News

Crew to reconstruct Mt. Pisgah viewing platform

By Lightning Reports, Published: October 20, 2023

Beginning Monday, Oct. 23, a contracted crew and volunteers will start reconstruction of the viewing platform atop Mount Pisgah in Pisgah National Forest off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 407.6. The project is funded through donations to the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.

The original viewing platform was constructed by the United States Youth Conservation Corps in 1979. In recent years, repairs to the platform became extensive and warranted reconstruction of large portions of the structure. Volunteers from Carolina Mountain Club will assist with the project.
“This reconstruction project demonstrates the power of partnerships and will allow visitors to continue to enjoy that iconic view atop Mt. Pisgah,” said Jeff Owenby, Cradle of Forestry Director for the Pisgah Ranger District.
The Mount Pisgah trail will remain open, but hikers are advised to use caution when visiting the summit. The project is expected to take approximately two weeks and will involve the use of a funicular owned by Sinclair Broadcast Group to transport materials up the 5,721-foot peak.
“Not only will the new platform be attractive, but it will provide a safer area for hikers to take in mountain views,” said Kevin Brandt, project manager for the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.
This project was inspired by the memory of Lisa Hambrick Hagebak and championed by her family to recognize her love of the North Carolina mountains and Blue Ridge Parkway.
The Foundation also recently funded the addition of an interpretive sign installed in the overlook parking area where the Mount Pisgah trailhead is located. The wayside panel features the history of Buck Spring Lodge, George W. Vanderbilt’s former Adirondack-style retreat which was located nearby.