Pinetree Cascade Loop

North Carolina has some of the most tranquil landscapes in the U.S—including staggering cliffs, rushing waterfalls, towering trees, and an abundance of beautiful hikes for all skill levels. At Meraki Escape, we love sharing some perfect hikes for those visiting Western North Carolina and our beautiful state is full of them!

We're looking at an easy hike called Pinetree Cascade Loop and letting you know all the details incase you'd like to try it. The best part is, it's located close by Meraki Escape's romantic mountain cabins! So you can come home, grab a quick shower and relax with your partner and furry friend.

Trail Overview

The Pinetree Cascade Loop is a moderate 3- to 4-mile loop, depending on route variations, with an elevation gain of around 500 feet. The well-maintained trail meanders through Pisgah National Forest, offering a mix of serene woodland paths, rocky outcroppings, and picturesque water features.

What to Expect on the Trail

From the moment you step onto the trail, you’ll be immersed in the sights and sounds of nature. The first section of the loop takes hikers through a canopy of towering pine and oak trees, creating a shaded and peaceful environment. In the spring and summer, wildflowers such as mountain laurel and rhododendron line the path, while autumn brings a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows.

About halfway through the hike, you’ll encounter the Pinetree Cascades, a series of small waterfalls tumbling over moss-covered rocks. This tranquil spot is perfect for a rest break, where you can listen to the soothing sound of rushing water while enjoying a snack. The cascades are particularly stunning after a rainfall, when the water flow is at its peak.

As the trail loops back, it gradually ascends to a small ridge, offering glimpses of distant mountain peaks through the trees. The final stretch follows a gentle descent back toward the trailhead, making for a pleasant and well-paced finish.

Wildlife on the Trail

Keep your eyes peeled for an assortment of wildlife and nature! Along the way, you might spot animals like the white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and even the occasional black bear.

Be sure to use best judgement and follow proper bear safety if you do spot one. Be sure to pack your camera or pull out your phone and snap a few pictures to share with your family and friends!

 Birding enthusiasts can get their notebooks out and jot down some of the calls they hear including warblers, woodpeckers, and owls echoing through the forest.

Planning Your Hike

• Best Time to Hike: Spring through fall, with autumn offering spectacular foliage.
• Difficulty: Moderate, with some rocky sections and gentle elevation changes.
• Trailhead Location: Typically accessed via a parking area within Pisgah National Forest (exact coordinates vary, so check local maps).
• What to Bring: Sturdy hiking shoes, water, snacks, a map or GPS, and a camera for capturing the cascades.

The Pinetree Cascade Loop is a fantastic choice for hikers looking for a scenic and peaceful trail that showcases the natural beauty of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. If you're staying for a weekend, we've got the perfect spot for you!

Stay at Meraki Escape

Meraki Escape is conveniently located 30 minutes away from the Veteran's Museum of the Carolinas and offers luxury cabins for a romantic escape, relaxing couple's retreat or a solo vacation. Our cabins are for adults only and offer spa services, romantic packages, tailored experiences-and they're pet-friendly!

We also have waterfalls on our property and private spaces, which provide a scenic spot for some yoga or a picnic without venturing too far. Whatever getaway you choose to have, Meraki Escape offers the best cabins in Pisgah National Forest.