Experience the Beauty of Lookout Trail Just Minutes from Asheville
If you’re looking for a quick escape into nature without straying too far from downtown Asheville, Lookout Trail in Montreat should definitely be on your radar! In just about 25 minutes, you can leave the hustle and bustle of the city and find yourself standing at the trailhead, ready for an invigorating hike.
The Journey Begins
As you embark on your adventure, you’ll notice that the trailhead is easy to spot, marked by a charming wooden sign that provides an area map and essential information. It’s important to remember that while the trail is well-loved and frequented by many visitors throughout the year, several old paths have been closed due to erosion. So, it’s vital to stay on the marked trails to help preserve this beautiful environment.
The first part of the trail offers gentle slopes that gradually lead into steeper terrain. After a short while, you’ll cross over the wide and flat Old Trestle Road. Here’s a pro tip: keep straight ahead instead of veering left or right on the road to stay on the path to Lookout Mountain.
Your Effort Will Be Rewarded
As you make your way up the upper part of the trail, you’ll encounter some rocky patches—think rough roots and steep wooden steps that may require a little scrambling. But don’t fret! The challenging sections are all part of the fun, and the stunning views that await you will be well worth the effort.
Upon reaching the top, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking panorama of the Seven Sisters, a stunning collection of peaks that will leave you in awe. The designated stopping point, Lookout Rock, marks the official end of the trail, but for the more adventurous souls, a little extra scrambling will take you even higher to the ridge where you can soak in even more of that majestic scenery.
Extend Your Adventure
Feeling adventurous? You can make your hike even longer by connecting to other trails. The quick and scenic Hickory Ridge Trail begins at the ridge top and connects to several other beautiful hiking paths. To help with your wild wanderings, swing by the Montreat Store located at the Moore Center, which distributes free paper maps of the trail system every day. Located conveniently at the intersection of Assembly Drive and Lookout Road, it’s the perfect pit stop for planning an adventurous day in the mountains.
Getting There
Getting to Lookout Trail is a breeze! Just take I-240 East from downtown Asheville, then merge onto I-40 East towards Statesville. After a scenic ride, take exit 64 Black Mountain (Route 9). Turn left off the ramp and follow Route 9 right into Montreat, passing through a picturesque stone gate. Keep going on Assembly Drive until you reach Lake Susan. At the lake, take a left onto Lookout Road. As you drive along, just keep your eyes peeled for the parking area on your right, about half a mile down the road. Just a heads-up, parking can be a bit limited, so remember to park responsibly and keep the gates clear.
Respect the Nature
Looking to make your hike even more enjoyable? Remember, it’s up to all of us to keep these stunning trails clean and pristine. Practice leaving no trace by taking only memories and leaving only footprints. Stay on designated paths, pack out what you pack in, and leave the surroundings just as beautiful for the next visitor.
Enjoying Your Time in Asheville
With the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains at your fingertips, Lookout Trail is a fantastic choice for nature lovers! It doesn’t matter what season you choose to visit; each trip holds unique spots of beauty. Kick off your Asheville adventure today, and who knows, the next time we hear of someone basking in the trails, it might just be you!
