Transylvania County is a hiker’s paradise, and each season offers something unique to experience. Summer’s dense green canopy, Fall’s colorful foliage, Winter’s long-range views, and Spring’s bouquet of wildflowers are all stunning in their own way. Pro tip, to avoid crowds while enjoying your time outside, these hikes are best experienced in the early morning or late afternoon.
Because Transylvania County is the Land of Waterfalls, it’s only natural that many of these trails will lead to a cascade. It is important to use caution and Be Waterfall Wise. And don’t forget to learn how you can Be like Trashsquatch and Leave It Better. All of us here in Transylvania County are passionate about protecting our woods and water. When you practice Leave It Better principles, you’re doing your part to ensure that these special places are here to enjoy for future generations.
With so many trails to conquer, choosing the perfect one can be intimidating. Luckily, we’ve broken down a few of our favorites so that you can pick the perfect trek based on difficulty.
Kid-Friendly
Andy Cove Trail
This trail winds its way back to scenic Andy Cove via a footpath and boardwalks. Midway through, you’ll reach a 30-foot suspension bridge. There are also two small streams along the path.
Distance: 0.7 mile loop
Directions to Trailhead: From the intersection of US 276, NC 280, and US 64 in Pisgah Forest, head north on US 276 for 1.6 miles to the Pisgah Forest Ranger Station.
StoryWalks
Here’s a great way to combine a walk in the woods with the written word. There are three StoryWalks trails in Transylvania County that pair up easy trails with fun children’s books.
Easy
Hooker Falls
This trail makes for a great introduction to DuPont State Recreational Forest. At the turnaround spot (it's an out-and-back hike), you’ll encounter Hooker Falls — the site of a former grist mill and a perfect spot for a picnic.
Distance: 0.8 miles out-and-back
Directions to Trailhead: From the intersection of US 276 and US 64 in downtown Brevard, travel south on US 276 for 11 miles. Turn left on Cascade Lake Road and go 2.5 miles. Turn right on Staton Road and travel 2.5 miles to the Hooker Falls parking lot.
Moore Cove Falls
This grotto-like waterfall is a unique cascade tucked into the hillside in the Pisgah Forest. The hike has limited parking, so remember to get there early.
Distance: 1.2 miles out-and-back
Directions to Trailhead: From the intersection of US 276, NC 280, and US 64, enter Pisgah Forest heading north on US 276 for 6.7 miles to the parking area on the right.
Moderate
Devil’s Courthouse
This short hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway has incredible views of the surrounding mountains. Though this trek is steep, every step to the top is worth the reward.
Distance: 0.8 miles out-and-back
Directions to Trailhead: From the intersection of US 276 and the Blue Ridge Parkway, head south on the BRP to milepost 422.4.
John Rock Trail
This hike is a great workout with gorgeous views of neighboring Looking Glass Rock. We urge caution when you reach John Rock. This sloping rock face can be treacherous even in dry weather.
Distance: 4.6 mile loop
Directions to Trailhead: From the intersection of US 276, US 64, and NC 280, enter Pisgah National Forest. Go 5.3 miles on US 276 and turn left onto FR-475. Go 1.4 miles and turn left into the parking lot.
Difficult
Rainbow Falls Trail
Located in Gorges State Park, this popular trail descends to the Horsepasture River before beginning a fairly strenuous climb to the falls, but the effort is worth it. If you’ve got energy to burn you can continue up the trail to Turtle Back Falls and Drift Falls.
Distance: 3.9 miles out-and-back
Directions to Trailhead: From downtown Brevard, go west on US 64 toward Sapphire for 18.2 miles. Turn left on NC 281 and go 0.7 miles. Turn left into the park entrance and proceed to Grassy Ridge parking lot.
Art Loeb and North Slope Loop
With almost 1500 feet of climbing, this loop is perfect if you’re looking to combine a vigorous workout with lots of variety – including river crossings, wildflowers, and dense forest.
Distance: 7.2 mile loop
Directions to Trailhead: From the Pisgah Ranger Station, turn left on US 276, go ¼ mile, and turn right onto the Davidson River Campground Road. Start from the Art Loeb Trailhead parking lot.
