Spend a Day on the Bearwallow Mountain Trail

Grab your camera and lace up your hiking shoes! Bearwallow Mountain is perfect for a fun day outdoors. Located on the rim of Hickory Nut Gorge, this 4,232-foot peak beckons visitors with panoramic views of Western North Carolina. Follow a trail to the top where you’ll find wildflowers in the spring, grazing cows in the summer, and dazzling colors in the fall. You can even enjoy sparkling snow in the wintertime. No matter what time of year you visit, a hike on the Bearwallow Mountain Trail will leave you with lasting memories! Here are some of the things you’ll see along the way.

Learn more about the Bearwallow Mountain Trail and other hiking hotspots when you download our free vacation guide. It’s full of information on fun things to do during your stay at The Esmeralda!

Your Guide to Hiking the Bearwallow Mountain Trail

The Bearwallow Mountain Trail begins behind an old metal gate at the Bearwallow Mountain Road parking area. The climb is strenuous but not difficult, and the trail switches back and forth at a 537-foot elevation gain. A historic fire tower marks the summit where you’ll have sweeping views of the French Broad River Valley, Mount Pisgah, Hickory Nut Gorge, and beyond.

Note: The North Carolina Forest Service fire tower was used as a lookout until the mid-1990s. Unfortunately, hikers are not allowed to climb the tower.

THE TROMBATORE TRAIL

If you’re looking to extend your hike, combine the Bearwallow Mountain Trail with the 2.5-mile Trombatore Trail. This route also starts in the park area and leads away from Bearwallow Mountain toward Blue Ridge Pastures. It offers fantastic views, varied terrain, and peaceful, surrounding forest. Be sure to view a trail map before you head out.

LITTLE BEARWALLOW MOUNTAIN

Little Bearwallow Mountain is another great place to explore. Here, hikers can tackle a challenging 3-mile trail that climbs about 1,800 feet to the summit. You’ll pass a 100-foot waterfall, towering cliffs, and a panoramic lookout point along the way. The trail ends in a highland grassland atop Little Bearwallow Mountain.

HUNGRY? PACK A PICNIC

All of that activity is sure to work up an appetite! Our Cheers! Trail Package is perfect for a trip to Bearwallow Mountain and includes a bottle of local wine, a scrumptious picnic lunch, and dinner for two after your hike. Cheers!

COME HOME TO THE ESMERALDA INN & RESTAURANT

After an awesome day on the mountain, take a short 20-minute drive to our Chimney Rock bed and breakfast and unwind. Our inn is surrounded by the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and is an ideal home base for all of your outdoor adventures. Enjoy spacious accommodations, beautiful views, and access to our spa during your stay. We even have a fabulous restaurant right on site! So what are you waiting for? Check our availability online and make your reservations today. We look forward to having you!

Find out how you can save on your trip to Western North Carolina with our current vacation specials.