
Bearwallow Mountain
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views from the open summit bald of Bearwallow Mountain, a rewarding hike with scenic drives.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, vibrant foliage

Bearwallow Mountain
Best Time
Crisp air, vibrant foliage

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views from the open summit bald of Bearwallow Mountain, a rewarding hike with scenic drives.
"The views from the top are absolutely incredible, making the hike totally worth it!"

🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Bearwallow Mountain trails are generally dog-friendly, offering a great option for hikers with pets.
🚗 4WD Recommended
Some bearwallow jeep trails and access roads can be rough. A 4WD vehicle is advisable for better navigation.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Summit Bald
Summit
Expansive, open field at the top offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. Perfect for picnics and photos.

Bearwallow Mountain Road
Access Road
A scenic drive with potential for off-roading adventures. Offers glimpses of the mountain's rugged beauty and varied terrain.

Grand Highlands at Bearwallow
Base Area
A developing community offering a unique perspective on mountain living, with potential for events and scenic overlooks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trailhead Access & Conditions
Best Time for Views & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hike like Strawberry Gap but dog friendly.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Bearwallow Mountain trails are generally dog-friendly, offering a great option for hikers with pets.
🚗 4WD Recommended
Some bearwallow jeep trails and access roads can be rough. A 4WD vehicle is advisable for better navigation.
Looking for a 3-4 mile mountainous hike to hit on our way to Asheville from Charlotte (black mountain area?). Any recommendations for something east of Asheville?
🗺️ Download Trail Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Download your bear wallow trail map offline before heading out.
☀️ Pack for Sun
The summit bald is exposed. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails
Bearwallow Mountain trails are generally dog-friendly, offering a great option for hikers with pets.
🚗 4WD Recommended
Some bearwallow jeep trails and access roads can be rough. A 4WD vehicle is advisable for better navigation.
🗺️ Download Trail Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Download your bear wallow trail map offline before heading out.
☀️ Pack for Sun
The summit bald is exposed. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bearwallow Mountain for its stunning panoramic views from the summit bald and the rewarding hiking experience. The accessibility for dogs is a significant plus for many. However, some find the road conditions challenging, and the lack of amenities can be a drawback for unprepared visitors.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main bearwallow trailhead is accessible via Bearwallow Mountain Road. Depending on your starting point, GPS navigation is recommended. Some users suggest a 4WD vehicle for the best experience on the bearwallow mountain road.
Yes, besides the main trailhead, there are various bearwallow jeep trails and access points, some leading to different parts of the mountain. Researching the bear wallow trail map is key to finding the best route for you.
Bearwallow Mountain reaches an elevation of approximately 4,200 feet. This contributes to the cooler temperatures and stunning panoramic views from the summit.
Parts of Bearwallow Mountain Road are paved, but it transitions to gravel and can become rougher in sections, especially as you ascend. A higher clearance or 4WD vehicle is often recommended.
Yes, Bearwallow Mountain is accessible from Asheville, NC. The drive typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific route and traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, there are no specific permits required for general hiking on Bearwallow Mountain. However, always check local regulations before your visit, as policies can change.
Generally, there are no entrance fees for accessing the hiking trails and summit of Bearwallow Mountain. Parking at the main trailhead is usually free.
Bearwallow Mountain is typically open from dawn to dusk for public access. There are no set operating hours for the natural landscape itself.
Yes, Grand Highlands at Bearwallow Mountain is a venue that hosts events, including weddings. It's advisable to contact them directly for availability and packages.
While official maps might be limited, many hikers share unofficial bear wallow trail maps online or on hiking apps. Downloading an offline map from a reliable source is highly recommended.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to the summit bald is the most popular, offering rewarding views. Many also enjoy exploring the various bearwallow jeep trails for a more rugged adventure.
Basic facilities like parking are available at the main trailhead. However, there are typically no restrooms or water sources, so come prepared.
The main trail to the summit is moderately challenging due to some elevation gain. Beginners might find it strenuous but achievable, especially if they take breaks.
You might encounter common forest wildlife such as deer, various bird species, and smaller mammals. Always maintain a safe distance and do not feed the animals.
Dispersed camping might be possible in designated areas, but it's crucial to check local land management regulations. Official campgrounds are not typically found directly on the mountain.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit bald offers unparalleled 360-degree views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The winding bearwallow mountain road also provides scenic photo opportunities.
Absolutely. The open summit and rolling hills provide excellent opportunities for landscape photography, particularly with the changing seasons.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour is particularly magical here.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or land managers regarding drone usage to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a vehicle with decent ground clearance if you plan to explore some of the rougher bearwallow jeep trails. Downloading an offline bear wallow trail map is crucial for navigation, ensuring you don't get lost. The drive up the bearwallow mountain road can also be an adventure in itself, offering scenic overlooks that kids will enjoy.
🚗 Off-Road Enthusiasts
Familiarize yourself with a bear wallow trail map that details these off-road routes. Be prepared for potential mud, rocks, and steep inclines. The bearwallow mountain road itself can also be an adventure, transitioning from paved to gravel and becoming more rugged as you ascend. Always prioritize safety and know your vehicle's capabilities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Bearwallow Mountain Trails
When planning your hike, consider the bearwallow mountain elevation of around 4,200 feet. This means temperatures can be cooler than in the surrounding valleys, and weather can change rapidly. Packing layers is essential. The bearwallow mountain road itself is a scenic drive, but be prepared for unpaved and potentially rough sections, especially as you gain altitude. Many visitors opt for SUVs or trucks for easier navigation.
For dog owners, Bearwallow Mountain is a great destination as most trails are dog friendly. Remember to keep your pets leashed and clean up after them. The open summit is perfect for dogs to roam safely (under supervision), similar to the experience described for Strawberry Gap.
Experiencing Grand Highlands at Bearwallow
This area is particularly noted for its potential as a venue for special events, such as bearwallow mountain weddings. The stunning natural backdrop of the mountains provides a picturesque setting for celebrations. Visitors interested in the development can explore the area, often finding beautiful viewpoints and a sense of tranquility. It's worth noting that this is an evolving community, so amenities and accessibility may change over time.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit