Kitsuma Peak Trailhead — Attraction in North Carolina

A nice trail, within Pisgah National Forest, that runs from Black Mountain down to Old Fort. From the Black Mountain side, the trail starts off easy with a gentle climb alongside Interstate 40 for about 0.3 miles before turning steep. After another 0.7 miles, and about 12 switchbacks, you'll reach the top of Kitsuma Peak (3,159 feet). Note - There's a nice little outcropping and view on your way up to Kitsuma Peak. The complete trail (to Old Fort) is about 4.5 miles. The first mile gets you to the top of Kitsuma, then it's rolling hills of another 0.7 miles before a long descent (about 2.8 miles) to Old Fort Picnic Area. I made a big loop taking Point Lookout Trail the way back up which requires some walking along Mill Creek Road...

Not for the light hearted. Visited the area and gave this trail a run. Took us 3 hours to do the entire loop, starting at the parking lot at the top. The first 30 mins is a matter of mind over quitting :). Once you hit the summit of this trail, the downhill is fast and can be rough for a hardtail, but still pretty amazing. At the picnic area, your take the first right and find yourself on an hour slog back to the parking lot. It was a long ~10 miles...

Amazing hike. Worth it in all seasons to see at the “secret” overlook (i see a few pics of the “decoy one” posted lol).

Amazing views especially the rolling Mountains, where I got centered spiritually and started on my weight loss journey (diet is more important than exercise though) & lost over 160 pounds so far.

Attaching a picture of...