Davidson River

Looking Glass Falls

Our first trip to the Land of Waterfalls took us to one of the coolest small towns in the nation. Brevard, N.C. is ranked number two on Yahoo's Top Ten Coolest Small Towns in America and has been touted as 'the gateway to outdoor recreation in the Southeast'. This artsy little town is situated at the southernmost entrance to the Pisgah National Forest and provides easy access to some of this nation's most beautiful wilderness areas.

The Davidson River is a beautiful rock-strewn mountain stream that flows on either side of scenic byway US-276 and it is home to some of the area's most beautiful waterfalls. The iconic Looking Glass Falls, is located just North of Davidson River Campground and is one of the area's most photographed attractions. The trailhead to Moore Cove Falls, considered by some to be the best hike in the area, is located a few miles further North, as is Sliding Rock Falls, a natural water slide that will propel a full-grown man 60 ft. into a deep, cool pool at its base.

The Davidson River Area and Pisgah National Forest are home to The Cradle of Forestry in America. The 6,500-acre Cradle of Forestry Historic Site was established by Congress in 1968 and contains the nation's first official school of forestry. Biltmore Forest School opened its doors in 1898 and for 15 years taught students the science and business of forestry, eventually producing over 300 foresters; the forefathers of modern forestry in America.

We stayed at Davidson River Campground, just north of Brevard and within the confines of the Pisgah. It is conveniently located and provides easy access to nearly all the area hiking trails. Many of the 161 sites are open year-round, and many are on the river; an outdoor playground in its own right. Facilities include: flush toilets, hot showers, and an amphitheater.

Be aware that due to its convenient location, Davidson River Campground tends to draw large crowds during the late spring and summer months. Fortunately, camping is allowed anywhere on National Forest property, except within 500' of a road or in a designated closed area. In fact, you will likely see a few make-shift sites along some of the trails in the area. You are free to utilize these sites if they are unoccupied.

In addition to its many waterfalls, The Davidson River Area provides access to a variety of activities for the outdoor enthusiast. It is the quintessential wilderness playground for the hiker, mountain biker, backpacker, rock climber, photographer, and fisherman. In fact, it's been said that the Davidson River produces more pounds of trout per mile than any other river in N.C. and it consistently produces trophy Browns and Rainbows. If you ever have the opportunity to explore the area ...take it! You will not be disappointed.

Head North on NC-276 from Brevard, N.C. The Davidson River Area is North of the intersection of US-64, NC-280, and NC-276.


Hike On!