Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
1,000.00 ft (304.80 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
1.00 mi (1.61 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Lookout Mountain is one of the most beloved and popular hikes in the Black Mountain and Montreat area. A quick climb up to the top will reward hikers with some of the best views of the town of Montreat and the surrounding areas.

During the summer months the trail is a lush playground of wildflowers and moss. The hiking is done under a thick canopy surrounded by rhododendron. This hiking trail maintains its green and lush properties year round. The hiking trail is well maintained and clearly marked.

There is a steep incline over a rock face near the top. It should not discourage scrambling, and the reward is worth the journey. After you have finished, visit The Trailhead in Black Mountain for a delicious meal and celebrate your summit day.

This hiking trail can get a bit crowded at times.

Logistics + Planning

Current Weather: Powered by Dark Sky

Possible drizzle in the evening.
Tue
77°F
64°
Possible light rain in the afternoon and evening.
Wed
78°F
64°
Partly cloudy throughout the day.
Thu
83°F
63°
Mostly cloudy throughout the day.
Fri
82°F
64°
Possible light rain in the afternoon and evening.
Sat
77°F
65°
Partly cloudy throughout the day.
Sun
84°F
67°
Mostly cloudy throughout the day.
Mon
83°F
65°

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Great views. Great wildflowers. Lush trails.

Cons

Crowds.

Trailhead Elevation

2,621.00 ft (798.88 m)

Features

Bird watching
Wildlife
Big vistas
Old-growth forest
Wildflowers

Location

Nearby Adventures

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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