Hike to the summit of one of western North Carolina’s most iconic peaks, Mount Pisgah. The Mount Pisgah Trail off the Blue Ridge Parkway takes you up through lush forest with incredible views along the way. At the top stands a transmission tower with a deck to walk on.
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 4.5 mile (out-and-back trail).
- Elevation Gain: ~1,033 ft
- Cost: Free!
How to Get to the Mt Pisgah Trailhead
Mount Pisgah is located in the Pisgah National Forest, around 30 miles southwest of Asheville, North Carolina. If you’re coming from Asheville, take the Blue Ridge Parkway southbound. The drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway itself is incredibly scenic and offers breathtaking views. Drive for approximately 26 miles until you reach Milepost 408.6.
Parking
The Mount Pisgah Trailhead has a designated parking area for cars. Once you arrive at the trailhead, you should find parking spaces available for visitors. During peak times or weekends, the parking area might get crowded, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot.
Hiking Mount Pisgah Trail to the Summit
There are several points along the trail where you can pause and look through openings in the forest to enjoy the vistas. Take your time to savor the panoramic views from the top.
On a clear day, you’ll have a remarkable view of the landscape stretching as far as the eye can see. While on a slightly foggy or cloudy day, the views will have a unique beauty as the clouds roll over and through the mountains. When it’s raining or has been drizzling, your views will be limited, but it’s still an enjoyable, quiet hike through the forest!
How long of a hike is Mt Pisgah?
The trail starts from the parking area and is a moderately challenging hike that leads to the summit of Mount Pisgah. The trail is around 2.25 miles long (one-way) and offers stunning views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains and the Pisgah National Forest.
Is Mt Pisgah a hard hike?
Depending on your fitness level and hiking experience, hiking Mt Pisgah can be considered as a moderate to hard hike. Its length, elevation gain, altitude, terrain and variable weather contribute to how hard it can feel on any given day.
This is a summit trail – there is notable elevation gain. You’ll need to ascend a significant portion of the mountain, so be prepared for uphill sections.
The trail consists of a mix of rocky and rooty sections. Proper hiking footwear and good balance are essential for navigating these terrains safely. A durable, sturdy, and comfortable hiking boot like the Merrell Moab 2 is a wise choice to lace up in for this hike.
Also, the weather can be unpredictable in mountainous areas. Western North Carolina gets a lot of rain and the Blue Ridge Mountains often are steeped in fog and clouds. Be prepared for changes in conditions and dress in layers accordingly.
Campground and Amenities Nearby
There are two options for lodging near the trailhead to Mount Pisgah; the campground or the inn.
The Mount Pisgah Campground is situated at an elevation of approximately 4,980 st within the Pisgah National Forest. This is a great, economical way to experience the forest’s beauty and tranquility. There are tent and RV sites (with some electric hookups), picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms with showers, and potable water.
The campground typically operates from late spring to early fall. Specific opening and closing dates may vary depending on weather conditions and maintenance schedules. It’s important to check with the U.S. Forest Service or the National Park Service for the most up-to-date information on campground availability and reservations.
Besides camping, the Pisgah Inn is a historic inn with a restaurant and gift shop that was originally built in the 1960s. This retreat is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway near the summit of Mount Pisgah. It is situated at an elevation of approximately 5,000 feet, offering guests views of the surrounding mountains of the Pisgah National Forest.
Important Tips
- Check the weather forecast before starting your hike and be prepared for changing conditions. Note that the forecast is rarely accurate up in the high mountains and there is not great (if any) cell service.
- Carry enough water, electrolytes, and snacks to stay hydrated and energized throughout the hike.
- Wear layers of clothing to adjust to temperature changes during the hike. A raincoat is a must!
- Start early, especially if you want to avoid crowds and have ample time to explore.
- Respect the natural environment and follow Leave No Trace principles.
