OUTDOOR
ADVENTURE
Outdoor Activities
In Brevard and Transylvania County, NC
In our mountain oasis, the allure of the great outdoors is irresistible. From heart-pounding adventures to serene moments surrounded by nature, our 100,000 acres of pristine forests offer something for everyone. It should come as no surprise that in the Land of Waterfalls, being outdoors is more than a pastime — it’s a lifestyle. With hundreds of miles of singletrack, hiking trails, and trout streams there’s no shortage of places to explore. So grab your gear and hit the trails. We’ll see you out there.
For information on the status of the trails in our forests and parks, click here.
The Ultimate Basecamp for Adventure
350+
miles of singletrack
Largest Rock
monolith in the east
421
miles of
fishable trout streams
110,000+
acres of public lands
Timing Your Trip
FALL
Peak Leaf Season, NC
There’s no better place to experience fall color than right here in Transylvania County. Beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow color the landscape, making it the perfect backdrop for every activity from paddling to hiking.
WINTER
Escape the Crowds
If you want to have the trails and waterfalls to yourself, visit in the winter. With fewer visitors, you can enjoy the peace of nature. For road cycling, winter offers less traffic and great cycling opportunities. Plus, the season brings unique holiday adventures, with festive events and seasonal activities throughout the area.
SPRING
Wildflowers Galore
If you love to explore nature surrounded by gorgeous floral blooms, spring is the best time to plan your trip. Enjoy warmer temperatures with fewer crowds. Spring is also the premiere time for fly fishing.
SUMMER
Get On the Water
If you’re looking to enjoy swimming holes, lakes, and rivers, come in the summer. Be prepared for bigger crowds, but there’s no better time to beat the heat on our waterways.
Interactive Map & Guide
Transylvania County’s Top Waterfalls
Ready to explore our stunning waterfalls? Our easy-to-use waterfall map is here to guide you to the best spots. Whether you’re up for a hike or just want to soak in the beauty, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to chase some waterfalls!
The Best Outdoor Activities in Brevard
What are the best hiking trails near Brevard, NC?
There are hundreds of miles of trails in and around Transylvania County, so narrowing the list down isn’t easy! For a less difficult hike, check out Hooker Falls, Moore Cove Falls, or the Andy Cove Trail. If you’re up for more of a challenge, we love the John Rock Trail, Rainbow Falls, Looking Glass Mountain, and Art Loeb Trail. But the list doesn’t stop there. Check out a few more of our favorite hiking trails in the area.
Where can I see waterfalls in Brevard, NC?
In short, everywhere. Seriously— we have 250 and there are even waterfalls you can see from your car! Looking Glass Falls is a roadside wonder that you can see in Pisgah National Forest along Hwy 276, a perfect photo-opp for a postcard. Sliding Rock Falls is nature’s waterslide and a fun adventure for the whole family. Plus, DuPont State Recreational Forest has some of the most popular waterfalls in the area, including Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, and High Falls (which make for a fun and scenic hiking loop). Check out our interactive waterfall map for a list of our favorite cascades.
Can you swim in the waterfalls in Brevard, NC?
There are several natural swimming holes in Transylvania County, and swimming is permitted in the pools at the base of some waterfalls, including Hooker Falls and Courthouse Falls. We urge visitors to Be Waterfall Wise when enjoying the area’s natural wonders and use caution around potential dangers such as slippery rocks, strong currents, and objects under the water. Admire the beauty, but be aware of the danger.
Is Pisgah National Forest open year-round?
Yes! Pisgah National Forest is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year. That also includes the hundreds of waterfalls in the forest, hiking trails, and scenic vistas. There’s something special to see in each season.
There are no entry fees or tickets to get into Pisgah National Forest, but if you plan on riding down Sliding Rock Falls, be prepared for a $5 per person fee. If you’re camping, sites at Davidson River Campground are available by reservation, with prices per night varying depending on the type of site.
The Pisgah National Forest is also the gateway to the Blue Ridge Parkway from Brevard. The Parkway is closed seasonally, especially in the winter months, so view the National Park Service’s closure map before planning your trip.
What outdoor activities are available in Brevard, NC?
We can’t overstate the number of outdoor recreation opportunities in Brevard and Transylvania County. There are many! You can hike, mountain bike, cycle, swim, paddle, rock climb, ride horses, fly fish, golf, play tennis, and hop in the pool — just to name a few. Many visitors return year after year to enjoy the outdoor beauty afforded by our area. Be respectful of trail usage rules and respect the principles of Leave No Trace and Leave It Better than you found it.
Leave It Better
While you’re taking a hike, ride, or climb in our public lands or waterways, do your part to Leave It Better. Be on the lookout for outdoor events that give back to the land such as Pisgah Project Day and the annual River Clean-Up to enhance your impact.
Get Inspired
Dive into our blogs for inspiring stories, helpful tips, and ideas to enhance your visit.
Be Prepared
Dive into our resources for safe and mindful exploration of our beloved mountain oasis.