Pisgah Forest

Pisgah Forest is an unincorporated community in Transylvania County, North Carolina, United States. It sits at an elevation of 2100 feet along U.S. Route 64, northeast of Brevard. It is approximately a 30-minute drive from the Asheville Regional Airport. Wikipedia.
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Multi-city stops

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Top places to visit

4.5
(404)
Mentioned on 
Bicycle Shop
Beer garden
Beer store
Bicycle rental service
Bicycle repair shop
Camping store
Fantastic spot we happened upon after a hike in Pisgah. Cute shop and great selection of local beer on tap and in cans. You can enjoy your beer on the patio or as you walk around the store.
Rebecca Matlock — Google review
Coolest bike shop I've been to. My favorite part is the service section, because they have a bunch of super nice bike parts stocked up on the shelves like handlebars and headsets and all that. Love it.
uᴉʞuǝɾ — Google review
The Hub is always a good place to come when you're making a trip down Brevard. A great selection of bicycles and cycling related clothing. The food trucks are a plus so delicious and the bar is nice as well. The staff is knowledgeable about the local trail system and very nice and helping you get to where you're going or getting you anything you need for your riding adventure.
Ryan — Google review
I was in Asheville to visit and had traveled with my enduro bike from Bellingham, WA. . I had a hub failure on my first climb. Brought in my bike to The Hub and I have never had a better experience at a bike shop. They went above and beyond and did whatever it took to get me back out on the trails and enjoying my trip. Kelly got me set up with a temp wheel and I can’t thank you all enough for how awesome you were. You made a terrible situation a great experience and I can’t rave enough about the customer service.
Cody Crook — Google review
Very cool and big place with nice beers! Nice outdoor area with food trucks surrounding it. Staffs are accommodating and understanding to give some recommendations.
Roxanne — Google review
This bike shop was the coolest place I've been to in a while. Great selection of bikes to choose from. Food and coffee vendors outside on the property. Very friendly staff and a bar inside for an after ride beverage. Will definitely be back.
Aj Bitterman — Google review
Great experience here as always. Rented a bike for the second weekend here and no regrets. KJ and the entire rental shop were super friendly and helpful, giving us trail route recommendations and making sure our bikes were up to par before heading out. We love coming to this shop for the whole experience and culture they’ve created. Thanks guys
Chase Kelly — Google review
Hands down the coolest bike shop I have ever been to. After getting my Floridian a** handed to me by a trail they warm up on(Sycamore Cove), I stopped in for a beer and a chat. Everyone was welcoming, I went there multiple times during our stay. The Hub is the first place I went to after nailing a tree coming down Ridgeline, nothing like a cold beer after a nice wreck. Definitely a must see if you’re in the area, even if you’re not a cyclist or outdoorsy.
Stephen Sinclair — Google review
Super awesome venue with all of your outdoor needs. Very friendly staff, and a spacious outdoor seating area to enjoy your wide selection of brews they offer! Highly recommend stopping by, plenty of parking.
Madison Taylor — Google review
Having worked in retail for over 20 years i really appreciate a store that is very welcoming and fosters a sense of community. I came in and needed a tire replaced on the fly to go for a ride. Nick was super helpful and knowledgeable. He made great gear suggestions and pointed me in the right direction for trail suggestions. Keep up the great work. Ride on!!!
Rudy Hayden — Google review
The thing I like about here is you can rent the bike before you buy it and they go hand over foot to make sure it rides correctly. I rented both the Hightower and megatower, ultimately decided on purchasing the megatower. Mike was super helpful in answering my random questions throughout the weeks I was making up my mind. Seems like they have a great staff. Will only buy from here from here on out!
Clint Emery — Google review
Long term review of the Hub. All the staff here are great ambassadors of Brevard and biking/outdoors in general and this review is more about the bike mechanics and sales staff. Two years ago I had never been on a mountain bike but after renting a bike from the Hub I was hooked. I bought my first bike there and Rusti was there when I picked it up and he set up me up with training advice and overall newbie tips and he has been my go to guy ever since. The attitude with the mechanics is how can I get you back on the trails and give you the best advice. They never have that stuck up attitude I have seen in many other bike shops. Over the last two years I have had a friend join me in Mountain biking with his rental and then purchase and he was also amazed with the service and can do attitude. I have brought some different (Priority 600) non mountain bikes in for service and no matter how busy they are they take the time to figure out what needs to be done and fast. With out a great bike shop like the Hub I most likely would have never continued in the sport. I just purchased my first full suspension from Bill, Rusti and Michael (who set me up at pick up) and once again it was a great experience. Hats off to the owners and management of this great Brevard spot.
Mark — Google review
Great spot for post run/ride beer. Just outside The Forest entrance (276 near Brevard-Pisgah National Forest) 🏔️ 🌳 🏃🏽‍♂️ 🚴🏼
George Linney III — Google review
4.7
(581)
4.5
(923)
Waterfall
Nature & Parks
Geologic Formations
Sliding Rock is a natural water slide located in the Pisgah National Forest, offering a unique and refreshing experience for visitors. The 60-ft.-long rock creates a low waterfall that leads into an eight-foot-deep pool, providing a fun and cool escape from the summer heat. While it can get crowded, there are plenty of spots to relax on the rocks and watch others enjoy the slide. The area offers ample parking and attentive staff, including on-site guards for safety.
I've been on countless trips through the pisgah national forest throughout my life and I always set aside time to visit here for a bit of fun on the river
Joe Simpson — Google review
Great fun for all ages, depending on the time of the year/day of the week it can be busy but there is much more to explore hiking and enjoying the park. Not handicap friendly or for those with severe trouble walking.
LOE_FREY — Google review
The water was cold but the waterfall was fun to slide down! (We went out of season, so it wasn't crowded)
Jordan H — Google review
A very nice recreation area. Ample parking spot. Staffs were nice and attentive , on location guards are available , there is a decent crowd / queue for water slide. I’d you have small kid who is a beginner in swimming , please take a wearable float or floating jacket is recommend. Our party enjoyed a lot , this slide is for everyone and I’d you followed posted recommended position (seating ) then you can enjoy without fear. This natural slide is one of the best we ever enjoyed. I definetly recommend this attraction . There will be crowd on weekends , for each round expected 15 mins waiting time but you will not feel bored since you will be watching others slide and it is fun to watch. Your party members can wait on the deck or take a picture or video of you sliding.
Prabha Shankar — Google review
Cool spot to check out if you’re in the area and it’s an easy walk. Not crowded during fall, but I can imagine it’s full of people sliding down it during the warmer months. Saw 2 people do it today, so if you’re good with it being 50F outside plus the cold water, go for it!
Tracey Pearson — Google review
At least once a year I drive up to North Carolina (specifically the Brevard area) and sliding rock is always on my visit list The view, the sound of the water flowing; it’s just all so beautiful and perfect ❤️
Ashley Naquin — Google review
awesome, awesome, and awesome. i went here off season, when no one was available to swim, that's why the photo is very empty but wow!
keira! — Google review
The flow was so strong because of the rain from last night, that sliding could be dangerous and there were no life guards as well.
Shalin Rathi — Google review
10/10!! it was so fun and exciting!! the water was really cold, but besides that, I had a lot of fun! definitely would go back
Vanna C — Google review
Beautiful, I came in the winter and did not actually slide on it so I have no experience there. Short walk to the waterfall, easy, quaint and picturesque.
Robin Mahan — Google review
DO IT. WE went super early during the week, no lifeguard present, only one other family there. The water was freezing cold. Great once in a lifetime experience.
Victoria Robbins — Google review
Loved the slide but warning the water is super cold! We got there around 11:30am and it started to get very busy so I recommend going earlier to beat the crowds. Bring a life jacket for the little ones and swim shoes for all
Alissa Cole — Google review
Very nice place to visit. There is a big rock on which you can slide. There are life guards on duty until 6:00 PM. After 6:00 PM you can slide but on your own risk. There is entry fees $5 per person. Here if you are lucky you might get parking space since it has small parking area. Other wise you can park near by. This place has restrooms and changing rooms too. Staff are really nice and very kind. You will love this place and can enjoy with your family.
Andy D — Google review
Really cool experience. Know the line will be horribly long to wait to slide down. Water is freezing but worth the shock. They do not offer military admissions even though they are part of the national parks.
s a — Google review
This is a great place to bring the kids and have some fun in nature! The water is cold but it’s what makes it so great! They do have lifeguards during the day. It’s 5$ a person to go into the parking lot. Usually on busy days they have law enforcement there as well. No picnicking I guess bears.
John Mullis — Google review
Made a stop at Sliding Rock as a part of our girls day adventure. Went on a Friday in August; it was about 100 degrees out, so while the water was super cold it wasn't too bad! Waited in line maybe 10 minutes each time to get to the top of the rock and slide down. Spent about an hour sliding down the rock. Definitely recommend some type of water shoes! No picnicing allowed so we went down the road to Looking Glass Waterfall to sit and each lunch with a view!
Kim Herrera — Google review
It was beautiful. They do charge $5 per person. The drop is about 10 feet deep. Not a really big area for swimming just the bottom of the slide. But other then that the kids enjoyed it.
Rosie Martinez — Google review
North Carolina 28768, USASliding Rock reservations
4.8
(3531)
4.5
(914)
Hiking area
Nature & Parks
Waterfalls
Photo-ready waterfall (named for a smooth rock that freezes) with a plunge pool & quick road access.
This waterfall can be seen from the road and is a short walk from the car and down the staircase, onto the river to be next to the waterfall. The rocks are slippery and the water is ice cold. There is also a mist that comes off the waterfall, which feels great when it’s warm out, bur I could imagine not so much when it’s cold. Overall this waterfall is beautiful! So many great photo opportunities and very peaceful if you want to hangout and enjoy it!
stephanie rogers — Google review
Absolutely beautiful, easy hike down actual stairs and then over a few rocks to get to the falls. Was very crowded on a summer Saturday but a short hike up the stream you'll find peace and quiet. You can swim right in pool of water below the falls and even be under it if you can stand all that water! Parking was the worst part, we had to park on side of the road about half mile away but was worth the trip!
Misty Swearengin — Google review
The waterfalls are beautiful and right next to the road. Due to easy accessibility, it can get really crowded. Good place to cool down on a hot day, go for a dip, sit under the mist or watch from a distance. There is parking along the road and be careful after you park and walk along the road. One has to walk down the stairs to get to the bottom of the falls. The view even from the road is nice. There are a few benches, not a lot. Wish there were more facilities and space for people to enjoy a picnic here.
M B — Google review
If you can avoid going on the weekends, TRY TO, because it is insanely packed. However, when it's not busy its so beautiful and so serene and so peaceful. You can walk through the little river pretty far and find tons of flat rocks to skip, lots of crystals, especially quartz and calcite. If you love the water and outdoors, this is a must visit!
Skyelahhh — Google review
Embarking on a rainy weekend hike to Looking Glass Falls provided a unique and enchanting experience. The trail, approximately 0.3 miles round trip, offers easy access for all skill levels, making it suitable for a relaxed outing. The rain added a refreshing touch, enhancing the vibrant colors of the surrounding foliage. Despite the weather, the 60-foot waterfall showcased its beauty, creating a mesmerizing scene with water cascading down the rocky face. The trail's well-maintained path and stairs allowed for a safe approach, even in wet conditions. The mist from the falls created an ethereal atmosphere, adding to the allure of the journey. Visiting Looking Glass Falls on a rainy weekend unveiled a different perspective, emphasizing the resilience and beauty of nature even in less-than-ideal weather. It's a short yet captivating hike, perfect for those seeking a quick escape into the natural wonders of North Carolina.
Harsh Patel — Google review
MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE PLACE . I took my daughter here for her birthday last year & we had a blast. We got here a bit late so it was getting dark but the experience was still the same nonetheless. It isn’t trashy, the patrons are polite + It is very easy to get super close to the falls. The experience here is magical each time, with Covid going on & all the craziness in the world, its nice to deactivate the phone while enjoying mother nature. So peaceful, aesthetically pleasing + serene. Will be back per usual .
Paris LaPetite — Google review
Beautiful and family friendly! We took our 3 boys (13, 3, 6 months) and had a great time! The 3 year old was able to walk down and up to the water below. There is a viewing spot above that is handicap accessible but there are stairs and rocks to navigate if you want to touch water. My boys enjoyed claiming on the rocks and exploring. The 3 year old was the only one crazy enough to put more than toes in the water (it was cold!). We were there around lunch time on a Wednesday in mid-June and it was pretty crowded but we could still explore and get pictures. Parking was all along the road at and before the falls. If you wait to park until you are right at the falls, you may have to go down and turn around (there are a couple of turn offs ahead).
Kylie — Google review
This is a very accessible waterfall on the side of the state park road. Park on the right hand side leading up to the falls as soon as you see a spot. It’s about 50 stairs down to the base of the river. There are some rocks and the falls are about 100’ away. The falls themselves are beautiful and probably about 100’ tall and 30’ wide. They are spectacular and you can wade in the river before the falls and below as well.
G User — Google review
Spent a couple of hours at looking glass falls Sunday morning for an engagement photoshoot (I took the photos). I had never been so I wasn’t totally sure what to expect. It stayed pretty quiet until about 10AM. At that point it got a tad crowded and parking became a little more sparse. So definitely come as early as possible if you can! Overall I can’t recommend this spot enough- for photos or just to admire. It’s basically right off the road. To get even closer or to access the swimming hole / creek you just have to go down a flight of stairs. Be prepared to be blown away!
Katie Mae Williams — Google review
The waterfall was truly breathtaking! We were driving to Moore Cove and stopped on the way. There was parking on the side of the road and stairs to get down to the falls - it was very easy to access. I felt completely awestruck by it, stunning!
Emily Fraser — Google review
Wow!!!!!! Gorgeous waterfall!!! You can drive right up to the steps and walk down, there are many surrounding areas to hike too. We came March 2020 so it was a little chilly for swimming but what a wonderful place this would be in warmer months to cool off. We had lunch on a bench with our family while watching the falls. It gets pretty busy off and on but when you see how magnificent it is you’ll understand why. Short drive into the park and so worth it.
Katherine Suhrheinrich — Google review
These water falls are proof there is a God that creates such breath taking & beautiful water falls! A photo is worth a thousand words right! See for yourself! So many people enjoying the beauty! It’s a short walk down the steps, but the photos are best from the overlook you walk few steps from your cars.
Donna Colson — Google review
Looking Glass Falls is beautiful. There is a pretty decent amount of parking nearby. Once parked, it's a short walk to the overlook. There are also steps leading down to the bottom of the falls and an area to walk around there too. If you're nearby, it's definitely worth the time to stop by.
Jon Monahan — Google review
Beautiful view. Parking can be a little tricky on busy weekends as it is limited and on the side of the road. You may have to walk in gravel on the sloping hill to avoid being on the road. Nice overlook where you can take pictures. There are stairs you can take down to a middle landing for additional pictures, and you can also walk all the way down the steps to the base of the falls. The walk back up looks intimidating and can be difficult for some due to the steepness and height the stairs go up. Many people wear water shoes and walk across the rocks to get in the falls and creek flowing from it. It is at your own risk and can be very slippery, so be careful. There are one or two benches for seating on the landing and the bottom area, but on busy days, don't expect anywhere to sit.
Beth Everhart — Google review
Looking Glass Falls was an incredibly awesome place to stop at earlier today and take in the beauty of as we exited the Blue Ridge Parkway and drove down 276 South. We're here in North Carolina on vacation in the Lake Lure area and decided to spend the day looking at just some of the beautiful nature scenery that this area of North Carolina has to offer. This was the final stop of our planned route and it did not disappoint at all. The weather was great out today, it wasn't particularly crowded here when we stopped, and the mist from the waterfall felt incredible along with the cool breeze. I highly recommend you make the stop to see this waterfall of you're in the area. You will not be disappointed!
Jason Holgate — Google review
Absolutely remarkable place!! One of the best waterfalls to visit while in Asheville because it right off of the road and you do not have to hike to it. There are stairs that you can walk down to get to the waterfall. The waterfall area is so gorgeous and there is water that you can get in under the waterfall. It was very cold. We got there early in the morning and found parking easily but as the day goes on, the parking spaces fill up.
Ashley Hester — Google review
It’s a must see and very easy to do. Parking is all along up and down the road. Nice quick little walk to the falls. Get there early if you don’t want the crowds. It’s not very far either after you enter Pisgah. Great for an easy day and good for families. Beautiful set of falls
Jonathan Ellis — Google review
Beautiful falls!! The trail was easy and well maintained, easy parking and plenty of other friendly people were there. Gotta check it out!
Regan Benites — Google review
This is a super accessible easy to visit large waterfall right next to the road. 110 well maintained steps take one to pool at bottom of falls. Nice boulders to climb over. Easy access does make for a hideous number of cars and people
Craig Childress Johnson — Google review
So beautiful but very crowded. I’ve been going here for years but I haven’t been there in almost a decade. Back then we were the only people there. We got to swim in the water and play under the waterfall and it was awesome!! Now parking is a pain and the constant flow of people coming and going was a little overwhelming for such a beautiful and formerly chill place. We still had fun though. We saw a wedding and I’m guessing was a septuagenarian swim from the rocks to the waterfall and back. I took a Timelapse video of all of these things and more.
Haynes Gibbs — Google review
Parking is limited, but the view is beautiful! The steps are a bit steep, but there are rails to hold onto. There are 3 platforms for photo ops, but you have to step off of the concrete onto large rocks to get to the water. I didn't go off the concrete, as I use a cane, & didn't feel comfortable trying to walk on the rocky area.
Trish D — Google review
Great spot to get a waterfall experience without having to hike. Just a couple of flights of stairs are all that separates this roaring falls from the road. After heavy rain, the bottom can be a bit tricky. Also, if it's freezing cold, the mist from the falls will coat the bottom stairs and rocks in a thin sheet of ice. Great spot to play in the water in the summertime. Highly recommend visiting these beautiful falls, especially for limited ability folks.
Hannah Pace — Google review
4.8
(14114)
5.0
(688)
National forest
Nature & Parks
Pisgah National Forest is a vast park with diverse landscapes including forests, waterfalls, peaks and rivers. It offers various outdoor activities like camping, hiking and picnicking. The Art Loeb Trail is just one of the many trails available for day hikes with stunning views. Black Balsam Knob and Tennent Mountain provide an incredibly scenic 5 mile loop with established trails, making it popular among locals for weekend camping trips.
Welcome to ,The Oldest Mountains on Earth, the majesty and beauty of this place is stunning. A trip here is filled with a refreshing of the spirit .Take some food and drink and visit. It will become a regular trip There's so much to see and enjoy. The views and landscape are truly a treasure.
Dennis Conner — Google review
Truly wonderful experience . It’s the most beautiful mountains I’ve visited on the east cost. It has mount Mitchell , the highest mountain peak east of the Mississippi
JOHN NEEK — Google review
The Cradle of Forestry Overlook is just one of the quiet treasures nestled on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Today it was closed for ice and storm damage, but a short walk up from open parking you could still view and enjoy all this. It’s my weekend getaway for a peaceful sunrise, so all y’all steer clear ok? 🙃
Kevin Smith — Google review
My son and I went hiking through the Pisgah Forest (August 2022) starting out on the North Slope trail - connecting to Art Loeb to get to the top of the mountain. We were chased back down by thunder and lightning but for what we did see it was absolutely gorgeous. Beautiful little bridges placed here and there to help hikers over steeper areas with running water. Also plenty of fallen logs over the trail with the tops carefully cut away and scored to ensure hiking boots don’t slip when stepping over. The trails were so well maintained that at one point I even told my son while hiking that - I hope I’m not jinxing it but - I didn’t see one single piece of litter the entire hike and we were out there for three hours.
Cliff & Katie Collins — Google review
It took me about 4 hours to drive there from Raleigh then another 25 minutes on the trail towards Linville Falls off grid campsites. There are several campsites with amazing views but you'll need four-wheel drive and something with good ground clearance. There are many parts of the road that have been washed away by rain and have very deep ruts.
Phong Nguyen — Google review
Beautiful rest stop on our cross country trip! It was refreshing and restful and we enjoyed every moment.
Francis Tuck — Google review
Love Pisgah! So many waterfalls and hiking trails to be explored. The drive to pisgah from TN is also quite serene, passing Cherokee and nantahala national forests on the way. We saw the looking glass and Moore cove falls. They were stunning.
Hridya Rao — Google review
It was a great place we talk to really friendly guy his uncle owned the property that we camped at it was quite all you could here was the river and a few wild animals running around at night.
Lou Rust — Google review
Depends on what you are looking for they have short hikes, long hikes, loops, out and back, scenery, rivers, and waterfalls. Oh my. Now get out there and soak in the quiet beauty while leaving your social media, yes disconnect, for a while.
Timothy Cronin — Google review
We boondocked at the Sunburst campground for 2 weeks. We enjoyed the roads, perfect for motorcycle riding. We found many beautiful falls and caught several delicious trout. The area is very clean and the spring water fountain in the picnic area is the best water. We hope to make it back there eventually. Important note, the ants are very sneaky be prepared. There are Porta potties in various places.
Debra Young — Google review
Pisgah National Forest is a true gem of the Southeastern United States. Covering over 500,000 acres in western North Carolina, it offers a diverse and enchanting natural experience. The forest is known for its stunning waterfalls, including Looking Glass Falls and Sliding Rock, which provide excellent opportunities for swimming and photography. One of the highlights of Pisgah National Forest is the Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic highway that traverses the forest and offers breathtaking vistas of the Appalachian Mountains. Hiking enthusiasts will find an extensive network of trails, such as the popular Linville Falls Trail and Mount Mitchell Trail, leading to the highest peak in the Eastern United States. Camping is a popular activity in Pisgah, with numerous campgrounds and backcountry options available. The forest is also a prime location for mountain biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or a casual nature lover, Pisgah National Forest provides an unforgettable natural playground. One of the few drawbacks is that certain areas can get crowded, particularly during peak seasons, so plan your visit accordingly. Overall, Pisgah National Forest is a paradise for those seeking a connection with the great outdoors, offering diverse recreational opportunities amid some of the most picturesque landscapes in the region.
Doughlas Setzer — Google review
Beautiful park. We had a limited time to visit but really enjoyed the falls and the park we visited. Will return!
Dustin Wallace — Google review
Such an amazing area to explore. The waterfalls are spectacular and close enough to see several in one day! Highly recommend!
Stephanie Krauss — Google review
Loved the ride! Forest is huge. Me and my friend also stopped at a restaurant nearby. Was lovely!
FRANCESCA PIERRE — Google review
We were headed back from Myrtle Beach to the Midwest and spent a couple nights in Ashville. We decided to take the blue ridge west of Ashville in October knowing we'd run into s lot of traffic but see some nice views. We were wrong on both accounts. The traffic was manageable and flowing, with plenty of spots to pull off. The views were not nice, they were amazing as the colors were close to peak at the upper elevations. Highly recommended and worth your time.
Matthew Pleus — Google review
Have lived in wnc for 24 years and I promise anywhere you go will be a beautiful sight and beyond peaceful
Mrpickle95 — Google review
Someone is clearcutting 600 acres just off 80 near Busick. Should be a crime! Where is Serge A Storms when u need him? RIP TD
Thomas Conely — Google review
It's a beautiful area. It is a great place to sit and watch the sunset. This time of the year, it is very busy with little to no parking.
Crystal Huneycutt — Google review
4.8
(924)
4.5
(273)
Museum
Nature & Parks
Visitor center & hands-on heritage museum with woodland hiking trails & early-1900s buildings.
It was National Public Lands Day, so Cradle of Forestry was completely free. They have a wonderful & educational indoor exhibit. There are also 3 walking trails (developed) that are 1 - 1.3 miles long. The one path/trail even had an audio tour you could download before hand. My family had a great time. It was a perfect little field trip cause we were able to see everything in a single day. Excellent field trip for Homeschoolers & boys & girls needing badges for Scouts or TrailLife!!!
Tristan Divine — Google review
The Cradle of Forestry is a beautiful destination to visit with your family. The staff was very friendly and welcoming. The main building had a nice little museum that told about the history of forestry, and it also had a nice little area with replicas of animals in the area. My toddler loved the underground crawl-through area with underground animals on display. We only had time to walk on the “Forest Festival Trail”, but it was great! There was a train at the halfway-point of the 1.3 mile loop that we were able to explore and ring the bell on. There was also a trout pond and a few other old forestry items. It was a very beautiful and peaceful walk.
David Roark — Google review
This place is spectacular! I've lived here for years and this was my first time up there but surely not my last! There was also a waterfall and trail on the way there. I will be doing that when it is warmer. Wow! Nature's beauty abounds! Check it out!!!!
Cynthia Wilcox — Google review
Beautiful space. Most polite staff. Well executed exhibits. We showed up late and were given passes for the next day. The trails around and between educational exhibits were all paved and shaded. The building restoration was meticulous, and drew in the imagination. The Cafe was not open when we were there. Looking glass falls was breathtaking.
Robbie D — Google review
Beautiful area to take short hikes and learn the history of the area! Buy your $6 ticket at the gift shop and enjoy everything available including a cafe on site. Wonderful people all around! Would definitely recommend!
Brian King — Google review
We love this place. It is for sure a place we want to go back to. It was only $6 per person. We only did 1 of their 3 trails. Next time we will make sure we have time to do all 3. The people here were so friendly.
Smoky Mountains Handmade Creations — Google review
Such a beautiful place to visit! Staff were super friendly & helpful, bathrooms were very clean and trails were peaceful. My daughter & I had a wonderful time & she said it was her new favorite place!
Gina Forest — Google review
Superb place to visit with children. Clean, well maintained, and super friendly staff. Great trails and activities for the kids - ours loved it. Interesting content for adults. I would highly recommend stopping here. We got in at 10:15 AM on a Sunday and were the very first visitors. Not crowded at all for the 3 hours we spent here.
David Vandewalle — Google review
AMAZING!! The staff were so friendly and helpful. Two of the three main trails, although a lot uphill, were easily wheelchair accessible and my daughter loved them. The historic buildings and railroad were cool as well, definitely worth the walk!
Melissa Reich — Google review
This place is more than five-star! It rained the night before and I wanted to walk on a paved trail. Cradle exceeded my expectations! The staff was super professional and friendly. In the visitor center they play a 15-minute video about the place. The entrance charge is $6 per person - well worth it! There is an exhibit hall in the visitor center - cute exhibit! There are two trails and we walked about. The trails are well kept and very clean. All the buildings are well kept and show us rich history of those great men who started the US forest history. The bathrooms are very clean too! I appreciate the wonderful work they have provided!
?? in Chicago — Google review
Great, friendly, helpful staff and volunteers. Museum, paved walking trails, logging train engine and car plus historic buildings. Check out their website for upcoming events. Lots happening there! Discount entrance fee with America the Beautiful (national park annual or senior pass). Some events require pre ordered tickets. Regular entrance can be purchased when you arrive.
Vickie Steele — Google review
We really enjoyed visiting. Very easy walking as all trails are paved. The approx. 1.3 mile forest loop trail was particularly nice because of the many different birds singing in the woods. There are some large stands of mountain laurel and rodedendrum and a scattering of flaming azaleas and truly spectacular trees. If you like history, the old logging railroad tracks and railroad hardware and forestry buildings from the 1800s are also well worth visiting. Very knowledgeable staff in the visitor center and also the gents conducting restoration work on the railroad log cars.
Phil R — Google review
We were on vacation to Asheville. Our good time was interrupted when my boyfriend was unable to find his wallet. We had the idea that the misplacement occurred at the Cradle of Forestry. We returned there, and we were unable to find his wallet, but what we really found was a group of employees/volunteers that traced every inch of the parking lot looking for his wallet. They showed up very supportive and empathetic. We are still thankful for what they did.
Damaris Perez — Google review
This is a hidden gem of a place. Thoroughly impressed with the information, staff and preservation of history. Definitely recommend stopping in for a visit. Plan a hour minimum to take it all in including the thirty minute film that gives you a brief history of the area. Will be back for sure!
LukeinTennessee — Google review
This is a beautiful park facility on the Blue Ridge Parkway about 25 miles west of Asheville, NC. There is a one and half mile loop paved walkway showing the schoolhouse for forestry students, general store , and living accommodations in the woods. In the park building you will find exhibits, history of school established in 1898, a movie, gift shop and restrooms. There is plenty of parking. Park personnel are friendly and knowledgeable of the history of the school. Don't miss it!
Jodie Klugel — Google review
Wonderful museum with welcoming staff and beautiful, easy trails. We very much enjoyed a relaxing visit just off the Parkway.
Heather — Google review
This was so fascinating and a great place for families. Most of the exhibits inside were interactive. It was so interesting to see where forestry was started. One note... adult entrance fee is $12, but they give a discount for using your valid. annual pass.
Julie Bilyeu — Google review
Awesome place to visit!!! It is very interesting to learn how the first sustainable forest were done!!! I have always enjoyed my visits!!! The people are super friendly as well!!! The scenery is gorgeous!!! Just check the weather forecast before you go because it does rain a lot here!!! Thanks for the great visit!!!
Andrew George — Google review
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