Devils Courthouse Hike on Blue Ridge Parkway

Intriguing name, spectacular sunsets

From the parking area at Devil’s Courthouse Blue Ridge Parkway, you can see your destination above you: an imposing rock outcropping that dares you to climb it. Rise to the challenge: from atop this edifice, you’ll have the world at your feet, with views to the north, south and west. After all, the summit of Devil's Courthouse is at 5,720 feet.

The area is said to have gotten its nickname because the features of the rocks resembled a menacing face or because legend holds the devil held court in the cave that lies beneath the rock. According to Cherokee legend, the cave is the private dancing chamber and dwelling place of the giant, Judaculla.

LEAVE NO TRACE TIP

Peregrine falcons have long made their nests on the cliffs beyond the overlook wall. Sadly, more and more birds have abandoned their nests likely due to people climbing over the safety wall into their habitat. Stay within designated trail areas to protect this threatened species.

What to Expect 

When you pull into the Devil’s Courthouse overlook, you’ll find a paved parking lot that’s unlikely to be full. From here, you can see the striking rock outcropping looming above you.

Most of this trail is paved. But, it’s steep and uphill with no flat or level breaks. Toward the end (when the trail enters a forested area), the pavement ends. Here there’s a spur trail that connects to the Mountains to Sea Trail going to the left. Continue up the Devil’s Courthouse Trail to the right and follow it to the overlook. Photo credit: @brookandholler

Stay on the trail and do not climb over the rock wall of the overlook. The area beyond the overlook is a fragile nesting area for Peregrine Falcons. 

On a clear day, the summit will offer you views into Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee. There are bronze plaques that help you identify what you’re seeing. It's a great spot for watching the sunset! 

Directions

From downtown, take I-240 West to I-26 East. Take Exit 33 (marked Blue Ridge Parkway-Brevard Road-Hwy 191). Turn left (south) onto Highway 191 and go 2.1 miles, passing brown signs for Blue Ridge Parkway and NC Arboretum. Turn right at the entrance to The North Carolina Arboretum and follow signs for the Blue Ridge Parkway. Turn south on the parkway to Milepost 422, then continue .4 mile beyond that.

Know Before You Go

The trail is steep, especially the final stretch to the summit. Despite the steepness, this is a trail that most children and those with a reasonable level of fitness can accomplish. Bring a jacket with you as the wide, rocky outcropping at the top is exposed to wind and the elements. 

GPS Coordinates
35.305131, -82.899732

We all love the Blue Ridge Mountains! By working together, we can keep these incredible outdoor spaces beautiful and pristine for years to come. Make it your nature to Leave No Trace: Leave what you find, pack out what you pack in, stay on designated trails and plan ahead. To learn more about the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace, CLICK HERE >>.