Cradle of Forestry

The Cradle of Forestry, nestled within the scenic Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina, is a historic site that marks the birthplace of professional forestry in the United States. Established in 1898 by Dr. Carl Schenck, who founded the Biltmore Forest School, this 6,500-acre area was the first to implement scientific forest management practices in America. Today, it serves as an educational hub, offering visitors a chance to explore exhibits, historic buildings, and interpretive trails that highlight the legacy of sustainable forestry. With its lush surroundings and rich history, the Cradle of Forestry provides an engaging experience for those interested in conservation and the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.

Contact Information:

11250 Pisgah Hwy. 

Pisgah Forest, NC 28768 

Phone: (828) 877-3130

Map:

Trails:

Barnett Branch Trail

Barnett Branch Trail leads from Pink Beds Loop up to Buck Spring Trail.

Pink Beds Loop

Pink Beds Loop makes a loop trail from the Pink Beds Picnic Area.

Points of Interest:

Barnett Branch Trail Falls

Barnett Branch Trail Falls is a waterfall on a tributary of Barnett Branch right along the trail.

Wildlife:

Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta)

Blue-stemmed goldenrod (Solidago caesia)

Blog Entries:

31-Aug-2025: Cove Creek Hike

01-Jul-2017: Avery Creek Waterfalls

External Links:

US Forest Service website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/northcarolina/recreation/cradle-forestry

Go Find Outdoors website: https://gofindoutdoors.org/sites/cradle-of-forestry/