Little Bearwallow Mountain via Wildcat Rock | An Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Hike and Trailhead Closure

Our Favorite Western NC Mountain Hikes | Asheville Elevated Living

This climb in Upper Hickory Nut Gorge packs a lot into five miles. On the saved route, the highlights are Little Bearwallow Falls, the rock steps to Wildcat Rock and the ridgeline near Little Bearwallow Mountain.

Little Bearwallow Mountain via Wildcat Rock main trail photo — Photos via AllTrails and its hiking community.

Hike at a glance

Upper Hickory Nut Gorge near Gerton
5 miles | 1,627 feet of gain | Hard out-and-back | 3 to 3.5 hours when accessible

What the hike is like

Conserving Carolina says the lower Wildcat Rock trailhead is closed because of road restrictions following Helene. The AllTrails route starts at that closed trailhead, so save it for a future visit and check the official notice before planning a trip.

When access returns, the route climbs past Little Bearwallow Falls toward the Wildcat Rock overlook, then continues toward Little Bearwallow Mountain. Expect steep stone steps and rougher footing beyond the overlook. The gorge and the ridgeline feel like two different hikes within the same outing.

Before you go

Conserving Carolina allows an out-and-back on the upper portion of Wildcat Rock Trail from the summit of Bearwallow Mountain. That is a different route. Use the official map and approved approach to Bearwallow and respect the lower closure.