Hike to and Climb Pickens Nose

Otto, NC
4.8
6 Reviews
Hike to and Climb Pickens Nose
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Details

Distance
1.5 miles
Elevation Gain
200 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back

Features

Scenic
Forest
Easy Parking
Wildflowers
Dog Friendly
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Directions
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About this place

Added by Dwayne Parton

A short hike to rock outcroppings offering beautiful views of the Appalachian Mountains, climbing, and plenty of places to relax.

From the parking area (fits about 6 cars) follow the trail on the same side of the road up the ridge through dense rhododendron. Several spur trails branch off of the main trail and lead to rock outcroppings with excellent views.

Getting to the parking area is slow. The narrow gravel road winds up the mountain and maybe a little washed out with deep ruts that could make traveling with a car difficult. You may want to bring an SUV, or Truck to prevent bottoming out.

There are numerous photo opportunities especially in Autumn. Pickens Nose is at 4,880 ft and has views in multiple directions.

The climbing areas are towards the end of trail. There are several granite walls to climb ranging from 5.7 - 5.11+ trad, sport, and top rope. It's a surprisingly fun place to climb with plenty of shade and clean routes.

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
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Adam Lentz
12/8/2018
Beautiful views!!!
The drive up the mountain is about 8 miles of winding road. I went during early December and only saw one other ...
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Jayme Casey
9/23/2018
Nice short hike, great view, long drive
The view and the hike are great, and the road is well-maintained.
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Taylor Waddell
7/14/2017
Awesome Sauce
Semi-easy shaded hike through mossy rock and flowery rhododendrons. The trail peels off into three or four amazing rocky over looks. Easily one of ...
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Adeline Horton
6/24/2017
Favorite Hike
I've hiked in several places, from the Rockies to up and down the AT & Pickens Nose truly took my breath away. Despite many ...
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Christian Murillo
5/23/2017
Short Hike, Killer Views
The hike to Pickens Nose is short and sweet. Once you get to the top of the mountain, you wont see any signs ...
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Bruce Kretschmer
7/28/2016
Stunning!
Stopped here for a late afternoon hike looking for a place to watch sunset, unbelievable views and photo opportunities. Need a truck to get ...
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