Hiking Hotspot: Mt. Pisgah in Western North Carolina
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Mt Pisgah, located within the Pisgah National Forest, is a prominent mountain easily visible from Asheville. The trek to the 5721 foot summit is the perfect option for adventurous fitness buffs seeking an intense hike. Located at Milepost 407 on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Western North Carolina, this hike is quite popular with tourists visiting Asheville and nearby mountain towns like Boone and Hendersonville. This hike is a popular respite during the hot Carolina summer season, and also a prime leaf peeping destination during the picturesque fall foliage season. If you are seeking a longer Parkway hike, located within close proximity to Asheville, consider adding a hike to Mt. Pisgah to your itinerary. I recently checked this hike out on a relatively slow fall day. Not quite at peak yet, but I did enjoy the scenery plus a hint of autumn in the air.
History of Mt. Pisgah
Mt. Pisgah is part of the beautiful Blue Ridge mountain range. The summit hike is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, about 15 miles southwest of Asheville. The close proximity to Asheville make it a great choice for those looking to keep the drive short. The most notable feature of this mountain is a 339 foot broadcast tower (WLOS Channel 13 in Asheville) located on the summit. On an interesting side note, it is reportedly the highest TV antenna east of the Mississippi river. Although the tower does distract a bit from the view at the top, there is a small observation deck which looks out upon the mountains.
The Pisgah National Forest was established in 1915, making it one of the first national forests on the East coast. In the late 1800’s, George Vanderbilt owned 125,000 acres of land including Mt. Pisgah. The Weeks Act in 1911 allowed the US Forest Service to purchase forested lands. In 1914, the forest service purchased 80,000 acres including Mt. Pisgah. The Vanderbilt’s kept 476 acres in Buck Springs Gap and built a lodge. Remains of the Buck Springs Lodge can be viewed via an easy 1 mile hike along the Buck Springs Gap trail (begins at the same parking area as Mt. Pisgah).
According to the NPS, the name Pisgah is biblical in origin. In Deuteronomy, The Lord ordered Moses to go to the top of Mt. Pisgah to reveal the “Promised Land.” Pisgah translates to summit in Hebrew. In 1776, Reverend James Hall named the mountain.
Read more about the history of Mt. Pisgah
The hike to the summit
A moderate 1.6 mile hike leads you up to the 5721 foot summit. While the first half mile or so is quite easy, the hike gradually progresses to a very steep climb. The rigorous climb will definitely satisfy avid hikers/fitness buffs. Note – please make sure that you can handle a fairly steep 1 mile climb. The overall elevation gain is over 700 feet. You will definitely get in a fantastic all over body workout. Sore legs the next day is a guarantee!
After meandering through a Northern Red Oak Forest you will eventually reach a heath bald at the summit. Leaf peeping is a treat during the fall season and will help motivate you to continue on the challenging uphill climb. It timed my hike just a little before peak, although it was still quite beautiful. From the summit, you will enjoy views of the Shining Rock Wilderness Area. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the famous Biltmore Estate. While this is not the most scenic summit hike on the Parkway (Devil’s Courthouse and Craggy Pinnacle offer better views in my opinion), it’s an enjoyable and challenging feat.
A few views from the hike
Summertime is a great time to plan your visit as the temps at this high of an altitude are oftentimes refreshingly cool in comparison to the hot and humid summers experienced by Asheville.
The haunting of the Pisgah National Forest
North Carolina has a long history of paranormal occurrences. Most infamously, for hundreds of years, people have claimed to see bright orbs near Brown Mountain. This unexplained phenomenon has puzzled ghost researchers and attracted the attention of numerous publications including the Travel Channel. On another unique side note, rare Blue Ghost fireflies only inhabit this region. These rare fireflies glow a bluish color during mating season (late spring-early summer). Tours are available – check the website for more details.
Although it draws the most press, paranormal occurrences are not limited to Brown Mountain. Many ghost sightings have occurred over the decades. Really, not a surprise given the isolated, dreary, and mysterious vibe of the forest. Many off-the-beaten path trails are located deep within the remote wilderness where you may not see a single hiker. As you walk through a creepy forest all by yourself, the ghost sightings are quite more believable.
There’s also been no shortage of “real life” horror in the forest. One of the most notorious serial killers in the state, Gary Michael Hilton aka “The National Forest Serial Killer,” committed a series of murders in several national forests, one being the Pisgah National Forest. Along with various murders, many hikers have mysteriously disappeared.
The Pisgah has its’ fair share of horror stories. And large portions of the forest are eerie and desolate. Strangely, our phone went completely dead while hiking Mt. Pisgah despite being 100% charged, on battery saver, and on airplane mode. This has never happened before. Sadly, we did not get as many pictures as we intended to due to this strange occurrence.
However, keep in mind that there are many wonderful waterfalls and trails to explore in the Pisgah, just be cautious, never hike beyond your comfort level, and always let others know were you will be!
Directions & parking
The hike begins at Milepost 407.6 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Parking is free, although it often fills up fast on busy weekends. Restrooms and picnic facilities are located at the Mt. Pisgah Inn at Milepost 408.6.
FAQ
How long will this hike take?
I would plan at least an hour and a half, more if you are not in the best shape.
How far is it from Asheville?
The drive will take about an hour, more if you stop at the scenic overlooks along the route.
Where to eat before hiking?
Asheville is home to such a great local food scene. Even the breakfast restaurants are great. Check out a few of my favorite local breakfast cafes.
Can you recommend any other great summit hikes?
Living just minutes from the Parkway has given me so many options to explore. I have hiked most of the summit trails. Devil’s Courthouse is an amazing hike where you will be treated to gorgeous mountain views from several surrounding states. Here is my guide to the best-of-the-best near Asheville.
