Distance: 2.3 mile one way
Difficulty: Moderate – Difficult
Elevation Change: gain = 1046 ft; loss = 632 ft
My Hike: 4.7 miles (round trip) Out-and-Back
source: Great Day Hikes of North Carolina’s Mountains-to-Sea Trail
I have hiked most of the MST from Pisgah Inn to Mt Mitchell and this hike by far is one of my favorites. I hiked this one out-and-back, so it ended up being just short of 5.0 miles.
This area had recently experienced a lot of rain, so there were some areas that were very slick and washed out.
I enjoyed this hike so much because it gives the hiker an exposure to many different types of terrain, plant life, views, etc. From spruce-fir forests; grass balds; boulder scrambles and even some stream crossings.
Taking the wet rocks into account, I would rate this on the high end of moderate.
At the approximate midpoint of this hike, there is a great spot for a rest and panoramic views. “Lunch Rock” is about 1.0 mile from the Graybeard Overlook. There is a convenient path that goes around the rock and makes for very easy climbing. Once on top, the 360 degree views are some of the best you will find in this area.
If you are on the BRP between Craggy Gardens and Mt Mitchell, I highly recommend this hike. Even a short 1.0 mile hike to “Lunch Rock” would be well worth the walk.
