Flower Gap in October

Next week we are headed to Brevard, NC to hike and camp in and around the Pisgah National Forest for four days. This area has been one of my favorite areas for over twenty years. Most of the time we stay in the Davidson River Campground but last time we choose a Bed & Breakfast in Brevard. Either option provides a convenient base to hike from.

Just a short drive up Highway 276 is the Blue Ridge Parkway. Along the way you will enter the Cradle of Forestry a 6500 acre historic site in the Pink Beds Valley, definitely worth a visit. You will also pass numerous trail heads along either side of the road. One favorite short hike is Moore Cove Falls. This is an easy and kid friendly hike from 276 to a scenic waterfall. Waterfalls are plentiful in the area and an entire trip could be spent just seeing a fraction of them. In fact, Transylvania County has more waterfalls than any other North Carolina county.

If you need some maps or books on the area stop in and see Looking Glass Outfitters. Even though we offer an online outdoor retail store; we always try to support the local businesses wherever we go. Without them we would loose our local experts. This outfitter also offers guide services.

Once up on the Blue Ridge Parkway, head to Graveyard Fields for another easy waterfall hike or hike the Art Loeb Trail out to Shining Rock. On the way to Shining Rock you will pass Flower Gap. By far, this is one of my favorite places for a picnic in the spring or fall. High on a ridge, it offers fantastic views.

Next week I will gather more pictures and trip reports to share. In the meantime I would love to hear about your favorite N.C. hikes. Maybe we call all fine some new destinations. If anyone would like to know more about the hikes in Pisgah, feel free to email me. I have spent a lot of time on the trails there and would love to share!