Cradle of Forestry

In the valley below, the Cradle of Forestry in America stands as the birthplace of science-based forest management and a living legacy made possible by George and Edith Vanderbilt of the nearby Biltmore Estate. Some 87,000 acres of the Vanderbilts’ Pisgah Forest tract viewed from this point became the nucleus of Pisgah National Forest, established in 1916. Congress created this 6,500-acre historic site in 1968 to preserve, develop, and make available to present and future generations the birthplace of forestry and forestry education in America. Today it is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and welcomes visitors to explore environmental sustainability and stewardship through historic structures, interpretive trails, exhibits, films, music, drama, guided tours, nature programs, craft demonstrations, special events, and walks through the woods and neighboring Pink Beds Valley.

North Carolina · United States