Hiking

west ridge-graybeard loop

Hiking the mountains of Western North Carolina

Located in Montreat, NC, this loop provides a very steep initial climb, a dozen great viewing points of the Asheville Watershed/Blue Ridge Parkway/Mount Mitchell area and a slippery descent along the Graybeard Stream. Access is through the Montreat stone entrance on Assembly Drive. Just past Lake Susan, the road bears to the left and becomes Graybeard Trail. Look for Big Piney Road on your left and park in the gravel pullout area. You will see the sign "Private Drive: Hikers Welcome." Allow four hours for experienced hikers and eight hours for beginners.

Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
Trail Type: Loop
Skill Level: Moderate to strenuous
Duration: 4-8 hours
Trailhead Elevation: 3,000 feet

Directions from Asheville

  1. Take I-40 E to exit 64.
  2. Turn left to get on 9 N.
  3. Continue on Assembly Dr.
  4. Continue on Graybeard Trail.
  5. Turn left on Big Piney Road.

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