The Epic 5-Mile Trail in Pisgah National Forest is Worth the View

Some of my favorite North Carolina hiking trails are those that push you beyond your comfort zone. I’m not necessarily talking about the strenuous, technical ascents that require you to watch every step. I’m talking about the ones that push you just a little bit further than your typical hiking trail. The ones where you can feel your calves burning, but it’s a good burn. The types of hiking trails where you feel like you just graduated to a new level of outdoor warrior. 

The Pisgah National Forest is home to some of the best hiking trails in North Carolina. At a staggering 512,758 acres, it was one of the first national forests established in the United States (in 1916). The forest features some of the most rugged terrain in the southern Appalachian Mountains, making it ideal for individuals seeking to elevate their hiking skills. 

The Looking Glass Rock Trail is a 5.6-mile out-and-back trail that is one of the most popular in the Pisgah National Forest. It features 1,679 feet of elevation gain, but your efforts will be rewarded with a stunning view. 

The trailhead begins on Fish Hatchery Road, and from there, you’ll see the steepest sections on the first three miles. It’s pretty much all incline for the first half, paired with switchbacks, so you’re not going straight up. 

A few miles in, you'll notice a flat, rocky area. That's actually used as a helicopter landing pad for rock climbing and rescue operations. There's a little side quest you can take in this area that will lead you to a beautiful view. It's not the summit view, but it's equally stunning!

The trail is only about an hour away from Downtown Asheville, so it can easily be made a day trip from the city. The hike to the summit is a beautiful hike through an old-growth forest filled with wildflowers and even a few woodland critters to enjoy. Speaking of critters, keep an eye out for snakes if you’re planning this adventure during the warmer months. 

Once you reach the summit, you can find a spot to sit back and enjoy the view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. I love this view any time of year, but trust me when I say that this is one of the best places to see the fall foliage in North Carolina. Not only is the hike filled with those iconic fall colors, but then you get to see the summit view and can take in a bird’s-eye view of the mountains peppered in oranges, yellows, and reds. 

Since this hike can take three to four hours, be sure to bring enough water to stay hydrated. I’m a big fan of summit snacks, so feel free to pack some energy bars, trail mix, or a sandwich in your bag to enjoy at the top. This is a dog-friendly trail; just make sure to keep them on a leash.

For more North Carolina hiking trails, check out some of our favorite underrated forest hikes in the state. Plan your own trip to some of the best hiking trails in North Carolina with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.