Pisgah National Forest in Western North Carolina
The Pisgah National Forest is known for its mile-high peaks, rushing waterfalls, densely forested slopes and spans over 500,000 acres. It includes whitewater rivers, waterfalls, hundreds of miles of trails and is a primarily a hardwood forest.
The Forest contains the first parcel of land purchased under the Weeks Act of 1911, which resulted in the establishment of national forests throughout the eastern United States.
It also has two of the first wilderness areas in the east, as well as the Cradle of Forestry in America historic monument, which protects the first school of forestry in the United States. The Pisgah, Grandfather, and Appalachian Ranger Districts are located along the eastern edge of western North Carolina's mountains, offering tourists a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities as well as the ability to admire the natural beauty of the mountains.
The Forest surrounds Asheville, contains some of the most stunning and challenging mountain landscapes in eastern North America. This entire area was formerly part of the Biltmore Estate!
The National Forest Foundation (NFF) named the Pisgah National Forest as a Treasured Landscape in 2017 as part of its national Treasured Landscapes, Unforgettable Experiences conservation initiative.
Check out the links below so you can start planning your visit!
Western North Carolina State Parks