Lookout Trail Trailhead - Search Nearby - Added by Edward Webb
Looking for a short, steep hike over varied terrain that ends in amazing views? Lookout Mountain might just be what you're looking for!
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains is Montreat, North Carolina. Just down the road from Asheville, it neighbors Black Mountain and doesn't disappoint for views. Montreat itself houses a plethora of hiking trails, but the cream of the crop HAS to be Lookout Mountain. After a weekend of checking out trails in the area, it remains my favorite hike, it's just that awesome!
This hike should be treated as Intermediate to Advanced, as it does gain 623 feet of elevation of 1.1 miles, and a good majority of that is gained towards the end. You will be scaling some rocks, so come prepared going up and down the trail to Lookout (see pictures for examples).
Many of the trails in Montreat are exquisitely maintained, and several of them are blazed with new water walls keeping the trail system from eroding away. But do exercise caution if you're hiking during or after it has rained in the area.
Once you reach the top you will be treated with stunning views of Montreat and the Seven Sisters that overlook Montreat, and can also be seen from the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Be sure to check out all the other trails at Montreat using this handy Montreat Trail Description sheet.
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Nearby Adventures
Hike the Craggy Pinnacle Trail
1.4 Miles Round Trip - 300 ft gain
Hike to Green Knob Lookout Tower
1 Miles Round Trip - 313 ft gain
Summit Mount Mitchell via the Old Mitchell Trail
4.5 Miles Round Trip - 484 ft gain
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Reviews
Overall rating:
Lit
My favorite hike I've done because it's short but challenging with the elevation gain and has amazing views
Amazing Experience
This was by far one of the best places I've been to yet in NC. The hike wasn't too hard. It got a little intense at parts but it was relatively short. Once at the top the view totally blew my mind. There is a 180 degree view of the beautiful Black Mountains. This is totally a trip worth the drive as well as the hike. I'd definitely hit this up if you have the chance!
