Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Big Ivy Wilderness Study Area, located in western North Carolina, is a region of rich biodiversity and profound natural beauty. Covering an expansive landscape within the Pisgah National Forest, the area is characterized by rugged terrain and vast hardwood forests. It is home to an array of flora and fauna, providing a crucial habitat for species such as black bears, white-tailed deer, and a variety of songbirds. Historically, the area has been important for its timber, but conservation efforts in recent decades have been aimed at preserving its natural state and facilitating recreational opportunities. Key activities include hiking and mountain biking along a network of trails that traverse through hardwood forests and past tumbling waterfalls, including the notable Douglas Falls. The area's pristine streams are popular with anglers seeking brook trout. Visitors to Big Ivy Wilderness Study Area can also enjoy expansive winter views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
