What better way to enjoy a lovely morning or afternoon than with an easy hike up to a mountain bald (mostly) free of trees and with views that are beyond amazing? Wow… North Carolina really does have it all, huh?!

Bearwallow Mountain is located in northeastern Henderson County, not far from Interstate 26, and just north of Chimney Rock.

TripAdvisor/R84W

alltrails/David Gant The trail is a 2.1 mile loop that has an elevation gain of just under 600 feet.

It features several sets of stairs, some switchbacks, and some places where it levels off so you can catch your breath.

TripAdvisor/John F

TripAdvisor/R84W If you want to take the path of least resistance, for whatever reason (bad knees, etc.) then just veer left at the start of the trail onto the small gravel road. It intersects with the trail near the top of the mountain and you’ll avoid most of the steps.

On the other hand, the steps can be both picturesque and adventurous! We’re thinking walking sticks are in order for this one, though.

alltrails/R84 Whitehead

TripAdvisor/John F At the top of the loop is a bald that doles out unobstructed views of Hickory Nut Gorge and miles and miles of mountain layers in the distance. So beautiful!

One thing you should know… you’ll likely be sharing this magnificent view with a few permanent residents of this gorgeous mountaintop!

TripAdvisor/R84W

alltrails.com Find the start of the trail at this Google Maps link. The loop trail for Bearwallow Mountain is shown above. Some people hike up the side with all the switchbacks and the steps and then take the gravel Fire Tower Road back down the mountain. Choose the path that works for you, and find more information (if you need it) at this link on alltrails.com.

Are you a novice hiker? For more easy and beautiful hikes in the Tar Heel State, keep reading here!

TripAdvisor/R84W

alltrails/David Gant

The trail is a 2.1 mile loop that has an elevation gain of just under 600 feet.

TripAdvisor/John F

TripAdvisor/R84W

If you want to take the path of least resistance, for whatever reason (bad knees, etc.) then just veer left at the start of the trail onto the small gravel road. It intersects with the trail near the top of the mountain and you’ll avoid most of the steps.

alltrails/R84 Whitehead

At the top of the loop is a bald that doles out unobstructed views of Hickory Nut Gorge and miles and miles of mountain layers in the distance. So beautiful!

alltrails.com

Find the start of the trail at this Google Maps link. The loop trail for Bearwallow Mountain is shown above. Some people hike up the side with all the switchbacks and the steps and then take the gravel Fire Tower Road back down the mountain. Choose the path that works for you, and find more information (if you need it) at this link on alltrails.com.

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