What to Do Near Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina (When You’re Not Mountain Biking)
Waterfalls, Views, and Quick Stops in North Carolina’s Pisgah National Forest
Looking Glass Falls from below—stood right at the base and felt the full force of it.
I came to Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina for the riding—mountain biking was the reason for the trip. But in between trail days, I made time for a few other stops that were easy to reach and worth checking out. Two waterfalls, a short drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and a couple quiet moments away from the bike. If you're looking for things to do near Pisgah National Forest when you're not on the trail, here's what I saw, what I skipped, and what I’d do again.
Waterfalls Near Pisgah National Forest Worth a Stop
There are over 250 waterfalls in the Pisgah region of western North Carolina. Some are buried deep in the woods, but a few are right off the road—easy to check out without a hike. I made time for two during the week. Both were quick stops that didn’t cut into ride time, and both were worth it.
Looking Glass Falls
No real hike—just a quick pull-off and a set of steps. But I didn’t stop at the overlook. I walked down to the lower area, stepped across the rocks, and stood right at the base. You can feel the force of it—loud, constant, and close enough to mist your face. If you hit it early or late, it’s quiet. Worth the stop.
Sliding Rock
Sliding Rock in Pisgah National Forest, NC—a natural waterslide with swimmers lining up to ride it down.
Sliding Rock is a smooth rock face with water running down it—and people sliding down it like a natural water park. I didn’t go in, but it’s a local favorite, especially in summer. Easy parking, quick access, and a good stop if you’re on a rest day or just passing through.
Starting around Memorial Day, this spot fills up fast and the $5 entry fee kicks in. Go early or avoid peak weekends if you’re not into crowds.
Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway in Western North Carolina
View from an overlook off the Blue Ridge Parkway in western North Carolina.
After checking out the waterfalls, I kept driving up the same highway that cuts through the forest and hopped on the Blue Ridge Parkway. I didn’t follow signs or have a plan—I just drove until I saw a dedicated overlook and pulled over. I went up there to take some photos.
The views were wide open. You can see the layers of the Blue Ridge Mountains stretching out for miles. There are tons of pull-offs where you can stop, park, and get a clean look without stepping far from your car. No crowds when I went. I parked, shot a few photos, and kept moving. Simple stop. Solid view.
Stopping at the Pisgah National Forest Visitor Center
The Pisgah National Forest Visitor Center—worth a stop for maps, info, and gear patches.
I always stop at the visitor centers. You get real info from people who know the place. The Pisgah National Forest Visitor Center is right near the entrance, and it’s worth the stop.
I picked up a few patches for my collection—I grab one from every national park and forest I visit—and talked with a ranger who gave me the scoop on the local snake scene. Didn’t expect that, but I’ll take it.
Driving Through Asheville, Stopping in Weaverville
On the way to visit an old friend in Weaverville, NC, I drove through downtown Asheville just to get a look. I didn’t stop—just looped through—but it was enough to see the vibe. Artsy, a little chaotic, and full of that hippy energy Asheville’s known for.
Weaverville was a different scene. Smaller, more local, and honestly pretty charming. We had dinner at a small wine café called Maggie B’s Wine & Specialty Store. It was cool to see how people live just outside the city—slower pace, more space, and still close to everything.
Final Thought
I came here to ride—that’s always the main thing. But I also like to get a feel for the parks and forests themselves. Waterfalls, overlooks, visitor centers—they tell you something about the place too. If you’ve got some daylight left after a ride or need a break from the bike, these are good stops to mix in.
→ Also read:
Mountain Biking Pisgah National Forest: A Week of Trails, Waterfalls & Riding from Horse Shoe, NC
