Bad Fork Valley Overlook – Looking Glass Falls loop from Pisgah Forest Access
Bad Fork Valley Overlook – Looking Glass Falls loop from Pisgah Forest Access
4.8
(1748)
15,731
riders
Bad Fork Valley Overlook – Looking Glass Falls loop from Pisgah Forest Access
07:43
108km
1,940m
Gravel riding
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: March 30, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 95.7 km for 132 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
4.71 km
Davidson River
Highlight • River
Tip by
50.0 km
Bad Fork Valley Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
95.7 km
Looking Glass Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
95.9 km
Looking Glass Falls Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Looking Glass Falls is the perfect quick pit-stop for everyone …
Tip by
108 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
80.0 km
10.6 km
5.87 km
5.57 km
5.20 km
1.06 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
83.1 km
22.2 km
1.82 km
985 m
197 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Saturday 27 June
30°C
18°C
91 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're seeking a truly demanding gravel biking adventure in the Pisgah National Forest, the Bad Fork Valley Overlook – Looking Glass Falls loop from Pisgah Forest Access is a formidable choice. This difficult 67.3-mile (108.3 km) gravel biking route packs in an impressive 6374 feet (1943 metres) of elevation gain, requiring 7 hours and 43 minutes to complete. It's a serious undertaking for experienced riders looking for a full day in the saddle, offering a comprehensive tour of some of the region's most iconic natural features.
What to expect on Bad Fork Valley Overlook – Looking Glass Falls loop from Pisgah Forest Access
This route promises a diverse and engaging journey through the heart of Pisgah, combining gravel roads, doubletrack, and potentially some easier singletrack sections. You'll navigate through dense rhododendron forests, with the scenery constantly shifting to reveal mile-high peaks and cascading waterfalls. A major highlight is the extensive views of Looking Glass Rock, a massive granite formation that dominates the skyline, and the route passes by several impressive waterfalls. While some climbs feature steady grades, expect challenging sections with rocky bits, stream crossings, and rooted terrain that will test your bike handling skills. This is a ride for confident gravel bikers who appreciate varied terrain and significant elevation.
Planning your visit
The route starts from the Pisgah Forest Access area, which serves as a gateway to many adventures in the forest. While the Bad Fork Valley Overlook itself is a scenic stop on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the gravel biking loop primarily utilizes forest service roads and trails. For the best views of Looking Glass Rock, consider riding from late fall to early spring when the leaves are down, though autumn offers vibrant foliage. Be prepared for a long day; pack plenty of water and nutrition for the duration of the ride.
Trail details
- Distance: 67.3 miles (108.3 km)
- Elevation gain: 6374 feet (1943 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 7 hours and 43 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free