A short, quiet hike on the edge of town.

Whether you're camping at the Davidson River Campground, or a local looking to break up a monotonous afternoon, this is an excellent short hike less than a 5-minute drive from the entrance of Pisgah National Forest. Bring the entire family along, including the dog, and enjoy the lush, serene flora that blanket the mountainside. Though close to town, Johnson Mountain separates the cove from town and this loop has a much more remote feel than you would imagine.

The hike can be characterized into two portions. If hiked clockwise, you begin with a steady climb that follows Starnes Branch upward into the cove. The trail crosses it multiple times, but most can be tackled without getting your feet wet. Beautiful mountain laurel and rhododendron line the path as well and are particularly spectacular in the spring and summer. Large hemlock trees are also prevalent along this stretch.

Keep right at the junction with Grassy Road Trail. The return portion of the hike hugs the contours of the mountain and offers some seasonal views of nearby peaks - including Pilot Mountain. As you hike, enjoy the vast selection of flora and fauna that blanket the trail, especially near the top of the ridge. Much of the area was logged in the early 1900's and now defined by a new growth hardwood forest.

Sources:
https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recreation/recarea/?recid=48338&actid=50
https://www.hikewnc.info/trails/davidson-river/sycamore-cove Written by Brendon Voelker

Top Sports

Sycamore Cove

Hiking Trail

Route and Elevation