United States · US
Greybeard Trail
Graybeard Trail is a strenuous but deeply rewarding hike near the small mountain community of Montreat, North Carolina, about 20 miles east of Asheville. The trail climbs 2,400 feet through hardwood forest and rocky creek crossings to the summit of Graybeard Mountain, where views open across the Black Mountains — a chain of 6,000-foot-plus peaks known locally as the Seven Sisters. The route passes two major scenic waypoints — Walker's Knob, a rocky outcrop with sweeping southern and western panoramas, and Graybeard Mountain's own summit overlook, widely considered one of the best fall-foliage vantage points in western North Carolina. A short spur off the main trail also leads to Graybeard Falls, a modest but lovely slide waterfall along the creek. As of late 2025, the trail is closed due to storm damage from Hurricane Helene; hikers should check current conditions before planning a trip.