Many of the trails in Pisgah National Forest still have snow and ice on them, but they are worth trekking nonetheless. The ethereal beauty of the forest in winter is maximized by the strange ice formations, white patches, long range views and amplified silence.
I headed up to the top of John's Rock recently and enjoyed the trails very nearly to myself. The more shaded areas of the trail are still a bit icy, crusty and sometimes slippery. But, with some sturdy footwear and careful stepping, you can certainly still get in a good hike or trailrun.
The views of Looking Glass from the top of Johns Rock are always worth the the uphill climb, although you definitely have to be doubly careful at the top thanks to patchy ice. It is pretty windy up there at times, so the dogs and I didn't stay long before continuing our loop over near Cat Gap and back to the Fish Hatchery.
If you are headed into Pisgah, be sure to pack layers and wear shoes built for the terrain. The temperatures on our run vacillated a good bit as we ran our loop. Gore-tex is your friend this time of year, so a GTX Mountain Masochist by Montrail is perfect for trailrunning, while the Scarpa Kailash will keep you supported and dry on the hike.
Happy Adventures!
Climb Globally, Shop Locally
Looking Glass Outfitters
69 Hendersonville Hwy
Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
828.884.5854
www.lookingglassoutfitters.com
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