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Hike to the Top of Bearwallow Mountain

Hendersonville, North Carolina

5.0/5
based on 2 reviews

Details

Distance

2 miles

Elevation Gain

583 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Evan Fisher

The bald atop Bearwallow Mountain provides expansive views of the French Broad Valley and is an excellent place for picnicking, hiking, and soaking in nature's beauty. During the warmer months, cows dot the pasture, making for a very picturesque scene.

Once you have parked along the roadside near the trailhead, pass through the big gate on the right side of the road and take the trail off to the right. The trail winds up the mountain for a mile before it empties out onto the bald atop Bearwallow. Once on the bald, you can follow the gravel road up to the top for even more impressive views of the French Broad Valley, Mount Pisgah, the Black Mountains, and many other Western North Carolina attractions. If you trek through the woods behind the towers, there is an overlook from which you can view Lake Lure and the Hickory Nut Gorge. If you want to change things up on the way down, you can follow the gravel road back to the trailhead, which is also about a mile long.

Be aware that the weather can be extreme on the bald. During the winter, winds can gust in excess of 70 mph and wind chills can drop to -30°F. Summertime thunderstorms pose a significant risk due to the exposed nature of Bearwallow Mountain.

Current Weather Conditions7-Day Weather Forecast 

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Features

Fitness
Chillin
Photography
Running
Yoga
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
Picnic Area
Romantic
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Hike to the Top of Bearwallow Mountain Reviews

I love this hike. whether it’s the middle of winter, fall, summer, or my personal fav, spring (all of the flowers are blooming), it is easily the shortest hike for the some of the best views. The summit never fails to take my breath away and is a great escape after a long day.

Moderate trail to the top. The views from the top are incredible. On a clear day you can actually see Charlotte to the East.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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