Parks and forests

	Transylvania County

State Parks
and
Forests

DuPont State Forest is more than 10,000 acres of forest, trails, and waterfalls between Hendersonville and Brevard, North Carolina.

Plunging waterfalls, rugged river gorges, sheer rock walls and one of the greatest concentrations of rare and unique species in the eastern United States are found within Gorges State Park. An elevation that rises 2,000
feet in only four miles, combined with rainfall in excess of 80 inches per year, creates a temperate rain forest and supports a collection of waterfalls.

On April 29, 1999, thanks to a unique partnership of industry, the environmental community and the state of North Carolina, 10,000 acres of the Jocassee Gorges in Transylvania County were placed in public ownership to be preserved for future generations of North Carolinians. The property was purchased by the state from Duke
Energy Corporation, and the transaction created a 2,900-acre gameland managed by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission and a 7,100-acre state park — North Carolina's newest state park and our first state park west of Asheville.

Caesar's Head

Caesars Head, along with Jones Gap State Park and other wildlife preserves in upper Greenville County, create the protected Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area. With more than 50 miles of easy to strenuous hiking trails dotted by trailside camping, visitors to Caesars Head can avail themselves of majestic Blue Ridge Mountain panoramas in the verdant, secluded valleys of the area. Marvel at the beauty of Raven Cliff Falls, the excitement of mountain river fishing in the Middle Saluda, or just enjoy the sights and sounds of abundant wildlife during a picnic outing with family and friends.

Holmes Educational State Forest

Holmes Educational State Forest, a unique outdoors experience! Holmes is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains. With rugged terrain, numerous rock outcroppings, and scenic vistas, it also offers a rich mixture of mountain hardwoods, rhododendron, flame azaleas, and a variety of wildflowers.These features are accessible by a series of well-marked trails which are accented by exhibits and displays depicting the ecology of the managed forest.

Pisgah National Forest

The Pisgah National Forest's 501,691 acres stretches across the eastern edge of Western North Carolina's mountains. The Forest offers hiking trails, fishing, camping, picnic sites, and spectacular waterfalls. Some of Pisgah National Forest's attractions include Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, Pisgah Forest State Fish Hatchery, Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education, The Cradle of Forestry and the North Mills River Recreational Area. Pisgah National Forest features some of the most beautiful and rugged mountain scenery, and the best recreational opportunities in eastern North America.

last updated May, 2007