Point Lookout Trail

Historically Point Lookout was a tourist attraction.  Visitors to the Blue Ridge Mountains enjoyed this stop along Highway 70, located between Black Mountain and Marion, as an opportunity to stretch their legs, visit the Pepsi drinking Black Bear and enjoy the views of Royal Gorge.  When Interstate 40 was completed, Highway 70 was closed to the public and travelers visiting Asheville arrived via I-40.

Today, Old Highway 70 has been re-paved and opened as a running, bicycle or walking trail.  Richard Acrivos' photo depicts the "mid-point" of this 3.62 mile trail.  A great place to sit, relax and enjoy the view!  Spectacular Blue Ridge mountain views any time of year and easily accessible from the Town of Old Fort or Black Mountain and conveniently situated practically adjacent to the Ridgecrest Conference Center.  Whether you choose to first descend from the "Ridgecrest side" or ascend from the "Old Fort side," you'll find the19th century train tunnels, overlooks and views of Royal Gorge are unchanged.  Search our website for hiking trails to view maps and see directions.  (Cover photo courtesy of Mark File.)