Bearwallow Mountain Loop

The trailhead for the Bearwallow Mountain Loop is easily accessible. There is a dedicated parking area available at the base of the mountain, providing convenient access to both the hiking trail and the gravel access road.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. You can bring your canine companion along to enjoy the views and exercise. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash, especially since the mountaintop is part of a working farm with grazing cattle.

The trail offers a unique experience throughout the year. Spring brings wildflowers, summer features grazing cows, fall boasts vibrant colors, and winter provides expansive long-range views. While the gravel road usually remains open year-round, the dedicated hiking trail can be closed in winter due to freeze-thaw conditions. For jogging, spring through fall generally offers the most pleasant conditions.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Bearwallow Mountain Loop. The land is privately owned but protected by a conservation easement, allowing public access for recreation.

The loop offers varied terrain. One option is a 1-mile hiking trail with steep switchbacks and some rock steps. The other is a gravel access road, which is slightly shorter and climbs more gently. Many joggers choose to go up one way and return the other to experience both.

The primary draw is the nearly 360-degree panoramic views from the summit, known as the View from Bearwallow Mountain. From here, you can see Mt. Mitchell, Mt. Pisgah, Hickory Nut Gorge, downtown Hendersonville, and the high country of South Carolina. You might also spot grazing cattle in the summit meadow and a historic fire lookout tower.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Bearwallow Mountain Trail and the Fire Tower Road. Smaller portions also intersect with the Wildcat Rock Trail and the Trombatore Trail.

The trail is rated as moderate. While the hiking trail portion involves a climb of around 537 to 611 feet over about one mile, which can be strenuous, the gravel road offers a less challenging ascent. Beginners with reasonable fitness can enjoy the loop, especially by utilizing the gravel road for part of the journey.

The entire loop is approximately 3.4 kilometers (2.1 miles) long. For jogging, it typically takes around 28 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the summit views.

A popular strategy is to ascend via the dedicated hiking trail, which features switchbacks and rock steps, and then descend using the gravel access road. This allows you to experience both types of terrain and enjoy a slightly different perspective on the way down.

The Bearwallow Mountain Loop is located in a natural setting, and there are no direct facilities like cafes or public restrooms at the trailhead or along the trail itself. It's advisable to plan accordingly and bring your own water and snacks. Nearby towns like Hendersonville offer various amenities.