Southwest of
Asheville, North Carolina lies
Transylvania County, the '
Land of Waterfalls'. This beautiful landscape has most everything that mountain outdoors has to offer; gorgeous mountain views, terrific hiking trails, exhilarating waterfalls, horseback riding, mountain biking, picture perfect picnic sites, and fabulous fly fishing to name a few. Transylvania County is the home to the
Pisgah National Forest,
DuPont State Recreational Forest,
Gorges State Park, and the
Cradle of Forestry. The
Blue Ridge Parkway also winds its way through Transylvania County as it
stretches from Northern Virginia to Western North Carolina.
Pisgah National Forest
 |
| Looking Glass Falls |
Pisgah National Forest is an outdoor enthusiast paradise. Many of Transylvania's most notable waterfalls lie within the borders of Pisgah National Forest which include, Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock Falls, Moore Cove Falls, Slick Rock Falls, Daniel Ridge Falls, Cedar Rock Falls, Grogan Creek Falls, Twin Falls, and Courthouse Falls.
While Looking Glass Falls is the most accessible and most impressive, Sliding Rock Falls is the most entertaining Thousands of visitors slide down the rock into the chilly waters waiting at the bottom. Slick Rock falls and Courthouse Falls are located near a gravel parking area. Moore Cove Falls and Daniel Ridge Falls can be reached with an easy hike. Cedar Rock Falls, Grogan Creek Falls, and Twin Falls require a vigorous hike to view.
Make it a quest to visit each waterfall the Pisgah National Forest has to offer. Whether you are looking for a day adventure, weekend getaway, or an extended vacation Pisgah National Forest provides a great getaway. Each waterfall provides a unique experience. Visit one or visit them all. Beautiful waterfalls are waiting to be discovered.
 |
| Courthouse Falls |
 |
| Slick Rock Falls |
Pisgah National Forest also contains challenging hiking trails.
Looking Glass Rock trail is 6.2 miles round trip to the top of
Looking Glass Rock and rises over 1500 feet from the beginning of the trail to the summit. The mountain range view from the top of Looking Glass Rock is breathtaking.
John's Rock is another adventure trail located within the Pisgah National Forest. This trail begins at the
Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education and rises 1000 feet. The round trip journey is five miles. John's Rock hiking attractions include spectacular views, access to Cedar Rock Falls, and lovable log bridges.
For an in depth look at
Looking Glass Rock Trail [click here].
For an in depth look at
John's Rock Trail [click here].
 |
| Daniel Ridge Falls |
 |
| Moore Cove Falls |
With so many activities to explore within Pisgah National Forest an overnight camping trip may be in order.
Davidson River Campgrounds provides a more civilized camping experience with over 150 camping sites, modern facilities including hot showers, and limited number of sites with electric hook-ups. If you prefer a more rugged camping experience here are plenty of roadside campsites to choose from. Most are ideally located along the branches and streams that feed into the Davidson River. There are no hook-ups for the roadside campsites so bring your tent and camping gear.
 |
| Cedar Rock Falls |
 |
| Grogan Creek Falls |
Perhaps picnicking is your pleasure. There are numerous picnic sites scattered throughout the Pisgah National Forest equipped to accommodate both large gatherings or single family outings. Sycamore Falls picnic area has covered sheds and restroom facilities with a convenient access to Davidson River. If you prefer roadside picnic tables then Pisgah National Forest has those too. Come early and come often. Easy access makes Pisgah National Forest the ideal place to make memorable moments that will last a lifetime.
