Numerous switchbacks may tempt you to take shortcuts, but this causes a great amount of damage and erosion, so please stay on the trail. As you climb you will notice changing forest types as the soils become drier and less fertile. Table mountain pine seems to grow out of solid rock in some places. After two miles a spur trail to the left affords a beautiful view, and is a good destination for those people who decide not to go all the way to the top. The last mile is steep, and the view seems to come from nowhere as the: trail tops out and you gaze across a wide valley to high balds and the Blue Ridge Parkway in the distance.

From the Pisgah Ranger Station, go 3 miles north on U.S. Highway. 276 and turn left onto FS Road 475, the road to the State fish hatchery. The trailhead is on the right after about 0.5 mile. Parking is available for 15 vehicles in a paved lot.

This popular trail receives heavy use throughout the summer and the autumn color season. It requires a constant climb all of the way up, so make sure you are in good physical condition before tackling this trail.