Mount Pisgah via the Buck Spring Trail

Mount Pisgah is a staple on the Blue Ridge Parkway, especially in the North Carolina area. Mount Pisgah is part of the original area sold to the Federal Government by the Vanderbelt family. You will be able to see the summit of this 5,742-foot peak from many points in Asheville. There is a large radio tower on the top that is used by WLOS-TV, channel 13. Up, up and away you will go on this steep hike through northern hardwoods and tunnels of rhododendron. You can start this hike from the begining of the parking area. You will see some stairs that are not marked but lead you on the short Buck Springs Trail. Essentially the Buck Springs Trail will take you to the other side of the parking lot and just short of the trailhead to Mount Pisgah. There are opportunities to get on the Shut-in Trail from the Mount Pisgah trailhead. Continue to the left corner of the parking area and you will see a large sign for Pisgah. There are signs at the beginning that detail routes to other sites in the area such as the 3-mile hike to the Frying Pan Tower. The trail becomes more intense as you begin your 700-foot ascent. You will experience rocky and challenging terrain on this trail. You will have a great view of the summit most of your way up. If you hike in the fall, the autumn leaves will surely leave you with a smile. Although you may go on a nice day and not see very many people, crowds are also common. The Mount Pisgah trail is well maintained and checked for problems frequently. The trail is doable in the winter months, although parkway access is limited during those months due to ice. This route is steep and challenging at some points, but the views from the top are well worth the 1.5 miles to the summit. Stop, take a sip of water, and carry on; you will most likely feel a mixture of accomplishment and amazement at the summit of this hike.