Shining Rock Wilderness – Image Gallery
Shining Rock Wilderness
The Shining Rock Wilderness is a rugged and remote area of the Pisgah National Forest known for its stunning rock formations, high peaks, and dense forests.
Details
Shining Rock Wilderness
Located within the Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina, the Shining Rock Wilderness is a stunning and rugged area that covers approximately 18,500 acres. The wilderness is known for its unique rock formations, high peaks, and diverse ecosystems.Features
One of the most notable features of the Shining Rock Wilderness is the namesake Shining Rock, a large quartz outcrop that appears to shine in the sunlight. The wilderness is also home to several other impressive rock formations, including Devil's Courthouse and Black Balsam Knob. The area is crisscrossed by a network of hiking trails, including part of the famous Appalachian Trail. These trails offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making the Shining Rock Wilderness a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.Ecological Significance
The Shining Rock Wilderness is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species. The high elevations and rugged terrain create unique habitats for species such as black bears, white-tailed deer, and eastern box turtles. The area is also known for its rich plant life, including rare and endangered species such as the spreading avens and Heller's blazing star. Protecting the Shining Rock Wilderness is important for preserving these unique ecosystems and ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty of this special place. The wilderness is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, which works to balance conservation efforts with recreational use to ensure the long-term health of the area.Shining Rock Wilderness
Points of Interest
1. Shining Rock
Shining Rock is a prominent quartz outcrop located within the wilderness area. It offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a popular destination for hikers and photographers.
2. Cold Mountain
Cold Mountain is a notable peak within the Shining Rock Wilderness, known for its challenging hiking trails and breathtaking vistas. It is named after the novel by Charles Frazier and offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
3. Black Balsam Knob
Black Balsam Knob is another popular destination within the wilderness area, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The area is known for its high-altitude grassy balds, making it a unique and picturesque spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
4. Art Loeb Trail
The Art Loeb Trail is a well-known hiking trail that passes through the Shining Rock Wilderness. It offers a challenging trek through diverse terrain, including lush forests, rocky outcrops, and open meadows. The trail is a favorite among backpackers and thru-hikers looking to experience the beauty of the wilderness.
5. Ivestor Gap Trail
The Ivestor Gap Trail is another popular hiking trail within the wilderness area, known for its scenic views and diverse flora and fauna. The trail offers a relatively moderate hike that leads to picturesque waterfalls, old-growth forests, and stunning mountain vistas.
Shining Rock Wilderness – Images
Description: Cold Mountain (the title character of Charles Frazier's 1997 debut novel Cold Mountain) in the Shining Rock Wilderness area, as seen from mile marker 412 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.Photo taken with a Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ50 in Haywood County, NC, USA.
Image by Ken Thomas – Public domain – Wikimedia
Description: Rock outcropping in Shining Rock Wilderness Area, North Carolina, USA
Image by Unknown authorUnknown author – Public domain – Wikimedia
Description: Scale ca. 1:24,000; 1ʺ = .38 mile. Folded title: Shining Rock Wilderness, Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina. "Contour interval 40 ft." Includes location map. Text and illus. on verso. Available also through the Library of Congress Web site as a raster image. AACR2
Image by United States. Forest Service. Southern Region – Public domain – Wikimedia
Description: Shining Rock Wilderness under the stars
Image by AnthonyTPope – CC BY-SA 4.0 – Wikimedia
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