Nestled in the secret recesses of the Appalachian Mountains, this national forest is a true treasure to explore, offering breathtaking vistas that rival those of the famous Great Smoky Mountains. Here, no intrusive crowds, but a symphony of colors and sounds that transports us to the heart of wild nature. Imagine winding paths winding through majestic trees, crystal clear rivers whispering age-old secrets and peaks kissed by mist: a haven of peace where every step resonates with birdsong and the murmur of the wind. Prepare for an immersive journey into a world where natural beauty reigns supreme, far from the beaten track.
Welcome to the Pisgah National Forest #
Less than half an hour from Asheville, North Carolina is the Pisgah National Forest, a preserved and much less crowded alternative to the famous Great Smoky Mountains. If you’re looking for a wilderness adventure without the crowds, this hidden gem might just be your secret destination.
A diversity of outdoor activities #
With its magnificent mountain ridges, lush valleys and crystal clear rivers, the Pisgah Forest offers a multitude of activities for nature lovers:
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- Hiking
- Mountain bike
- Fishing and hunting
- Kayak and canoe
Pisgah also allows for greater freedom than a national park, with less strict rules and many opportunities for wild camping without a permit.
Breathtaking hikes #
The legendary 2,100-plus-mile Appalachian Trail passes through Pisgah, and a favorite among hikers is Max Patch Mountain. This treeless peak, covered in a green meadow, offers breathtaking panoramic views. You can take a day hike there or maybe get inspired to take on a big hike on the long Appalachian Trail.
Another equally rewarding hiking area is the Linville Gorge. This 2,000-foot-deep canyon, with its rocky terrain, has preserved old-growth forests intact. A short 1-mile hike to the ridges of Hawksbill Mountain will give you epic views worthy of rivaling any panorama in the Smoky Mountains.
The land of waterfalls #
The area of Pisgah National Forest on the outskirts of the city of Brevard is known as “Land of the Cascades”. Among the must-see waterfalls, we find:
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- Looking Glass Falls: A 60-foot roadside waterfall perfect for cooling off in the summer.
- Moore Cove Falls: An easy hike on a wooden trail through ferns and rhododendrons leads to this peaceful falls.
- Crabtree Falls: for the more adventurous, this more demanding hike leads to a majestic and wild waterfall.
If you’re in the mood for an adventure story, rent a kayak on Lake Jocassee and set out in search of the hidden and uncrowded Laurel Fork Falls.
Other activities not to be missed in the Pisgah National Forest #
After a water adventure, visit the beautiful gardens surrounding Biltmore Castle, a former residence of the Vanderbilt family. This collection of 8,000 acres of fields, forests, and gardens was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, also designer of Central Park in New York.
THE Blue Ridge Parkway, also known as “America’s Favorite Road,” runs through Pisgah. The Pisgah Inn, located at the highest point of this 469-mile route, offers stunning views at every table. A short hike after a hearty breakfast will take you to the top of Mount Pisgah for even more spectacular views.
For thrill-seekers, Granite City offers climbing courses suitable for beginners, while the Pisgah Paddler, a mixed trail for the new sport of bikepaddling (part cycling, part paddling), tests your skills on gravel courses and the French Broad River.
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