Bearwallow Mountain
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Bearwallow Mountain

4.6
·491k reviews·, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Crisp air, vibrant foliage

CrowdLow
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Bearwallow Mountain

Bearwallow Mountain

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Crisp air, vibrant foliage

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The views from the top are absolutely incredible, making the hike totally worth it!"

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TIP

🐾 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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Summit Bald

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

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

Grand Highlands at Bearwallow

Base Area

A developing community offering a unique perspective on mountain living, with potential for events and scenic overlooks.

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Planning Your Visit

Trailhead Access & Conditions

Bearwallow Mountain offers multiple access points, with the main trailhead being a popular starting point. Check recent conditions, especially after rain, as some sections can become muddy or challenging for standard vehicles. Consider a 4WD for certain routes. Reddit

Best Time for Views & Crowds

For the best panoramic views, aim for clear days. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer visitors. Weekends can get busy, so weekdays are ideal if you prefer a quieter experience on the bear wallow trail. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Crisp air, vibrant foliage
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, good light
Crowd
Low
When
Clear Summer days
Why
Best visibility for views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

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. Reddit

🚗 4WD Recommended

Some bearwallow jeep trails and access roads can be rough. A 4WD vehicle is advisable for better navigation. Reddit

reddit.com

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. Reddit

☀️ Pack for Sun

The summit bald is exposed. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Dog-Friendly Trails

Bearwallow Mountain trails are generally dog-friendly, offering a great option for hikers with pets. Reddit

🚗 4WD Recommended

Some bearwallow jeep trails and access roads can be rough. A 4WD vehicle is advisable for better navigation. Reddit

🗺️ Download Trail Maps

Cell service can be spotty. Download your bear wallow trail map offline before heading out. Reddit

☀️ Pack for Sun

The summit bald is exposed. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Spectacular summit views
Dog-friendly trails
Scenic mountain drives

What People Dislike

Rough road conditions
Limited facilities

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Bearwallow Mountain reaches an elevation of approximately 4,200 feet. This contributes to the cooler temperatures and stunning panoramic views from the summit. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

Generally, there are no entrance fees for accessing the hiking trails and summit of Bearwallow Mountain. Parking at the main trailhead is usually free. Reddit

Bearwallow Mountain is typically open from dawn to dusk for public access. There are no set operating hours for the natural landscape itself. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. Reddit

Basic facilities like parking are available at the main trailhead. However, there are typically no restrooms or water sources, so come prepared. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit bald offers unparalleled 360-degree views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The winding bearwallow mountain road also provides scenic photo opportunities. Reddit

Absolutely. The open summit and rolling hills provide excellent opportunities for landscape photography, particularly with the changing seasons. Reddit

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour is particularly magical here. Reddit

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or land managers regarding drone usage to ensure compliance. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bearwallow Mountain offers a rewarding experience for families, especially with its dog-friendly trails. The hike to the summit bald is manageable for most active children, providing a great sense of accomplishment. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are limited. The open summit is a fantastic place for kids to explore and enjoy the expansive views. Reddit

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

For those who love to explore off the beaten path, the bearwallow jeep trails are a major draw. These routes offer challenging terrain and the opportunity to discover less-traveled parts of the mountain. A 4WD vehicle with good ground clearance is highly recommended, and it's wise to go with a buddy or inform someone of your plans. Reddit

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

Bearwallow Mountain offers a network of trails catering to various skill levels. The most popular route leads to the summit bald, a wide-open meadow with stunning panoramic views. This trail involves a moderate climb and can be completed in a few hours. For those seeking more adventure, the bearwallow jeep trails provide a more rugged experience, often requiring 4WD vehicles. These trails can lead to different vantage points and more secluded areas of the mountain. It's always wise to consult a bear wallow trail map before you go, as cell service can be unreliable in the area. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Experiencing Grand Highlands at Bearwallow

Grand Highlands at Bearwallow Mountain represents a vision for mountain living, offering a unique community experience. While not a traditional tourist attraction, it's a significant feature of the Bearwallow Mountain landscape. The development aims to blend residential living with the natural beauty of the area, providing residents and visitors with access to scenic vistas and outdoor activities. Reddit

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. Reddit

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