Upcoming Hike on Tuesday, November 11:
Bearwallow Mountain
Holy Hikers at Bearwallow in April 2022
On Veterans Day, November 11, Holy Hikers will venture to the summit of Bearwallow Mountain. During our liturgy, hikers are encouraged to consider sharing about the military experience of a family member or friend that you would like to honor. We will also give thanks for First Responders and Military that assisted during Hurricane Helene and the many wildfires that affected this area.
At 4232 feet above sea level, Bearwallow Mountain offers a nearly 360-degree view that includes Mt. Mitchell, Hickory Nut Gorge, and Henderson County. The high pasture adjoins the site of a NC Fire Tower. The trail and entire area sustained significant damage during Hurricane Helene, but with the hard work of Conserving Carolina staff and volunteers, this summit trail has reopened while adjoining trails remain closed.
The 2.3-mile loop hike is rated moderate and involves an elevation gain of 587 feet. The well-maintained path and logging road do not require any special hiking equipment. The summit may be quite windy so pack cold weather gear as well as water and lunch. Dogs are allowed, but they must remain on leash at all times.
This hike is located 19.5 miles from St. John in the Wilderness. The address is 4854 County Road 1594, Hendersonville, NC 28792. See below for directions. Meet at the trailhead at 11:00am, or meet at St. John in the Wilderness for carpool at 10:10am. Please register by clicking the button below.
Directions from St. John in the Wilderness
Head east on Rutledge Drive and turn left onto Greenville Highway, towards Pinecrest Presbyterian.
Turn right onto N Highland Lake Road at the light.
Stay on N Highland Lake as it turns into Upward Road.
Turn left to merge onto I-26 W towards Asheville.
Take exit 49A to merge onto US-64 E/Chimney Rock Road towards Bat Cave.
In 1.9 miles, use the left two lanes to turn left onto Fruitland Road.
In 3.1 miles, continue straight onto Old Clear Creek Road.
In 1.4 miles, take a slight left to stay on Old Clear Creek Road.
In 1.9 miles, turn left onto Bearwallow Mountain Road.
In 2.5 miles, turn right to stay on Bearwallow Mountain Road.
In 1.2 miles, take a sharp right to stay on Bearwallow Mountain Road.
In 1.2 miles, the trailhead will be on the right. Parking is available on either side of the road.