The sweeping views from the summit make
this strenuous trail worth the effort
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Difficulty (1-5):
Distance (round trip):
Elevation change:
Summit:
Trail time:
Driving time:
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5
6.2 miles
1,700 feet
3,969 ft.
3-4 hours
2 hours (round trip)
From the summit of Looking Glass Rock--and just below the summit
at Upper Looking Glass Cliffs--the sweeping views of the Shining
Rock Wilderness are breathtaking. That is, if you have any breath
after the 3-mile, 1,700-ft ascent. (Just kidding: the trail isn't as bad as
it sounds. The many switchbacks along the way make it a bit longer
but the ascent more gradual).
At the top the view includes Cedar Rock, the Pink Beds area and the
Blue Ridge Parkway.
Copyright 2011 by Tony Austin
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From the parking area, the trail starts to the left and follows along a
stream. Soon you encounter the switchbacks and they take you into
and out of stands of rhododendrons and laurel.
After a couple of miles you'll come to a flat area that's used as a
helipad for rescuing injured rock climbers. Bear right on the main
trail (yellow blazes) and continue to the summit. The views are
limited here but continue left and descend a little to reach Upper
Looking Glass Cliffs. The views from here are spectacular:
There is no guard rail. Stay back from the edge.
Return the same way you come. Going down should take about half
the time it took to come up.
Directions to trailhead: From Lake Toxaway, go to Brevard. Proceed
through town and turn left onto Hwy 276 west. Follow the signs for Pisgah
National Forest. Go 5.3 miles. Turn left at the intersection with FR 475, at
the sign for the Center for Wildlife Education. Look for a parking area 0.5
miles on the right.
Don't shy away from the trail because of the rating. It's worth the effort.