Best Hikes in Pisgah National Forest, NC

Default image for Mt. Mitchell via Black Mountain Crest Trail, a 11.2-mile trail in Burnsville, NC (US)

11.2 mi
18 km

Strenuous One-Way

Mt. Mitchell via Black Mountain Crest Trail

4.0

Burnsville, North Carolina

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Default image for Mount Mitchell Trail, a 10.9-mile trail in Burnsville, NC (US)

10.9 mi
17.5 km

Hard Out-and-Back

Mount Mitchell Trail

3.33

Burnsville, North Carolina

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Default image for Roan Highlands Hike, a 18.2-mile trail in Roan Mountain, TN (US)

18.2 mi
29.3 km

Strenuous Out-and-Back

Roan Highlands Hike

5.0

Roan Mountain, Tennessee

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Default image for Woody Ridge Trail, a 10.1-mile trail in Burnsville, NC (US)

10.1 mi
16.3 km

Strenuous Loop

Woody Ridge Trail

5.0

Burnsville, North Carolina

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Default image for Cold Mountain Hike, a 9.8-mile trail in Waynesville, NC (US)

9.8 mi
15.8 km

Hard Out-and-Back

Cold Mountain Hike

0.0

Waynesville, North Carolina

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Default image for Roan Mountain Hike, a 16.3-mile trail in Roan Mountain, TN (US)

16.3 mi
26.2 km

Hard Out-and-Back

Roan Mountain Hike

0.0

Roan Mountain, Tennessee

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Default image for Pinch In Trail and Rock Jock Trail Hike, a 9.0-mile trail in Linville Gorge Wilderness, NC (US)

9 mi
14.5 km

Strenuous Loop

Pinch In Trail and Rock Jock Trail Hike

4.33

Linville Gorge Wilderness, North Carolina

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Default image for Max Patch Hike, a 7.0-mile trail in Joe, NC (US)

7 mi
11.3 km

Moderate Out-and-Back

Max Patch Hike

4.0

Joe, North Carolina

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Default image for Big Butt Trail Hike, a 14.3-mile trail in Burnsville, NC (US)

14.3 mi
23 km

Strenuous Out-and-Back

Big Butt Trail Hike

0.0

Burnsville, North Carolina

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Default image for Roaring Fork Falls Hike, a 1.3-mile trail in Burnsville, NC (US)

1.3 mi
2.1 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Roaring Fork Falls Hike

4.5

Burnsville, North Carolina

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Default image for Steels Creek Falls Hike, a 6.0-mile trail in Jonas Ridge, NC (US)

6 mi
9.7 km

Hard Out-and-Back

Steels Creek Falls Hike

4.5

Jonas Ridge, North Carolina

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Default image for Devils Courthouse and Sam Knob Hike, a 10.5-mile trail in Balsam Grove, NC (US)

10.5 mi
16.9 km

Hard Loop

Devils Courthouse and Sam Knob Hike

4.33

Balsam Grove, North Carolina

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Key Takeaways

Pisgah National Forest offers diverse outdoor activities near Old Fort, NC, including hiking, mountain biking, camping, and waterfall viewing.

The forest is known for its rugged terrain, scenic drives, and numerous trails catering to various skill levels.

Visitors should research specific trail conditions, camping regulations, and weather forecasts before their trip to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

About Pisgah National Forest

Explore the diverse hiking trails of Pisgah National Forest in Western North Carolina, near Old Fort, NC. From challenging climbs with panoramic views to gentle walks to stunning waterfalls, Pisgah offers something for every hiker. Discover iconic destinations like the Linville Gorge Wilderness, home to the popular Babel Tower Trail, and experience the unparalleled beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. Always check for seasonal closures, wilderness regulations, and pack accordingly, prioritizing safety and Leave No Trace principles.

Venture into Pisgah National Forest for unforgettable outdoor adventures. Hike to the summit of Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi, or discover hidden gems like Cove Creek Falls, perfect for a refreshing dip. Whether you're seeking a strenuous backpacking trip or a leisurely nature walk, the trails of Pisgah, including Shortoff Trail and Catawba Falls Trail, offer a range of experiences amid breathtaking scenery. Remember to research your chosen route, consider the difficulty level, and come prepared for varying weather conditions and potential hazards.