// March 16th, 2009 // 2 Comments » // Asheville Hiking
A moderate 3.2-mile out and back hike through a high alpine valley with two picturesque waterfalls. Start the hike at the lower end of the parking area. Be sure to stop at the first viewing platform to catch a glimpse of the first waterfall.
Directions from Asheville: Head south on the Blue Ridge Parkway to milepost 410 to parking area for Graveyard Fields Overlook.
// March 16th, 2009 // 2 Comments » // Asheville Hiking
This short, one mile hike on the Appalachian Trail takes you across the 4,600-foot grassy knob of Max Patch, which offers 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks. This is great hike with kids due to the easy access from the parking area. Likewise, kick back with a picnic and bring your kite.
Directions from Asheville: Take I-40 W to Exit 7, right on Cold Springs Rd. for 6 miles, left on Max Patch Rd. for 2 miles. Total trip is about 45 minute from Asheville.
// March 16th, 2009 // 1 Comment » // Asheville Hiking
In just 4.5 miles, Deep Gap Trail crosses four 6,000-foot peaks while taking hikers across rocky out croppings and through spruce-fir forests. This trail takes you down Mt. Mitchell and up to the peak of Mt. Craig. Also, don’t forget your binoculars because this is a great spot to catch a glimpse of the Winter Wren and Blackburnian Warbler.
Directions from Asheville: Head north on the Blue Ridge Parkway to milepost 388 to the entrance of Mt. Mitchell State Park. The trail starts near the picnic area at the beginning of the parking area.
// March 16th, 2009 // No Comments » // Asheville Hiking
Looking Glass Rock’s stone face is one of the more recognizable landmarks from the Blue Ridge Parkway. The shear face is a popular climbing spot while the trail to the summit rewards hikers with stunning views. This moderately difficult hike climbs 1700 feet in 3 miles and is well marked with yellow blazes. As with all summit hikes, be careful when you reach the top.
Directions from Asheville: Take 1-26 E to Exit 40/Airport Rd. Turn right on NC 280 towards Brevard. Follow NC 280 for about 16 miles to the intersection of Hwy 276 (look for the Bi Lo and Wal-Mart). Turn right on Hwy 276 for 5.3 miles and turn left at the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education sign. Go another half mile to parking on the right.
// March 16th, 2009 // 1 Comment » // Asheville Hiking
This 2.2-mile out and back hike starts at 5,800 feet in elevation and ascends through a “Canadian” ecosystem of evergreen forests and expansive meadows until it reaches the double peak of Sam Knob at 6,050 feet. Many say the 360-degree view from this 6,000-foot bald mountain is the best in Western North Carolina. You can do an out and back hike on the Sam Knob trail or you can do a loop by adding the Flat Laurel Creek Trail. The loop will add another 3.5 miles to the total hike.
Directions from Asheville: Head south on the Blue Ridge Parkway to milepost 420. Turn right on Forest Service Rd. 816 for 1.2 miles to the parking area.
