Driving directions**: From the college, drive right on Broad Street for several miles until you get to the Pisgah Forest intersection (near the Wal-Mart store). Turn left into Pisgah Forest (Route 276N). Continue for about 15-18 miles until you come to the intersection for the Blue Ridge Parkway. Get on the parkway heading south (away from Asheville) and continue 10 miles on the Parkway to a parking lot on the left (it will be just past a tunnel). Devils Courthouse is actually a rock formation and the view at the top is spectacular year-round (especially in the in the fall). The Blue Ridge Parkway is closed during winter snow and ice periods.

Hiking directions for a hike to the top (Devils Courthouse): The hike is only 0.8 miles in each direction, but the climb up is very steep. The trail to the top is about 20 minutes plus (depending on how much you stop to catch your breath or rest on one of the benches along the way). It is a very steep walk, but at the top there are spectacular panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and views of 4 states. To begin, follow the paved path which follows the parkway (for 0.1 miles), then head up a very steep, paved hiking path for the first 60% of the hike. Then follow a gravel path (where it is not quite as steep) as you continue to the viewpoint at the top. Bring your camera. Return back the same way you came.

  The hike will take you to the rock formation you see in the distance in this photograph. The views are always spectacular, but should be really great when the leaves are turning.

• *As always, when hiking you should always:
• Hike with someone
• Let others know where you are going and when you expect to return
• Wear appropriate footwear and clothing (carry rain gear)
• Carry water (and snacks)
• Have a map of the area (available downtown at the Forest Place or at Dolly’s ice cream shop (at the corner of 64, 276 and 280, near Wal-Mart)

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