Devil’s Courthouse sits at milepost 422.4 along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Its summit is a dark mass of exposed rock, rising to a height of 5,720 feet.
From the overlook parking area, you can see the mountain and the valley below.
Devil’s Courthouse Trail
For the more adventurous type, there is a short but moderate-to-strenuous trail to its peak. It is mostly paved until the end where it has large rocks and a staircase. From the parking lot, the half-mile path heads toward Devil’s Courthouse Tunnel before turning into the balsam fir forest.
Here the steady, steep ascent begins. There are a couple of benches to sit and forest bathe.
At 0.3 miles, the pavement ends and turns to gravel. Then the trail starts the climb to the summit on stone steps at 0.4 miles. I hiked after a recent rain and due to the shade from the trees, the rocky sections were slick, so watch your step.
Devil’s Courthouse Summit
From the observation area, visitors can see panoramic views of North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia on clear days. It is also amazing to look down and see how far you’ve come from the parking area below.
The craggy mountaintop is framed by short stone walls. There are compass-like plaques naming nearby peaks.
One corner points to Toxaway Mountain, Whiteside Mountain, Tanasee Bald, and Rich Mountain.
Another looks out on Mount Hardy, Richland Balsam, Snowbird Mountain, and Sam Knob.
I loved this beautiful hike and the surrounding landscape. For those looking for additional hiking opportunities, nearby trails include Graveyard Fields, Mountains-to-Sea, Black Balsam Knob, and Sam’s Knob.
There is also a Devil’s Courthouse at Whiteside Mountain near Highlands, North Carolina.