Graybeard Mountain Trail | A Most Pleasant Hike | Pisgah National Forest | Montreat, North Carolina

In early August we set out to conquer Graybeard Mountain, one of Western North Carolina's preeminent 5,000-footers within the Pisgah National Forest. The summit is located near the town of Montreat and is reached through a gradual but unrelenting trail. It is the highest of the Middle Mountain peaks, known locally as the Seven Sisters. When it is consumed in cloud cover with only its summit exposed, it gives the appearance of a “gray beard” covering the mountain. About three quarters up the ascent you will find a quarter mile spur to Walker’s Knob, a stop-off that provides a view that many consider more impressive than the Graybeard summit itself. But don’t stop here. You must reach the top to declare victory over the “father” peak of the Seven Sisters.

Instagram: @crisandcale_adventures (Cris-Cale)

CONTENTS
00:00 Intro & Teaser
00:42 Map & Overview
01:33 Start from Trailhead
02:37 Drink from Stream
03:12 Bear Hunting at Potscove
03:54 A View & Railroad Path
05:35 Walker's Knob Spur
07:04 Back on Graybeard Trail
08:20 Summit View
09:04 Hike Back Down
10:16 Summary of the Trail
11:04 The Rain Comes Down

While still a popular hike, the Graybeard Trail does not have the hustle and bustle of nearby Grandfather and Mitchell. The trail uses an old narrow gauge railroad path that took trains from Black Mountain to an old logging camp just below Mount Mitchell. It is this rail trail that creates a wide path with a gentle grade, making for a simply pleasant hiking experience. Along with the tree canopy and a good dose of overlooks, there is good reason this hike is among our favorites.