Devil's Courthouse

The Devil's Courthouse, accessed by a Blue Ridge Parkway Trail, presides over some of the most spectacular views in the Blue Ridge Mountains. From the mountain top of Devil's Courthouse at 5,720 feet, hikers can see into South Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee in a 360-degree panorama. This rough outcropping in the Balsam Range is a part of the Nantahala National Forest.

Devil's Courthouse may have received its name because of the sinister aspect of the rock formation, or because in legend, the devil held court in the cave that lies beneath the rock. In Cherokee lore, this cave is the private dancing chamber and dwelling place of the slant-eyed giant, Judaculla.

Despite its name and dubious reptutation, the Devil's Courthouse is the habitat of rare, high-altitude plants. Some of these alpine species may be remnants from the last glacial period. Hawks, ravens, vultures, and occasionally eagles and peregrine falcons ride the hot air currents that rise from the valley. A variety of trails wind through the area; the Blue Ridge Parkway Trail is half a mile one-way and strenuous. Rock climbing is also popular on Devil's Courthouse.

Devil's Courthouse Hours of Operation:
Devil's Courthouse is open all the time, year round

Devil's Courthouse Admission Fees:
None
*Prices are subject to change without notice & from what is listed on this website.

Devil's Courthouse Location:
From exit 85 off U.S. 23/74 in Sylva, drive east on U.S. 23/74 for 8.9 mi. then turn left, entering the Blue Ridge Parkway. Proceed in the direction of Asheville, go 0.4 mi. past milepost 422, then turn right into Devil's Courthouse parking overlook.

From Asheville, drive 40 miles south on the Blue Ridge Parkway to Milepost 422.2. Closest town: Pisgah Forest/Brevard, approximately 16 miles.

U.S. Forest Service Regional Office
160 Zillicoa St.
Asheville, NC 28801
828-257-4200