Pisgah National Forest

One of America's first national forests, Pisgah spans over 500,000 acres, set entirely in North Carolina. It was the site of the country's first school of forestry, but these days it's better known as a terrific place for hiking, fishing, rock climbing, water activities and mountain biking. There are hundreds of miles of trails passing by whitewater rivers and waterfalls. Hikers wanting a deeper experience should try out Mountains-to-the-Sea Trail or the Shut-In Trail. If you're going on two wheels, leave Farlow Gap to the experts!