Mount Pisgah Trail

Mount Pisgah rises prominently above Asheville, its distinctive profile topped by a transmission tower visible for miles in every direction. The summit trail climbs through northern hardwood and spruce-fir forest, emerging at rocky outcrops with spectacular views of the French Broad River valley, Cold Mountain, and the surrounding peaks. The mountain’s prominence in the landscape has made it a landmark since the earliest human inhabitants, and George Vanderbilt’s estate included these slopes before becoming part of Pisgah National Forest. The observation deck provides 360-degree views, with interpretation of the visible peaks and valleys. The steepness of the final approach rewards hikers with a genuine sense of accomplishment.