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Filled with peaks, waterfalls, and hiking trails, there’s outdoor fun here for everyone.
It’s a destination for outdoor adventure all year round and offers up acre after acre of unforgettable views.
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Here’s how to spend some time in this mountain oasis where you’ll find so much to discover.
According to theBlue Ridge National Heritage Area, “Pisgah National Forest is named after Mt.
Pisgah National Forest became the first National Forest in the eastern United States in 1916.”
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While natural wonders abound, humans also made history here.
At 6,039 feet above sea level, hiking it is difficult.
Stop at theMile 412 overlookon the Blue Ridge Parkway for views without the strenuous trek.
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Explore Mount Hardy
Mount Hardy rises over 6,000 feet in the forest.
If you’re looking for adventure and solitude, grab a map and compass for this one.
Enjoy panoramic views and spruce-fir forests while walking the 1.3-mile dog-friendly trail.
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The 5-mile mountain ridge blooms with many thousands of colorful rhododendrons each year.
The forest lies in several N.C. counties, including Transylvania County, which boasts more than 250 waterfalls.
Looking Glass Creek, which flows past the rock, is also named for the impressive natural structure."
Credit: Robbie Caponetto
The 60-foot slide ends in a pool of water that’s 8-10 feet deep.
They make up the deepest gorge in the eastern United States.
Jillian Meyer Photo/Getty Images
Hike The Trails
Trails and scenic routes crisscross the forest.
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you’re able to findmaps of area trailsavailable to download from the Forest Service.
The 1,700-foot change in elevation is made easier by numerous switchbacks.
The last mile of the trail is steep, but the panoramic views make it worth it.
Blueberries ripen here in the fall.
You’ll find small towns, meandering rivers, and breathtaking vistas.
Plan to stop at some of its mosticonic spotswhile you’re there.
Many places around Pisgah National Forest do close during winter, so plan accordingly.
Park your bike and sit back on the outdoor patio.
Beers and food trucks rotate regularly.
Its menu features local and regional specialties like pan-fried trout.
The Appalachian Grilled Cheese is filled with Virginia ham, tomato jam, and Appalachian cheese.
The restaurant is closed during winter.
The mountain trout can be filleted tableside upon request and is a customer favorite.
Make reservations for dinner, or pick up grab-and-go meals.
Lodging ranges from primitive campsites to cabins with modern amenities.
Access biking trails and outdoor activities steps from your private cabin.
Each room has a private balcony or porch facing Pisgah National Forest and Looking Glass Rock.
Permits and reservations are required for some sites, so book early.
Blendcamping adventurewith the comforts of home at Lake Powhatan Glamping.
One step inside their platform tents reveals a cozy queen bed, bedside table, and lighting.
recreation.gov
pisgah-glamping.com, 375 Wesley Branch Rd.
Asheville, NC 28806
Forest Service U.S. Department of Agriculture.Looking Glass Falls.
