MST: Craggy Gardens Visitors Center to Graybeard Overlook

Today was a beautiful September day with the promising signs of Fall and some milder temperatures. I was excited about completing another area of Segment 3 of the MST while also celebrating the MST Birthday. This hike was the last portion of Segment 3 that I have not hiked between Pisgah Inn and Glassmine Overlook, and I was looking forward to reaching that milestone.

This 2.8 mile hike (one way) offers great views at the beginning at Craggy Gardens Visitor’s Center and at the end at Graybeard Overlook.

However, the beauty of this hike is the trail and the journey itself.

The moss covered rocks and trees as well as the thick fern covered forest floor reminded me of something out of a Tolkien fantasy world.

This trail is moderate because it requires constant attention to navigate the rocks. The climb is not too difficult and has several switchbacks to make it manageable.

This trail is a beauty and the trail crew that designed and maintains this portion have done a lot of heavy work to create such a walkable pathway. Thank you to all who support this trail.

At 1.1 miles in from the trailhead (Visitor’s Center), the trail branches off to a spur trail that leads another 2.5 miles to Douglas Falls. This is an additional adventure that I eagerly anticipate experiencing soon.

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