Spanning more than 500,000 acres across Western North Carolina, Pisgah National Forest is a playground for outdoor lovers and one of the most scenic places to explore. From towering waterfalls and thundering creeks to sun-soaked ridgelines and high-elevation balds, this treasured national forest has no shortage of remarkable places to explore.
The Pisgah National Forest is divided into three ranger districts: Pisgah, Grandfather and Appalachian. Each has its own highlights, from mountain biking meccas to fly-fishing streams and wilderness areas like Linville Gorge.
As you take advantage of these stunning natural spaces, be sure to remember the Outdoor NC Leave No Trace Principles to help preserve the forest for generations to come.
Feel the spray from Looking Glass Falls, one of the most accessible and photogenic waterfalls in North Carolina. Located only an easy 5-minute walk from the main road, this is a popular pitstop for travelers riding along the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway/US 276.
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Nature’s Wildest Waterslide
Sliding Rock is a natural 60-foot rock waterslide near Brevard. Cold mountain water from Looking Glass Creek rushes over the smooth granite surface, offering a refreshing plunge into a deep pool, making it a favorite summer tradition for locals and visitors alike.
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Far as the Eye Can See
The Black Balsam Knob area offers some of the most scenic hikes in North Carolina. That is because the high altitudes lead to treeless mountain balds, allowing for sweeping 360-degree views over layered mountain ranges and ever-changing skies.
Linville Gorge
Carved by Time
Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Linville Gorge offers everything from dramatic overlooks like Wiseman’s View to challenging backcountry hikes. It’s a haven for adventurers seeking raw, unfiltered Appalachian beauty.
