Entirely surrounded by scenic mountain peaks, ancient rivers, and cozy coves, Western North Carolina provides an outdoor setting like no other. And the community of Black Mountain sits right in the thick of it—at the edge of Pisgah National Forest, as well as near the Blue Ridge Parkway. With what seems like thousands of miles of well-traversed trails within a short drive, walking and hiking the outdoors is just one of many fun things to do in Black Mountain.
Whether an easy walk or a strenuous hike, take time to explore this amazing area and breathe in our fresh mountain air! Here are five trails near Black Mountain, NC, that are open right now.
Editor’s Note: Many WNC hiking trails were affected by Hurricane Helene in late September 2024. To the best of our knowledge, the trails listed here are open as of when this post was published, but the progress of trail repairs continues to change regularly. Check for any trail closures before you begin your hike, and be sure to follow all current posted safety precautions.
Lake Susan Walk
Length: 0.3 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Easy
Reconnecting with nature is simple in the town of Montreat. The easiest introduction to the 40 miles of private trails winding through the acres of wilderness surrounding the town is the Lake Susan Walk. Popular among joggers, this short loop offers a path around the lake at the heart of the Montreat Conference Center. The pleasant lake walk also connects to a number of other local trails, when open. Discover what the Blue Ridge has to offer along creeks, across rustic bridges, and through preserved woodland areas. Learn more.
Lake Tomahawk Walking Trail
Length: 0.55 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Easy
Outdoor recreation is one of Black Mountain’s hallmarks, and there are many parks, playgrounds, paved walkways, and bike paths throughout town. The iconic 10-acre Lake Tomahawk and its crushed granite, bankside walkways are a favorite spot for strolling, fishing off the pier, or taking a non-motorized boat ride. A display at the far end of the lake tells the tale of the Seven Sisters, a much beloved mountain range visible from there. And the available playground and pavilion make Lake Tomahawk the perfect destination for family and group events. Watch out for muddy conditions. Learn more.
Montreat Rainbow Road, Toll Road, Lookout Mountain
Length: 3.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
There are a few hiking options just south of Montreat College’s campus, off Lookout Road. Today, we’re recommending the combination of Montreat Rainbow Road, Toll Road, and Lookout Mountain. This route includes the entirety of the Rainbow Road and Lookout Trail Loop. It then follows the challenging route down Lookout Trail to the exposed rocks below the summit of Lookout Mountain, offering outstanding views of Montreat and the Seven Sisters. It then takes you to the summit of Lookout Mountain before looping back to the Rainbow Road Trail to finish the greater loop. This series of trails winds through a very popular area for birding, hiking, and walking, so parking can be limited during busy seasons. Learn more.
Bernard Mountain Trail
Length: 6.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Plan to spend close to half a day in nature on this 6.7-mile out-and-back trail near Old Fort. Even though Bernard Mountain is an ideal route for hiking, mountain biking, and running—and even bringing your pup!—it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring. The route begins along Point Lookout Trail (parts of which may still be closed) before quickly connecting to Bernard Mountain Trail. Your route climbs up a rocky ridge through beautiful forests, with switchbacks that lead to great views. Gaining 1,000 feet in elevation before leveling off, this moderately challenging route takes an average of three hours to complete. Learn more.
Kitsuma and Point Lookout Loop
Length: 9.7 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Experienced hikers will enjoy this challenging loop trail, which is also very popular with mountain bikers. From the access point along I-40, you’ll climb 400 feet in elevation along tight switchbacks for about a mile before reaching Kitsuma Peak. After another mile, the route travels downhill until you reach Mill Creek along Old US 70 West. From there, the route takes a steady incline up Point Lookout Trail until you reach Point Lookout around 7.6 miles into your journey. Continue the loop to finish where you started. The trail features a variety of terrain, including gravel, pavement, and natural surfaces with some roots and rocks that add excitement for bikers. Learn more.
Other great walking and hiking trails near Black Mountain, NC
The options above are just a short list of the hiking trails near Black Mountain that are currently accessible following the destruction left by Hurricane Helene in September 2024. Many other great trails and areas around trails remain closed due to fallen and damaged trees. Please practice caution when hiking and follow all safety and closure instructions.
As roadways, park sites, and independent trails continue to safely reopen across the region, we recommend checking out these hikes, as well:
- Graybeard Trail, a strenuous route with big rewards, including a birds-eye view of town, incredible scenery, and even a short spur to the small Graybeard Falls
- Catawba Falls River and Ridge, a beautiful loop trail that features a variety of terrains, including stairs, rolling hills, and boardwalk sections
- Point Lookout Trail, an out-and-back paved trail that is closed off to cars, leading to 180-degree mountain views. Parts of this trail are reported to be open now.
- The remaining six Town of Black Mountain greenways and trails, including the River Loop Trail and Flat Creek Trail
- The Montreat Gate Trail, a straight-shot trail with a few steep sections that generally offers a relatively comfortable climb up from Montreat Memorial Garden to Lake Susan on the Montreat College campus
- Black Mountain Crest Trail, known as the “Most Difficult Trail of the East,” which climbs more than 3,000 feet in four miles, ending after 11 miles at the observation deck at the summit of Mount Mitchell
Find a home near Black Mountain, NC
Nestled at the eastern edge of Buncombe County, locals are quick to explain everything you need to know about Black Mountain. For instance, did you know that the town is colloquially known as the “Front Porch of Western North Carolina”? This Swannanoa Valley community has long welcomed travelers into the region who climb over the Swannanoa Pass into WNC. Today, the historic small town still prides itself on its sense of community and friendly atmosphere.
Does that sound like the perfect lifestyle for you? Find homes for sale in Black Mountain, NC!
