Conveniently located adjacent to Pilot Cove at the entrance to Pisgah National Forest, The HUB is a full-service bike shop stocking everything you need for your mountain or road cycling needs. Brands include Santa Cruz, Transition, Evil, Ibis, Norco, and Chromag. Backcountry Outdoors is an outdoor gear shop located within walking distance. Also stop in for a pint at the Pisgah Tavern, stocking a variety of craft beer options to unwind after a day in the saddle.
THINGS TO DO
GUIDES
BIKE RENTALS
As Brevard’s original bike shop, Sycamore Cycles is a respected mainstay from both locals and tourists alike. Located walking distance from Pilot Cove, the shop is fully equipped to handle all of your cycling purchase, maintenance, or rental needs. Brands include Specialized, Yeti, and Trek. The shop is also home to Crank Coffee, a full coffee and pastry shop to start your day off right.
Located close to Downtown Brevard, Squatch Bikes and Brews is a full-service shop offering everything you need for your cycling needs. Brands include Kona, Rocky Mountain, and Pivot Cycles. Stop by for a pint when you pick up your rental, service, or new bike!
RADIO STATIONS
We are big music fans here at Pilot Cove, and we are proud to support WNCW 88.7 both monetarily and with our radio dials. The station truly is world-class. WNCW is a non-commercial public radio station licensed to Isothermal Community College in Spindale, North Carolina. The station broadcasts a varied format including folk, blues, jazz, reggae, Celtic, world, rock, bluegrass, indie, and news. No need to turn your dial anywhere else!
WATER SPORTS
Full service guide company offering climbing, canyoneering, mountain biking, hiking, backpacking,waterfall tours, adventure race instruction, and paddling trips. We also provide you with an opportunity to see the North Carolina mountains through any variety of these activities over one day or a series of days.
Oxbow River Snorkeling is the first company to focus on guided river snorkeling in the United States. Our mission is to provide a full scale river snorkeling adventure, while our customers create lasting memories of our ancient watershed. We have designed several tours along the upper French Broad River and its tributaries. You will see examples of different types of aquatic communities and each adventure is packed full of potential surprises around every bend! Come join us as we venture below the surface of some of the oldest rivers in the world and remember to bring your waterproof camera or GoPro!
We also have a full line of paddle equipment, recreational kayaks, stand up paddle boards, and whitewater boats. We don’t stop there; we also have Asheville’s largest selection of disc golf supplies.
Check out one of the coolest outdoor experiences in Transylvania County and Western North Carolina with our totally mobile company. We bring the adventure to you! Stand Up Paddle boarding (SUP) offers a fun, relaxing way to play on the local rivers and lakes. Our guide brings a unique and fun experience to every outing making this an adventure that is just for you!
Float or fish the majestic French Broad River at your leisure! Located at the confluence of the West Fork and the North Fork of the French Broad River, this full service fly fishing shop also offers guided trips, tubing rentals and shuttle service, a taproom, and canoe/kayak rentals to complete your day on the water.
LOCAL EVENTS
Hosted by the Steep Canyon Rangers this festival is a must see. Held annually in early September at the Brevard Music Center.
DUPONT STATE FOREST
DuPont State Recreational Forest is the home of more than 10,000 acres of forest, trails, and majestic waterfalls between Brevard and Hendersonville, North Carolina.
BREWERIES
Oskar Blues is Brevard’s largest brewery with nationwide distribution. Check out their Pisgah Forest brewery and tasting toom, also known as the Tasty Weasel. Also be sure to catch a festival or event at the nearby Oskar Blues REEB Ranch.
Locations in Downtown Brevard and Pisgah Forest. The Pisgah Forest location is walking distance from Pilot Cove.
Explore the numerous Breweries of Beer City USA, about 45 minutes away! There are too many to list here, please visit the links below for a comprehensive list.
TOUR GUIDES AND SHUTTLES
Guided hiking tours, camping tours, beer and wine tours, fully-equipped van rentals, and more with customized itineraries to your needs. Also custom elopement ceremonies in the beautiful Western NC mountains!
Leap Frog Tours offers a wide variety of tour and transportation experiences. Tours include brewery tours, agriculture tours, food tours, art tours, and custom tours. Shuttle services are utilized by both travelers and outdoor recreation users (i.e. – drop off at a point and hike/ride back). Contact Leap Frog Tours to book your custom experience today!
Backcountry Butler offers only the finest transportation and tour services to the Asheville, Brevard, and Western North Carolina areas. We focus on elegance, class, hospitality, and luxury. We also offer multiple luxury tours throughout the Asheville and Brevard areas. Let us pamper you as you discover the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and all the area has to offer.
ARTS + SHOPPING
Pure, natural, and uncensored artisanal honey from a property bordering Pisgah National Forest. Tours available!
The Brevard Clay gallery features a collection of functional, affordable ceramics as well as other local crafts. We offer a curated collection that honors quality craftsmanship as well as aesthetic quality. Brevard Clay also offers a paint your own pottery studio for a fun experience with the entire family!
Art gallery featuring works from local artists, custom framing, handcrafted stain glass lamps, pottery and unique gifts. The talented artist/owner Rebecca Kahrs also offers art workshops and classes for individuals.
Fine art photography of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the work of local and regional artists including blown and fused glass, sculpture, and paintings. Located in Cedar Mountain on Highway 276.
Gravy is an artisan and retail market with partial sale proceeds benefiting the Boys and Girls Club of Transyvania County. There are 71 dealers at Gravy, many of them local artists, and many of the products unique to the area. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Hunters & Gatherers proudly presents wonderful creations by several talented artists from around the states. We specialize in Made-In-USA goods. We also serve Ice Cream, Special Coffees and we have a little Saloon to enjoy our local craft beer.
A vintage-style general store offering unique shopping in a quaint setting, D.D. Bullwinkel’s carries Men’s and Women’s clothing for hiking, mountain living, local adventures and adventures around the world. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Dubbed “The Coolest Store on Earth”, this established toy store offers something for children and customers of all ages. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Quaint shop in Downtown Brevard offering local artwork, handcrafted jewelry, functional art, furnishings, recycled and repurposed items, artisan clothing, motorcycle gear, wood, metal, pottery , fiber, more!
The Duckpond Pottery is a working ceramic studio and gallery as well as a non- profit community center for the visual and performing arts. Located on Highway 276 in between Brevard and Cedar Mountain.
Clever, whimsical figures – animals, fairies, gnomes – greet visitors off Hwy. 276, where terra cotta pottery and local-cut stone are for sale right from the yard. Sundry items, canned goods, and unusual mountain collectibles make the gift shop a pleasure to peruse. Watch for the rare “Jackpoke,” an Appalachian cousin to trolls and leprechauns! Located on Highway 726 in between Brevard and Cedar Mountain.
Specializing in unique gifts and sundries, including gift baskets, toys, bath oils, luggage and accessories. On-line ordering available. Located in Downtown Brevard for over 25 years.
Number 7 Arts offers a diverse collection of artwork by local Transylvania County Artists. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Fine art gallery featuring the works of International, National, and Regional Artists and Craftsmen. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Theophilus offers a cosmopolitan experience amidst the relaxed mountain lifestyle of Brevard. Providing fashion and gift options that understand modern style while maintaining personality and building relationships is what we strive to provide for our customers and our community. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Pure Pets really cares about you & your pets! Self-Serve Dog Baths, Training & Educational Classes in Huge Training Area. Located in Downtown Brevard across from Library.
The Whistlestop is a gourmet market and produce stand featuring Carolina grown, raised, and made products. Carrying a wide variety of locally-grown seasonal fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, raw unfiltered honey, spices, nuts, bread, jams, jellies, craft beers, hand selected wines, ice, potted plants, flowers, herbs, starter plants, firewood, birdseed, & Taste of the Wild Pet Food. Located on Highway 276 in between Brevard and Cedar Mountain.
Originally established as a family business in 1988 by the John O. Dodson family, the Mud Dabbers Pottery store and gallery now features the works of over 25 local potters. Located on Highway 276 in between Brevard and Cedar Mountain.
Lilly T’s Clothing Company is a ladies’ boutique located in historic Downtown Brevard.
Moose Tracks stocks comfortable footwear for Men, Women and Children. Located in Downtown Brevard.
The Grateful Dog offers only the best in holistic dog and cat supplies. Keep your pet happy, healthy and GRATEFUL! Come by today!
Specializing in salvaging old houses, barns, commercial, and industrial buildings. Full warehouse of old doors, mantels, tin ceilings, and reclaimed lumber. The shop makes unique furniture with lots of character from old doors and salvaged materials. Located in the Brevard Lumberyard District, near Downtown Brevard.
Family-owned jewelry business priding itself on great service, trust, loyalty, friendship and faith. Diamond Rush Jewelers provides a complete array of services ranging from jewelry repair and design, appraisal, re-stringing, watch batteries, watch repair, and custom orders.
Located at the gateway to Dupont State Forest in the old Cedar Mountain post office, Changes in Altitude features nature-inspired art from local potters, painters, woodworkers, photographers and metal shapers. Discover handcrafted and unique treasures that will bring joy to your garden and home – where nature becomes art.
Located in an 1880’s pebble-dash house, Mountain Forest offers functional and whimsical pottery made on site by artist Mary Murray.
The premier music venue in Brevard, NC offering weekly shows by nationally touring and local bands. Craft beers, food, free pool, wifi, NFL, comedy and more!
Family owned, small batch coffee roaster offering specialty wholesale and retail coffee since 2004. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Situated in an old-growth forest, Hemlocks Studio offers creative escapes for small groups and individuals; artists, writers, readers, and more. Take one of the pre-planned escapes or let Hemlocks arrange one for your group.
Early-19th-century movie house featuring first-run films on a single screen. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Crystal Mountain Gem Mine brings you and your family the unique experience of Gem Mining for your very own gem stones, keep everything you find! Located in Downtown Brevard.
REAL ESTATE
Altamont Property Group, lead by Collin O’Berry, is a top-rated real estate group with offices in Asheville and Brevard NC. Through data-driven market knowledge, attention to detail, active communication, trust, and professionalism, our commitment to clients is uncompromising. Whether you are looking to buy, sell, or invest, the team offers a premier level of service to accomplish your real estate goals throughout Western North Carolina. Collin is also a Managing Partner of Pilot Cove.
Practice Areas : Residential, Luxury, Land Tract, Investment, Commercial, Development.
RESTAURANTS & WATERING HOLES
Quality coffee locally roasted in Transylvania County. Look for the Ridgeline blend in your Pilot Cove cabin!
Delicious hot dogs served with creative toppings! Aloha Hotdog Company is usually stationed at the HUB and Pisgah Tavern during the Spring, Summer, and Fall months. Walking distance from Pilot Cove.
A Pisgah Forest staple, open seasonally during the Spring, Summer, and Fall. Located walking distance from Pilot Cove.
Delicious Thai delicacies prepared with authentic ingredients and recipes. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Eclectic locavore comfort fare offered in a sharp, lofty space with exposed brick. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Jordan Street Cafe offers fine dining American Cuisine, Gourmet Burgers and Wraps, delicious Appetizers, Signature salads, homemade bread and pesto, and homemade deserts. Full bar with beers from local breweries and more. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Delicious Sushi and Japanese fare served in casual atmosphere with full bar. Located walking distance from Pilot Cove.
Delicious, creative homestyle cooking in relaxed atmosphere. Located in the Brevard Lumberyard District near Downtown Brevard.
Mountainside seafood eatery with a seasonal menu of burgers, steaks & fish specialties. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Creative fare served in a casual, yet elegant atmosphere. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Italian comfort food, including wood-oven pizza, served in relaxed digs in a mountain-style house. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Bustling outpost serving sandwiches & soups in a comfy interior with wood floors & a laid-back vibe. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Sprawling, classic BBQ joint serving wood-smoked meats & hushpuppies in a family-friendly setting. Located walking distance from Pilot Cove.
The premier music venue in Brevard, NC offering weekly shows by nationally touring and local bands. Craft beers, food, free pool, wifi, NFL, comedy and more!
Family owned, small batch coffee roaster offering specialty wholesale and retail coffee since 2004. Located in Downtown Brevard.
The Cedar Mountain Cafe focuses on making everything on the menu in-house, including biscuits, dressings, sodas, soups and sauces using nutritious, natural, and simple ingredients that are locally sourced and easy to pronounce. Located on Highway 276 in Cedar Mountain.
Full-service coffee truck. Often parked at the HUB, walking distance from Pilot Cove.
Located in an old family home right on Main Street in Downtown Brevard, Hobnob Restaurant offers big city dining with the comfortable ambiance.
BBQ food truck serving real hickory smoked meats, quality homemade sauces and sides, and ice cold soft drinks. Often parked at the HUB walking distance from Pilot Cove.
Oskar Blues Brewery’s food truck, serving creative burgers and sandwiches. Often parked at the HUB, walking distance from Pilot Cove.
With the look and feel of a classic Carolina barbecue restaurant, Old Etowah Smokehouse is rooted in the traditions of wood smoked meats from an indoor brick & mortar pit which was originally built in the 1980’s. Located in Etowah about 10 minutes from Pilot Cove.
Western North Carolina’s Original Family Seafood Restaurant. Establish 1967. Located walking distance from Pilot Cove.
Burgers, fries, hot dogs, BBQ, and fast food American fare. Located walking distance from Pilot Cove.
No-nonsense Japanese restaurant supplying heaping plates of hibachi & teriyaki fare. Located near Pilot Cove.
Delivery to Pilot Cove, dine-in, and take out pizza. Located walking distance from Pilot Cove.
Delivery to Pilot Cove. Counter-serve chain offering deep-dish or classic pizzas with flavored crusts, plus wings & subs. Located near Downtown Brevard and Brevard College.
“Coffee cARTS Studio” is a Coffee/Blender Bar, Bakery and Local Products Shop with an Arts/Crafts Studio & Classroom. Located between Brevard and Rosman.
Henry’s is a family owned, quick service restaurant right near the heart of downtown Brevard, NC.
Cardinal Drive-In is a restaurant with a nostalgic leap back in time to the 1950’s when waitresses brought your meal to you in your vehicle! Burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Located near Downtown Brevard.
DAHLIA’S is a cool, hip concession/food truck offering a creative American menu. Located walking distance from Pilot Cove.
Counter-serve eatery dishing up classic Chinese food, plus some Thai options, in a casual space. Located near Downtown Brevard.
Community oriented market offering organic food, locally grown, farm fresh, grass fed healthy meats, natural whole foods, fresh local produce, nutritional ingredients, wine, and beer.
Country style breakfast, lunch subs and great dinner. Located near Downtown Brevard.
Low-key eatery offering an array of self-serve, all-you-can-eat Asian & American food. Located near Pilot Cove.
Wood-paneled Irish pub with a wraparound bar & a pressed-tin ceiling, plus Irish & American food. Located near Downtown Brevard.
Fresh baked pastries, cookies, and cakes made from scratch. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Brevard’s premier fine dining Mexican Restaurant. Fresh ingredients and elegant atmosphere. Located near Downtown Brevard.
Homey, relaxed Italian joint with New York–style pizza & local craft beers, plus TVs showing sports. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Wine bar featuring off-beat and traditional favorites and select beers. Food is designed in order to compliment and enhance the wines of choice. Located in Downtown Brevard.
The Cedar Mountain Canteen is the Bier Garden of Cedar Mountain, home to Dupont State Forest. It’s located at the intersection of Hwy 276 and Cascade Lake Road.
Explore the numerous Breweries of Beer City USA, about 45 minutes away! There are too many to list here, please visit the links below for a comprehensive list.
OUTDOOR RECREATION ATTRACTIONS
The Blue Ridge Parkway has long been recognized as the most scenic road in the United States. Managed by the National Park Service, the Blue Ridge Parkway runs for 469 miles from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. The Blue Ridge Parkway is easily accessible from Pilot Cove via a 15 mile scenic drive or bike ride along Highway 276.
A dedicated year-round downhill MTB park just outside of Mars HIll NC, about an hour from Pilot Cove. Over 1000′ of vertical elevation drop on purpose built downhill trails! Reservations Required. Please check website in advance for open dates, rates, availability, and requirements for the park. A must visit for downhill riders during their visit to Western NC!
OUTDOOR RECREATION EVENTS
LOCAL ATTRACTIONS
Pure, natural, and uncensored artisanal honey from a property bordering Pisgah National Forest. Tours available!
Fun for the entire family with an outdoor education center and recreation opportunities. Also offering weddings and corporate retreats. Located near Lake Toxaway.
The Blue Ridge Parkway has long been recognized as the most scenic road in the United States. Managed by the National Park Service, the Blue Ridge Parkway runs for 469 miles from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. The Blue Ridge Parkway is easily accessible from Pilot Cove via a 15 mile scenic drive or bike ride along Highway 276.
The Whistlestop is a gourmet market and produce stand featuring Carolina grown, raised, and made products. Carrying a wide variety of locally-grown seasonal fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, raw unfiltered honey, spices, nuts, bread, jams, jellies, craft beers, hand selected wines, ice, potted plants, flowers, herbs, starter plants, firewood, birdseed, & Taste of the Wild Pet Food. Located on Highway 276 in between Brevard and Cedar Mountain.
Situated in an old-growth forest, Hemlocks Studio offers creative escapes for small groups and individuals; artists, writers, readers, and more. Take one of the pre-planned escapes or let Hemlocks arrange one for your group.
Early-19th-century movie house featuring first-run films on a single screen. Located in Downtown Brevard.
DuPont State Recreational Forest is the home of more than 10,000 acres of forest, trails, and majestic waterfalls between Brevard and Hendersonville, North Carolina.
One of the most magnificent estates in America, if not the world. Located about 45 minutes away from Pilot Cove, near Asheville.
Nestled in Pink Beds Valley is the Cradle of Forestry in America, the birthplace of science-based forest management and a living legacy made possible by George and Edith Vanderbilt of the nearby Biltmore Estate. Some 87,000 aces of the Vanderbilt’s “Pisgah Forest” tract became the nucleus of the Pisgah National Forest, established in 1916. This 6500 acre historic site in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville, NC was created by Congress in 1968 to “preserve, develop, and make available to this and future generations the birthplace of forestry and forestry education in America.”
Elements Spa is a wellness spa that provides a holistic and caring environment for your health and well-being. Offering massage therapy, skin therapy, and body treatments. Located in Downtown Brevard.
Crystal Mountain Gem Mine brings you and your family the unique experience of Gem Mining for your very own gem stones, keep everything you find! Located in Downtown Brevard.
LOCATION
319 Gateway Junction Drive
Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
Next to the Hub & Pisgah Tavern - Get Directions
Red Wolf Mountain Bike Tours
Guided mountain bike rides throughout the Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Recreational Forest.
www.redwolftours.com/
NCLine Adventures
Guided hiking tours, camping tours, beer and wine tours, fully-equipped van rentals, and more with customized itineraries to your needs. Also custom elopement ceremonies in the beautiful Western NC mountains!
https://www.nclineadventures.com/
Carmichael Training Systems
A great opportunity for guided MTB adventures with top-tier athletes and coaches! Explore the beautiful trails of Pisgah National Forest, Dupont State Forest, and Paris Mountain State Park with experienced and certified CTS Mountain Bike Guides. No matter your ability level, we can craft unique half-day, full-day, and multi-day guided mountain bike tours for you. Book a trip with CTS to experience a thrilling ride and get a real taste for the stunning Brevard area MTB trails!
Carmichael Training Services – Guided Tours
The Adventure Fitness Guru
Guided mountain bike trips from an accomplished cyclist, personal trainer, and endurance athlete – Steven McHone. Personalized experiences highlight great trails and provide cycling instruction and fitness consulting, with optional yoga and massage therapy. Have fun and learn how to treat your body well!
http://stevenmchone.com/
Pura Vida Adventures
Full service guide company offering climbing, canyoneering, mountain biking, hiking, backpacking,waterfall tours, adventure race instruction, and paddling trips. We also provide you with an opportunity to see the North Carolina mountains through any variety of these activities over one day or a series of days.
http://pvadventures.com
Wild Carolina Fly Fishing
Guided fly fishing trips from knowledgeable local angler Ross Pritchard.
https://www.facebook.com/Wildcarolinafly/
Pisgah Mountain Bike Adventures
Guided mountain bike trips throughout Western NC.
www.pisgahmountainbikeadventures.com/
Pisgah Stables
Guided horseback rides throughout Transylvania County. Open seasonally April – October.
www.pisgahstables.com
Green River Adventures
Whitewater kayaking and rafting guide service.
www.greenriveradventures.com/
The Bike Farm Pisgah
Mountain bike guide and coaching service throughout DuPont and the Pisgah National Forest.
www.bikefarmpisgah.com/
Oxbow River Snorkeling
Oxbow River Snorkeling is the first company to focus on guided river snorkeling in the United States. Our mission is to provide a full scale river snorkeling adventure, while our customers create lasting memories of our ancient watershed. We have designed several tours along the upper French Broad River and its tributaries. You will see examples of different types of aquatic communities and each adventure is packed full of potential surprises around every bend! Come join us as we venture below the surface of some of the oldest rivers in the world and remember to bring your waterproof camera or GoPro!
http://www.oxbowriversnorkeling.com/
White Squirrel Paddle Boards
Check out one of the coolest outdoor experiences in Transylvania County and Western North Carolina with our totally mobile company. We bring the adventure to you! Stand Up Paddle boarding (SUP) offers a fun, relaxing way to play on the local rivers and lakes. Our guide brings a unique and fun experience to every outing making this an adventure that is just for you!
http://whitesquirrelpaddleboards.com/
Davidson River Outfitters
Conveniently located walking distance from Pilot Cove, this full-service fly fishing shop and guide service offers the gear, expertise, and local knowledge to make the most of your fishing experience.
http://www.davidsonflyfishing.com/
Headwaters Outfitters
Float or fish the majestic French Broad River at your leisure! Located at the confluence of the West Fork and the North Fork of the French Broad River, this full service fly fishing shop also offers guided trips, tubing rentals and shuttle service, a taproom, and canoe/kayak rentals to complete your day on the water.
http://www.headwatersoutfitters.com/
Pisgah Field School
The Pisgah Field School will introduce you to the unique recreational, natural and cultural wonders of Pisgah National Forest, DuPont State Forest and the surrounding landscapes of the Southern Appalachians. Let us guide you around the original backyard and classroom of the Biltmore Estate through hikes, tours, and science-based workshops, while discovering the local businesses and charm of beautiful downtown Brevard, NC. Our staff and expert guides share an enthusiasm for this incredible area and will help to strengthen your appreciation for the natural world and our mountain heritage.
http://cfaia.org/pisgah-field-school-brevard-nc/
Fox Mountain Guides and Climbing School
Guided rock climbing excursions and instruction.
http://foxmountainguides.com/
Blue Ridge Hiking Company
Jennifer Pharr Davis founded Blue Ridge Hiking Company to share her love and knowledge of the hiking and to expose people to the majestic beauty of the southern Appalachian mountains. Blue Ridge Hiking Company’s skilled guides hold a high degree of experience, regional knowledge, and professional expertise. We delight in working with beginners and revel in creating a challenge for more adventurous clients. Regardless of the hike’s duration and destination, our company values remain the same: “Respect for self, others, and the environment.”
http://blueridgehikingco.com/