours over a hanging rock from a height of 50 feet. This hike makes a great day trip that will be enjoyed by the entire family.
Looking Glass Falls
This is another relatively easy and quick hike of 6.1 miles out and back with paved sidewalks and stairs. With its beautiful waterfall, impressive vertical drop, and lush wildflowers, this is an ideal trail for great views and photo opportunities. It is also known for its rock climbing and bird watching potential. It is accessible year round, and dogs on leashes are allowed.
Mount Mitchell Trail
If you are looking for very challenging Brevard hiking trails, check out Mount Mitchell Trail. Mount Mitchell, in the Black Mountain range, is the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi. The out and back trail is 11 miles long and takes an average of 6.5 hours to hike. This hike features an altitude change of over 3000 feet and is recommended only for the most experienced hikers.
Here are some other amazing Pisgah hiking trails to check out.
- Cove Creek
- Skinny Dip Falls
- Dill Falls
- Cedar Rock Falls
- Sliding Rock Falls
Mountain Biking Trails in Pisgah near Brevard
Most of the best mountain bike trails in North Carolina can be found in Pisgah near Brevard. In fact, thousands of mountain bikers visit the area every year to take advantage of the gravel roads, steep mountain trails, and the 300 miles of singletrack trails along mountain ridges in Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Recreational Forest.
The majority of mountain bike trails in the area are located in the Pisgah Ranger District section of the National Forest, one of the forest’s three ranger districts. The trails are known for their difficult climbs and drops, although it is possible to find trails for all levels. Here are a few Pisgah mountain biking trails you might want to try.
1. Bennet Gap Trail – This trail is 3 miles long with excellent ridge-top views, technical sections, and more than 50 percent is singletrack. It is for advanced riders only.
2. Buckwheat Knob Trail – This steep, mile-long mountain bike trail provides plenty of technical challenge.
3. Butter Gap – Starting out flat, this trail follows along a stream and transitions to a stiff technical climb.
4. Farlow Gap – This trail is 3 miles long with a steep gravel climb and a high-speed downhill.
5. Black Mountain Trail – With four sections, this mountain bike trail has a high forest setting and sure-fire climbs.
6. Kitsuma – This mountain bike trail features steep climbs with a backdrop of Mount Mitchell and a steep descent.
7. Green’s Lick – Beginning with a 4-mile climb, this trail thrills riders by ending with a steep 5-mile descent.
Other outdoor activities at Pisgah National Forest
In addition to hiking, trail running, and mountain biking, Pisgah National Forest also offers several other attractions. The Sycamore Flats Recreation Area is a great place to try out fly-fishing in the Davidson River or to enjoy for a picnic lunch. At the Fish Hatchery, there is a visitor center with exhibits and hiking trails to John’s Rock.
At the Cradle of Forestry, you will find exhibits about the history of the region and the inception of the U.S. Forest Service, a logging train exhibit, a butterfly garden, historical cabins, and a large picnic area.
Land of Waterfalls RV Park is the Place to Stay
If you are planning a trip to the Brevard area, Land of Waterfalls RV Park is an ideal place to stay. It is near Pisgah National Forest, DuPont State Forest, the towns of Brevard, Hendersonville, and Asheville, and many other attractions.
Everything you need for a comfortable stay in your RV is provided. There are four full service RV sites available for rent. Each comes with power outlets, well water, and pump out service.
Conclusion
If you are looking for an amazing getaway that offers world-class mountain biking and hiking trails as well as many other attractions, Pisgah near Brevard might be the perfect choice. Land of Waterfalls is an ideal place to stay for anyone planning a vacation in the Pisgah/ Brevard area.
