Your Guide to Accessible Travel in Transylvania County
Everyone is invited to experience the incredible natural beauty, vibrant businesses, and rich artistry that make Brevard and Transylvania County so special. True hospitality means ensuring that all visitors, regardless of ability, can explore and enjoy this remarkable place. That’s why we’re committed to fostering inclusive experiences, removing barriers, and continually improving accessibility. While there’s always more work to be done, we remain dedicated to making Brevard a welcoming destination for all—because adventure should have no limits.
No one understands accessibility better than people with disabilities and their loved ones. If you have any feedback about our recommendations or suggestions for improvements, please reach out at the bottom of this page—we’d love to hear from you.
Waterfalls
Trails & Attractions
Community Parks
Fishing & Recreation
Adaptive Guides & Equipment
Accessible Lodging
Waterfalls
Looking Glass Falls
One of the most photographed waterfalls in the country, picturesque Looking Glass Falls is situated just off US 276 in Pisgah National Forest. There is limited parking along a strip leading up to the falls, but the area experiences fairly rapid turnover. While there is no designated accessible parking, there are curb ramps that make it easy for wheelchairs to reach an excellent viewing platform adjacent to the falls.
Whitewater Falls
At 411 feet, Whitewater Falls is the tallest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains and one of the most accessible. There are two designated accessible spaces in the paved parking lot at the south end of the trail. Both are van-accessible with striped access aisles. The trail surface is paved asphalt and smooth. It is wheelchair-friendly to the first observation deck, which affords a nice, long-range view of this spectacular waterfall.
Sliding Rock
Welcome to Mother Nature’s very own Slip n’ Slide. The Sliding Rock Recreation Area includes four designated spaces that are van-accessible with striped access aisles and curb ramps. A paved trail surface takes you to the waterfall viewing area adjacent to Sliding Rock and provides a perfect perch from which to enjoy watching children and adults make the exciting 60-foot journey down the rock to the chilly pool at the base. There is a $5 per person fee to enter this area.
Connestee Falls/Batson Creek Falls
Situated on US 276 South, this pretty, 85-foot waterfall is accessible via a 50-yard boardwalk that leads to a nice overlook. From here, you can also catch a glimpse of Batson Creek Falls which joins with Connestee to form “The Silver Slip.”
Toxaway Falls
Toxaway Falls offers a stunning roadside view right from US 64, making it an easily accessible stop for those exploring the area. While there are no designated parking spaces, visitors can enjoy the view while eating at Los Vaqueros Mexican Restaurant. The falls can be admired without the need for hiking, providing a convenient and scenic experience for all.
DuPont State Recreational Forest – High Falls
The only Recreational State Forest in NC, DuPont welcomes any and all outdoor enthusiasts. The Aleen Steinberg Visitor Center has trail maps, directions to popular features, and information on off-forest attractions. Accessible restrooms can be found at the Visitor Center as well as the Hooker Falls and Guion Farms access areas respectively. DuPont has a Limited Mobility Permit system that allows visitors to drive their private vehicles from the Visitor Center into the Covered Bridge and High Falls Shelter.
Trails & Attractions
Cradle of Forestry
This 6,500-acre historic site is a hidden treasure. It features the Forest Discovery Center with fascinating interpretive exhibits on the history of the modern forestry movement, along with engaging films and a first-rate gift shop. Best of all, there are 3.8 miles of wheelchair-friendly trails that lead to multiple historic buildings dating from the late 1800’s, a 1915 Climax logging locomotive, and several informational kiosks. There is a convenient roundabout for drop-offs, and accessible parking spaces.
Gorges State Park Visitor Center
This 8,600 sq. ft. facility serves as a wonderful introduction to the Jocassee Gorges with a large hands-on education area with museum-quality exhibits on geology, wildlife, and history. Relax in the rustic lounge with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. There is a scenic loop road around the park that includes a wheelchair-friendly overlook that takes in views across Jocassee Gorges. You’ll also find several accessible picnic spots and, opening in the spring of 2022, a new campground that features an accessible campsite, cabin, and RV site.
Estatoe Trail Hike/Bike Path
This six-mile paved trail has several access points, most notably the Brevard Depot Park at 390 Railroad Avenue. It offers convenient access to all 5 of our breweries and Downtown Brevard. The most scenic part of the trail extends from the entrance to Pisgah National Forest to the Davidson River Campground and follows the beautiful Davidson River. This one-mile section of the trail is groomed gravel and is best for motorized wheelchairs. Accessible parking can be found at the Lowes Home Improvement parking lot.
Looking Glass Rock Overlook
At Milepost 417 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, visitors can see one of the most photographed and iconic features that Transylvania County has to offer. While the trail to access Looking Glass Rock is a steep 2.75-mile trip full of switchbacks, motorists can see the equally impressive views of the rock itself from the Looking Glass Rock Overlook.
Sassafras Mountain
The new observation tower on Sassafras Mountain offers panoramic views of three states – North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. And thanks to its mobility-impaired trail and ramp, all visitors can drink in its vistas. Interestingly, the circular viewing platform (which has a compass rose etched in its surface) is bisected by the state line separating North and South Carolina.
Transylvania County Library Storywalks (Multiple Locations)
The Transylvania County Library also has 3 off-site StoryWalk paths for visitors to enjoy reading and walking together in the outdoors. They can be found along level paths at Rosman Community Park, along the Estatoe Trail (multi-use greenway path) behind Transylvania County Parks and Recreation, and at Gorges State Park along the Bearwallow Valley Trail. The Estatoe Trail is the most accessible location.
Transylvania County Library
A hub of community events, the Transylvania County Library offers programs for residents and visitors of all ages and abilities. Visitors can attend seasonal music concerts in the Amphitheater, participate in movement programs like Yoga and Tai Chi, check out the All Things Appalachia series, and much more. The Library has accessible parking as well as building access.
Community Parks
Depot Railroad Avenue Park
Located along the Estatoe Trail system, this facility has public restrooms, a covered pavilion, and accessible parking. A short 0.05 mile trip will take you passed the native plant garden to King Creek. Continue an additional 0.2 of a mile along Railroad Ave to access shops, dining, and music in the Lumberyard District. The Depot also features a drop-off area for guests with limited mobility, but visitors in wheelchairs may need assistance accessing the restrooms as the doors are not automatic.
Silvermont Mansion & Park
Silvermont Park is an 8-acre county park in downtown Brevard that is home to the Silvermont Mansion, a 33-room colonial revival mansion as well as walking paths, tennis and basketball courts, a playground, and a picnic shelter. The Park is open from dawn to dusk. There is a 0.4-mile paved trail that winds past native plant gardens and is mostly flat with a few short sections that are moderately steep (5%-8%). There are multiple accessible picnic areas and a wheelchair-accessible swing in the grass adjacent to the trail. Guests can also visit the Silvermont Opportunity Center to participate in classes for seniors. Follow the signs for staff parking for the accessible parking spaces in the rear of the park.
Silversteen Park
This 1.5 acre park can be found in the Rosenwald Community and features a paved path along Norton Creek, playground, basketball court, and picnic tables. Although there is no accessible parking, the parking lot does have curb cuts and crosswalks to access the park. The Park is adjacent to the newly renovated Mary C. Jenkins Community and Cultural Center which provides enrichment opportunities.
Fishing and Recreation Areas
Sycamore Flats Picnic Area
Enjoy Pisgah National Forest and have lunch along the Davidson River within the Sycamore Flats Picnic Area. The picnic shelter is available for reservations. Visitors can access a fishing pier overlooking the river at the East end of the picnic area. There is also bank access and the site is ADA compliant. Primary species found at this location include Brook Trout, Brown Trout, and Rainbow Trout which are all stocked.
Penrose Fishing Area
Penrose is a Public Fishing Area located on the eastern side of Transylvania County along the French Broad River and has a paved parking space, and an accessible fishing pier. The site also has boat ramp access as well as canoe access. Primary species found at this site include Smallmouth Bass and stocked Muskie. From Brevard head East on Hendersonville Hwy, take a right on Crab Creek Road and then an immediate left onto Old Hendersonville Hwy and then the first right onto Apac Drive.
Coontree Fishing Area
The Coontree fishing area is located along the Davidson River within Pisgah National Forest and features pier and bank access with ADA features. Primary species found at this site include Brown and Rainbow trout. From Brevard, take US 276 North approximately 6 miles and the US Forest Service Coontree Recreation Area parking lot is on the left.
Bobby N. Setzer State Fish Hatchery
Located along the Davidson River, the Fish Hatchery is home to ADA-compliant fishing pier access as well as bank access for anglers. Primary species found at this site include Brown and Rainbow trout.
Davidson River Campground
Located in Pisgah National Forest on US 276, Davidson River Campground is a largely level camping facility with dozens of drive-up sites that are accessible, along with showers and restrooms. Davidson River Campground also offers accessible fishing spots adjacent to the Davidson River, one of the top trout streams in the US.
Adaptive Guides & Equipment
Pura Vida
Interested in outdoor sports such as kayaking, rappelling, rock climbing, and more, but don’t know where to start? Look no further than Pura Vida Adventures offering adaptive trips for every adventurer no matter your level of experience. Trips can also include naturalist hikes and vehicle tours of the Blue Ridge Mountains. They are able to customize any adventure program to meet your needs and are on a journey to make outdoor programming accessible to provide opportunities to “experience the good life.”
Waypoint Adventures
Located in Black Mountain, Waypoint Adventure hosts adaptive programs for hiking, ropes courses, rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, and team building throughout Western North Carolina! Join as an individual or part of a group. You can also check out their fleet of off-road wheelchairs available for rent along with adaptive recreation equipment for your next adventure.
Accessible Lodging in Brevard
Everyone deserves a welcoming and comfortable stay. These accessible accommodations prioritize inclusivity, ensuring all visitors can relax and enjoy their time in Transylvania County. Explore the listings below to find the right fit for your visit.
Accessibility Feedback Form
We value your input! If you have feedback on accessibility, suggestions for improvements, or additional recommendations to enhance inclusivity in Brevard and Transylvania County, please share your thoughts with us. Your insights help us create a more welcoming and enjoyable experience for all visitors.