Cradle of Forestry

Area Status: Temporarily Closed
Paved trail at the Cradle of Forestry

Nestled below the Blue Ridge Parkway on the Pisgah National Forest is the birthplace of forestry in America - the Cradle of Forestry.

The Cradle abounds with ways to have fun while learning about the forest, traditional Blue Ridge culture, and forest management.

Paved trails - perfect for strollers and wheelchairs - put the forest at your fingertips.

Learn about more about events, activities, and history.

At a Glance

Current Conditions: In response to the widespread damage caused by Hurricane Helene, all recreation sites on the Pisgah and Nantahala remain closed until hazardous conditions improve and assessments can be completed.
Operational Hours: ​Open daily, 10 a.m to 5 p.m. until mid November Free entry day every 4th Tuesday of the month Open seasonally, spring to fall, visit Cradle of Forestry website for dates. 
Area Amenities: Interpretive Site, Accessible, Fee charged for some activities, Toilets, Drinking water, Parking
Fees:
  • $8.00 regular admission
  • $4.00 youth admission (ages 5 to 12)
  • Free for children age 4 and under
  • Half price for America the Beautiful annual and lifetime passholders and up to three guests.
  • FREE for Friends of the Cradle of Forestry and 4th Grade Every Kid in a Park passes
*Exceptions to general admission are for some special events such as: In Search of Blue Ghosts Firefly Tours, Songcatchers Music Series, and The Legend of Tommy Hodges.
Operated By: FIND Outdoors
Information Center: Phone: (828) 877-3130
Mailing Address: 49 Pisgah Highway, Suite 4, Pisgah Forest 28768

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Mountain Biking

Recreation areas with activity Mountain Biking:

Day Hiking

Recreation areas with activity Day Hiking:

Visitor Programs

Recreation areas with activity Visitor Programs:

Interpretive Areas

Recreation areas with activity Interpretive Areas:

Visitor Centers

Recreation areas with activity Visitor Centers:

The Cradle of Forestry offers hands-on learning experiences in a forest environment.

Explore the Forest Discovery Center, join guided activities or go outside and walk the Biltmore Campus, Forest Festival or Discovery trails.

Picnicking

Recreation areas with activity Picnicking: