Spread over an area of 500,000 acres covered with hardwood forest, whitewater rivers and thundering waterfalls, the Pisgah National Forest is the place to be, if you want to indulge in recreational activities!
Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video.
Drive through Blue Ridge Parkway
The scenic parkway travels through the forest towards north and south of Asheville.
There are more than 469 miles of drive through the rugged mountains, beautiful landscapes and long-range vistas of the Appalachian Highlands.
Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video.
Rock Climbing at Looking Glass Rock
At a height of 3969 feet, the Looking Glass Rock is a natural marvel! It is named because of its mirror-like appearance when the rainwater freezes on its whiteside granite surface.
With about 6.2 miles (round trip) of scenic hiking on offer, who would want to miss the fantastic views from the top of the rock?
Visit the Cradle of Forestry
At this historic discovery center, you can see several interactive exhibits alongside a 28-minute movie titled - First in Forestry: Carl Schenck and the Biltmore Forest School.
You can also have a 'forest firefighting experience' at their helicopter simulator!
Hiking at Rocky Bluff Recreation Area
A haven for hikers, the Rocky Bluff area features hiking trails like the 1.6-mile Spring Creek Trail where you can witness an abundance of wildflowers!
At the 1.1-mile trail to Hickey Fork Waterfall, you can observe the spray-cliff natural community at work. Also, if you are in the mood of some fishing, you can head straight to the Spring Creek area for some trout fishing experience!
Camp at the Pink Beds
Aptly named after the pink wildflowers found in the region, the Pink Beds off the Blue Ridge Parkway is a popular destination for camping, horseback riding, fishing, and swimming.
With a flat terrain dominated by huge pine trees, rare mountain bogs, mountain laurel and rhododendron, this place is a haven for naturalists!
Click Pictures at Looking Glass Falls
Located off the scenic US Highway 276, the 75-feet waterfall is a scenic spot to wait and admire. You can take the stairs down the falls to get a closer look of the beauty.
Picnicking at Craggy Gardens
Covered in beautiful fall colors with purple rhododendron and other wildflowers blooming during June and July, the Craggy Gardens is a wonderful place to enjoy lunch in the fresh mountain air!
Backpacking at Linville Gorge Wilderness Area
Having remnants of the uncut southern Appalachian forests, the Linville George is a playground for hikers, backpackers and rock climbers!
There are 39 miles of trails with steep slopes that lead to the Linville Gorge Trail where you can witness the beautiful Linville river. You will also witness wildlife such as deer, bear, raccoon, turkey and ruffled grouse while at the trail or the waterfall!