Guide to Summer in Pisgah

It’s starting to feel like summertime in Pisgah! Beginning Memorial Day weekend, many families make their way to Brevard and Transylvania County for vacations, outdoor adventures, and summer camp excursions. It’s an ideal time for travelers of all ages to experience the majesty of the mountains, forests, roadways, and streams of Pisgah National Forest.

Popular Summertime activities include:

Mountain Biking – Pisgah National Forest was recently named a Top 10 mountain biking destination in the US by National Geographic! Nearby DuPont State Forest offers nearly a hundred miles of flowy singletrack trails. No matter your skill level, the Brevard area is a great destination for mountain bikers.

Road Cycling – The Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the most scenic roads in the country, is accessible throughout Transylvania County. Also there are hundreds of miles of state highways, paved mountain roads, and gravel USFS roads to choose from for your ideal distance and ride conditions.

Hiking & Backpacking – The options are endless for hiking throughout Pisgah National Forest. Here is more information on trails in the Davidson River area, which is directly adjacent to Pilot Cove. Whether you are an experienced backpacker looking to plan an extended trip, or a casual day hiker, Pisgah offers plentiful opportunities to see the sights afoot. Check out this comprehensive guide to all trails in Pisgah.

Summer Camps – Every year thousands of campers come to Transylvania and Henderson Counties. Parents can have their own vacation when picking up or dropping off their children, enjoying Brevard’s upscale dining opportunities and nightlife. Some even stay for a week or longer!

Waterfalls – Come experience the Land of Waterfalls! Here is more info on notable waterfalls in the area.

Sliding Rock – This natural 60 ft water slide on Looking Glass Creek is a popular attraction in Pisgah National Forest.

Fly Fishing – Transylvania County is home to some of the most pristine stretches of mountain water in the Southeast, offering an estimated 500 miles of fishable water within an hour drive of Brevard.

Tubing – Cool off in a refreshing mountain stream! Tubing is a fun activity for the entire family. Tubing options include the Davidson River and the French Broad River.

Kayaking / Canoeing – Grab your paddle and hit the water! The French Broad River and other area rivers offer great paddling and canoeing options.

Stand Up Paddleboarding – Quieter sections of the French Broad River, along with area lakes and larger swimming holes, offer unique opportunities for stand up paddleboarding.

Snorkeling – Snorkeling in Western North Carolina? Why not! Local guide Oxbow River Snorkeling gives the opportunity to experience pristine mountain rivers and streams from an underwater perspective.

Rock Climbing – Western North Carolina boasts the most rock climbing options East of the Mississippi. Some of the most notable crags are nearby Brevard, including John’s Rock, Cedar Rock, Laurel Knob, and the iconic Looking Glass Rock. There are plenty of bouldering options too!

Shopping, Dining, and Breweries – Brevard is a town abuzz with great food, diverse shopping, local breweries, and authentic mountain culture. Come experience the small town charm and Southern Hospitality!

Camping – A yearly camping trip to Pisgah National Forest is a highlight for many families.

Golf – Come hit the links! Beautiful mountain golf courses await your next visit.

Asheville – A short day trip from Brevard, the eclectic City of Asheville was recently named the #1 destination in the US by Lonely Planet!

Biltmore Estate – The Biltmore Estate is a special place. Guests can step back in time to experience the largest private residence in the US, surrounded by manicured gardens, pastures, and vineyards.

Wildlife Viewing – Summertime brings out abundant wildlife in Pisgah National Forest! The forest is a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Blue Ridge Parkway – The Blue Ridge Parkway has long been recognized as the most scenic road in the United States. Take a joyride to experience the sweeping mountain views from higher elevations!

Horseback Riding – DuPont State Forest and Pisgah National Forest both offer miles and miles of equestrian-friendly trails.

At Pilot Cove, we were booked solid for Memorial Day weekend with families and adventurers alike. We enjoyed hosting our great guests! The reservation calendar is steadily filling up for the coming months, explore here for more info on your perfect Summer vacation to Brevard and Pisgah National Forest.