Can you climb Looking Glass Rock?
The Looking Glass Rock Trail climbs about 1,700 ft. in just over three miles (6.5 miles round-trip, allow 4-5 hours). The many switchbacks along the way help make for a long and moderately difficult climb. A strong hiker can make it to the top in 1.5 hours and down in one hour.
Can you see Looking Glass Rock from the road?
The best view of Looking Glass Rock is from Looking Glass Rock Overlook, at milepost 417 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, near the town of Brevard. To reach the rock itself, the Looking Glass Rock Trail hike departs from a trailhead just off the forest road FS-475, south of Looking Glass Falls.
Why is it called Looking Glass Rock?
Geologists refer to it as a “pluton,” a big ball of granitic rock that would have become a volcano had it not cooled before it reached the earth’s surface. The name “Looking Glass” is derived from its appearance when rainwater freezes on its surface and reflects the sun like a mirror.
Can you swim in Looking Glass Falls?
Its easy accessibility makes Looking Glass Falls a popular spot for travelers along U.S. 276, Forest Heritage Scenic Byway, near Brevard in the Pisgah National Forest. You can venture onto the rocks in the stream below the falls, and even do some wading and swim underneath the falling water when water flow is lower.
How long is Graveyard Fields hike?
2.9 mile
Graveyard Fields Trail is a 2.9 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Balsam Grove, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from March until October.
Is Looking Glass Falls kid friendly?
A short, family-friendly walk to Looking Glass Falls. Many people wade and swim in the pool below. Accessibility: There are no designated accessible spaces along the paved shoulder of US 276 at the west end of the trail. The lookout area is accessible, however there are stairs and no ramp down to the base of the falls.
Are dogs allowed at Graveyard Fields?
Graveyard Fields Loop Your dog will love the cool summer temperatures and playing in the waterfalls and river. For your convenience, there is a parking area and restrooms at the start of the loop. Dogs must be on a 6-foot leash on National Park Service property.
What town is Graveyard Fields in?
Asheville
Graveyard Fields is a very popular hiking trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway (Milepost 418.8) south of Asheville. The Yellowstone Prong is the water source for two waterfalls in a mile-high valley filled with wildflowers and surrounded by the 6,000-ft.
Are there any rock climbing routes in Looking Glass?
Located near Brevard, Looking Glass has a huge range of climbing opportunities. Aid climbers will find grade IV and V lines reminiscent of Yosemite on the North Side; free trad climbers flock to the famous “eyebrows” of the Nose Area and Sun Wall. Route development on Looking Glass granite began in the mid-60s, with signature routes like The Nose.
Where is Looking Glass Rock in North Carolina?
Because it’s located in the Pisgah National Forest, camping is plentiful in the area. Looking Glass is located near Brevard, NC. Take US 276 northeast from Brevard into Pisgah National Forest, then continue about five miles to the intersection with FR 475; take a left here. After a few miles on 475, a fork will appear.
When is the best time to climb Looking Glass?
Climbing at Looking Glass is best during the fall and winter months. The North Side and Hidden Wall sections are shady enough for summer climbing. Because it’s located in the Pisgah National Forest, camping is plentiful in the area. Looking Glass is located near Brevard, NC.
Where is the parking for Looking Glass Rock?
This is parking for the South Side area of Looking Glass; for the Nose Area and Sun Wall, continue almost two miles further to the Sunwall Trail parking lot. Parking for the North Side and Hidden Wall is in a pullout roughly a quarter-mile past the Sunwall Trail.