Brevard Rocks! Big Time Geology in Transylvania County With waterfalls, high peaks, canyons, gorges, and impressive natural rock walls, no matter where you are in Transylvania County, you’re just a stone’s throw away from unforgettable scenery. The area’s unique geology has created a one-of-a-kind landscape, loved by both climbers and hikers, as well as gorgeous views of iconic natural geologic wonders just waiting to be explored. 1 1 LOOKING GLASS ROCK The striking white granite face of this 4,000-foot tall pluton monolith in Pisgah National Forest is one of Transylvania County’s most recognizable landmarks. Named for the way its face looks into the sunlight, Looking Glass Rock is visible from the Blue Ridge Parkway, Black Balsam, and the top of Mt Pisgah. Hikers and climbers eager for a more up close and personal view can access it via a steep and challenging trail (6.4 miles out and back to summit) off the graveled FS 475 just south of Looking Glass Falls on 276. Trailhead parking is .4 miles in on the right. 2 2 DEVIL’S COURTHOUSE The gnarled face and large size of this bare rock profile has inspired folklore for centuries. In Cherokee tales, it is the dwelling place of a giant named Judulla. More recently, tellers of tall tales have speculated that the devil himself made his home at a secret cave within. Whatever the case, it’s a stunning sight from the Blue Ridge Parkway that offers a short, somewhat strenuous hike to a summit with nearly... Read More
Memorable Road Rides: Wheely Fun Transylvania County has earned a worldwide — and well-deserved — reputation for its spectacular mountain biking. Yet the road cycling opportunities here are just as rich, varied and rewarding, whether you’re a beginner to the sport, a dedicated club rider or a training professional. Here are three routes (easy, intermediate and challenging) that provide an excellent introduction to two-wheeled travel in Transylvania County. 1. Easy Name: Walnut Hollow & East Fork River ValleyDistance: 26 milesElevation Gain: 1,542 feetType: Paved RoadStart: Downtown Brevard, Visitors Center Map and Elevation Profile Description: Are you short on time but want to get in a good workout? This popular route fits the bill. Leaving downtown Brevard, enjoy a pleasant six-mile warm up before encountering the legendary climb up Walnut Hollow. But take heart: from the top of this one-mile climb (average 7.6% gradient), it’s an invigorating descent down to the East Fork of the French Broad River and a scenic valley ride to Rosman and back to Brevard. 2. Intermediate Name: Headwaters LoopLevel: Easy-IntermediateDistance: 20.4 milesElevation Gain: 1,815 feetType: RoadStart: Champion Park, Rosman Map and Elevation Profile Description: While short, this route in the western part of Transylvania County possesses all the qualities that make the “Land of Waterfalls” such a special place to tour. You’ll find convenient parking at Champion Park in Rosman where this ride begins. Along the way you’ll pass the headwaters of the French Broad River (3rd oldest in the world), the world-famous Pisgah Astronomical Research... Read More
Take a walk on the wildflower side. Some hiking trails offer big surprises – like hidden waterfalls or dramatic vistas – but some offer smaller, more intimate experiences that can be equally satisfying. Throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains, and specifically in Transylvania County, a wide variety of wildflowers lend vibrant color to our coves and hollows from early spring to late autumn. We talked to two wildflower experts, Rosemarie Shannon Knoll and Marianne Weaver to come up with four outstanding wildflower hikes where you are likely to see some great examples of Mother Nature as landscape artist. Tip: A good wildflower guide is an ideal companion for these walks. There are several excellent guides available, but we’re partial to Rosemarie Shannon Knoll’s superb series, which includes Wildflowers of the Blue Ridge Parkwayand Pisgah National Forest, Wildflower Quick Reference Guideand Wildflowers and Watefalls of DuPont State Recreational Forest. All three titles are available at High Falls Publishing. Art Loeb Trail, Pisgah National Forest DESCRIPTIONAn easy out and back walk of two miles, this spring wildflower walk is close to the entrance of Pisgah National Forest near the Davidson River Campground. The path follows the Art Loeb Trail along the Davidson River. WHAT MAKES IT SPECIALAccording to Rosemarie: “This easy to walk trail is covered with a beautiful carpet of wildflowers in April and May including Trillium, Bloodroot, Toothwort, and a variety of Violets. You will also see Mayapple, Trout Lily, Little Brown Jug, and Foamflower. The Art Loeb Trail connects... Read More
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