Step out of your comfort zone with this bold hike to Lookout Mountain Montreat near Asheville, NC.
I've partnered up with LISTERINE® Brand to share this hike with you! As always, all opinions are my own.
Hi everyone!
I've been feeling a little blue lately and honestly have been in a great need of a pick-me-up. Luckily I live in a place where there are endless places to clear your mind... like Lookout Mountain Montreat.
The mountains have a certain way of healing your soul.
My good friend Marilyn and I have been talking about doing some mid-week hiking for a long time and our schedules finally freed up last week to make it happen. Perfect timing to get me out of my funk and go do something BOLD! Even sweet Evelyn was up for the adventure. Remember Evelyn's baby sprinkle?
Evelyn is already a hiking pro, trecking dozens of miles with her family through the mountains.
Marilyn and I decided to tackle Lookout Mountain Montreat for a new adventure. Neither of us had done this hike before and we heard it's a pretty intense climb to the top!
The trailhead was well marked and easy to find.
I'll include more specifics on getting there at the bottom of this post.
The hike starts off pretty mellow with a sloping grade to the top.
Signs and blaze yellow arrows lead the way.
At this point we are loving life!
The hike quickly starts gaining elevation. The well-traveled path has steep wooden stairs that carry you up.
On average this hike is near 25% grade and climbs 700 vertical feet. We were feeling the burn in the quads!
The tricky part is right before you reach the summit.
We approached these rocks and weren't exactly sure how we were going to maneuver them. But a closer look showed a pretty worn path to climb up to the top. They looked a little scarier than they actually were, but you have to be pretty good on your feet to get past this.
There were three rocky sections like this one before getting some of our first views of the day.
So pretty!
But just around the corner we found the big payoff!!!!!
How's that for a bold move?
I could quickly see why they call this hike Lookout Mountain Montreat! The views are insane and you can lookout for miles and miles!
Sweet baby Evelyn could not stop laughing! She thought our hiking skillz were pretty funny... or maybe she just thought I was funny. 🙂
Don't answer that...
We snapped a few more photos and took in the views.
I instantly felt less stressed and calm.
The mountains are pretty powerful.
I had so much fun on my bold new hike, that I'd like to encourage you to do the same! Whether it's this same hike at Lookout Mountain Montreat or some other adventure, take a step outside your comfort zone and be adventurous, courageous, daring, strong or even just silly!
Bold is fuel that ignites to exceed your own expectations and take on a world of possibilities. Being bold is having a passion for life, new experiences, knowledge and people... all things I try to embrace daily! I'm a firm believer that adventure comes in many forms and is a key to a happy life.
For me being bold this week was going on a hike with one of my best friends. Perhaps next week it involves flying in our small airplane. Either way, the sky is really the limit.
Did you know LISTERINE® users are actually much more likely to do bold things than non-users? I stand behind that statement because I am a huge LISTERINE® fan and a lover of all things adventure.
Now, LISTERINE® is celebrating the BOLDNESS of users like you and I by launching the Bold Percent program. The Bold Percent program will reward consumers for their boldness by giving away a range of fun, bold prizes.
I've joined the LISTERINE® Brand to join the Bold Percent – and you should too!
Between now and December 7, you can join the Bold Percent by registering on www.BoldPercent.com to unlock inner boldness, win rewards and earn sweepstakes entries towards bold prizes.
Sweepstakes prizes includes:
- 1 Grand Prize of a trip to one of six bold destinations (Australia, Zambia, Alaska, Hawaii, New Orleans, & Spain)
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- Bold Percent members can be even bolder by uploading a receipt showing the purchase of LISTERINE® Mouthwash to receive an additional 50 sweepstakes entries to the Bold Grand Prize.
Enter HERE! Good luck everyone!
Lookout Mountain Montreat Hike Details:
Take the only road into Montreat (NC 9) past the stone entrance. One mile beyond the gate, turn right on Lookout Road. Drive for about a half mile and you will see the well-marked trailhead to the right.
This hike is just under .60 mile one way, but it is steep, gaining 700 feet in that distance. You will need to scramble up rocks to reach the top. It's not hard, but make sure you can maneuver well before heading out.
Want to try this hike? Pin this to one of your favorite boards for later!
I'll be doing more BOLD adventures in coming weeks! Can't wait to share them with you.
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of LISTERINE® Brand.
Thanks so much for stopping by today! Come back tomorrow for a fall inspired Crock Pot Granola recipe.
I’m linking this post with Marvelous Monday, Jill Conyers for Fitness Friday & Inspired to be Fit, Amanda for Thinking Out Loud Thursday, Coaches Corner, and Annmarie for Wild Workout Wednesday.
Your turn!
What would you consider a BOLD activity?
Kevin says
Wow, hiking is really a great activity. I really want to do it now. A great reading for me about hiking lookout, thank you for sharing this wonderful article.
Harvey D says
i should plan hiking trip asap.. so badly miss the great outdoors..
Nicki says
That's beautiful and going on my list of hikes I will take soon. I headed west (since I'm in Haywood County) Sunday and up near Mile High Campground. We pulled off on some logging roads and let the dog out and had a blast.
JulieWunder says
Ohhh I've heard that's beautiful! I hope you have a great time!
Wendy@Taking the Long Way Home says
Looks like a beautiful hike!
kimmythevegan says
What an amazing hike! Sounds tough, but well worth it - those views are amazing.
I tend to hike at least a couple of times a week, though it tends to be the same hikes. I'm starting to try and go to different places to switch things up - this will help keep me motivated!
JulieWunder says
Hi Kimmy! I totally feel ya! I tend to be a creature of habit too.
Divya says
Such great pictures! I just moved to TN from California and, though I'm not particularly happy about this change, I'm loving the hiking here!
JulieWunder says
Hi Divya! I felt the same way when I moved here from Florida, but over the years it really grew on me and now I'll probably never leave. I love Asheville. You'd really enjoy the hiking here!
Jeff Proctor says
This looks like a fun trip!! I live in Blacksburg VA, so not too far from you. We have a lot of great hiking spots up here too.
JulieWunder says
Yes! You will have to try it out! It's a lot of fun!
Wendy says
Nothing better than a great day hiking! It has been too long since I've been. I love seeing all of your photos.
Lindsay Cotter says
What a great place to go hiking! So beautiful!
Emily Kyle says
I've always wanted to go on a hike like this! I can't wait to try something bold like this one day!
Chrissa - Physical Kitchness says
Yep totally added this to my bucket list! I've heard NC has gorgeous areas to hike. Would love to take my hubby there!
Sarah- A Whisk and Two Wands says
Beautiful! My family and I love hiking and being outdoors! This looks so fun and peaceful, will definitely have to add it to our list!
REBECCA SULLIVAN says
Wow thanks for sharing this lovely backdrop!!!
I am launching another 3-part collaboration starting this week with fashion-forward brand STAYING SUMMER – come on over at the blog & see what I am excited about!
Happy Wednesday!!!!
Rebecca
http://www.redtagchiclosangeles.com
REBECCA SULLIVAN says
Wow thanks for sharing this lovely backdrop!!!
I am launching another 3-part collaboration starting this week with fashion-forward brand STAYING SUMMER – come on over at the blog & see what I am excited about!
Happy Wednesday!
Rebecca
http://www.redtagchiclosangeles.com
Patricia @Sweet and Strong says
Your pictures are beautiful! I love a good hike, but would be nervous of the rocks too. With those views ahead I could probably power through. A BOLD activity for me is trying anything new, whether it be a class, adventure, or meeting new people. I'm always super nervous at first but usually so happy I did it.
Jen @ Pretty Little Grub says
Looks like a beautiful hike. Nothing makes me feel better than climbing a mountain. Such accomplishment once you reach the peak.
Annmarie says
Oh my gosh, how pretty! I haven't been for a real hike in such a long time but I AM going to be running through the Adirondacks this weekend and I am really looking forward to it!
Emily says
This looks like a great adventure!! I love Hiking and and thankful we have lots of fun places to hike here!!
Toughcookiemommy says
This is such a beautiful place. I've never been a big fan of hiking, however, if I had this view to enjoy I might change my mind about it.
Chelley @ A is For Adelaide says
Such an amazing hike and WITH a baby?!?! You define BOLD!
Edye says
Hiking is so fun! I no idea North Carolina has such beautiful scenery! 🙂
Elizabeth O says
What a great adventure! I was delighted to see another Lookout Mountain as I've hiked the one on my side of the pond. I loved your photos too as hiking is something I love.
Sonali- The Foodie Physician says
Wow! What an awesome hike and so many breathtaking views and photos! I think it's amazing that baby Evelyn made the trip with you guys- so cool!
JulieWunder says
Thanks Sonali! She had a blast!
Heather @ FITaspire says
I've done this hike! 🙂 A bold activity to me is anything that challenges your limits (which is probably different for everyone). Like hiking 14ers when you're a little afraid of heights. 🙂
JulieWunder says
How cool! Glad you did it too. Yes, that is a bold move!
Taylor Kiser says
The scenery is absolutely breathtaking! I can see how this would be a great place to go for a hike for a change in my mood!
JulieWunder says
Thanks Taylor!
Angela @marathonsandmotivation.com says
I love hiking! This looks absolutely beautiful, great pictures!!
JulieWunder says
Thanks so much Angela!
Carrie says
Looks like a great hike and what stunning views! We are headed up to the family cabin tomorrow and we have a 3 hour hike to the top! But the views are amazing there as well!
JulieWunder says
Now that's a hike! Have a great time!
CourtneyLynne says
Woah! Looks like you had one awesome hike!!!! Nature is just so beautiful. Best part about hiking!
JulieWunder says
Nature is lovely! Thanks so much.
Alisa @ Go Dairy Free says
What a beautiful hike! You are reminding me that I need to get outside ASAP. Love the pictures - too much fun.
JulieWunder says
Thanks Alisa! It's easy to get cooped up in the house working from home!
Mikki says
This hike looks like so much fun. My husband and I are getting more and more into hiking, so I'll have to remember this one.
JulieWunder says
It's so much fun! I hope you get a chance to try it.
lacey@fairytalesandfitness says
Such pretty views. Sounds like a challenging hike but like you said it is a great payoff. I haven't hiked in a long time!
JulieWunder says
It's so much fun! Hope you can try it sometime!
Kristy from Southern In Law says
What a perfect way to cheer yourself up! I always find a good walk or hike helps me feel better!
Sandra Laflamme says
Such a gorgeous hike! We have great hiking here in NH! Looks like you had a ton of fun!
JulieWunder says
yes! Such a great way to spend a day. So happy you have access to trails too!
Debbie@debbiethisandthat.com says
Sounds like you had an awesome hike with your friend. Little Evelyn is so cute! The scenery you shared is truly beautiful.
JulieWunder says
Isn't she? Such a doll! We had such a nice time.
glenneth says
now that fall is here i hope to do more hiking. that looks like a gorgeous one and is fairly close to me (I'm in Tennessee).
JulieWunder says
Oh yes! So many hikes between here and there!
Laura says
We go hiking every week! It's good for the body and soul! Love all these gorgeous pictures!
JulieWunder says
That's so wonderful! Thanks so much!
Michele says
I used to hike with my dogs back when I had one or two--now I am owned by a cat who really dos not like leashes!! Could I make it up that incline? Not anymore--at least not the last part--I would be a lot calmer taking a longer hike on a flat surface!!
JulieWunder says
I totally understand! There are some great flat ones around town too.
Emily @Sinful Nutrition says
Oh my gosh, this looks gorgeous! I didn't make it on a hike this summer like I wanted to, but hoping there are still some nice weekends in the fall before it gets too cold to squeeze one in this year!
JulieWunder says
I hope so! Such a great way to spend a day.
Susie @ SuzLyfe says
This totally takes me back--I haven't been to Lookout Mountain in FOREVER! My brother went to camp not too far from there and I went with one time to pick him up.
Um, we just got a puppy--I think that counts!
Debbie says
Well that explains my life! I've been a Listerine user forever. My husband is even bolder, he uses the unflavored version! 🙂
JulieWunder says
haha! he is! I love it all!
Dani @ Dani California Cooks says
Hikes always boost my spirits too!
JulieWunder says
Thanks Dani!
Kerri McGrail says
Wow this looks like somewhere I definitely want to visit! Also as a future dentist- of course i love me some listerine! The purple one is my fav 🙂
JulieWunder says
haha! They do have the best stuff!
Dannii @ Hungry Healthy Happy says
I am so jealous of these views. I would love to live closer to a beautiful hiking spot like this.
JulieWunder says
It is such a blessing! Hope you are well!
Blane Sherer says
Glad you enjoyed your hike and thanks
for sharing it with us. Beautiful shots !
JulieWunder says
So glad you enjoyed it! Thanks Blane!
zee says
So serene! Your post is a reminder that I need to get our more. to think that nature provides us with all this free beauty is indeed humbling.
zee says
Wow! The environment in your pics does look serene. It reminds me that I need to make more effort to be outdoors.
JulieWunder says
Being outdoors makes me happy! Thanks for stopping by today.
amanda -runtothefinish says
so fun!!! we have been hiking new places in CO every weekend, I haven't ever had the chance to really explore NC though and I want to!
JulieWunder says
You'd love it here too! I haven't been to CO, but I hear it has similarities... just lower mountains. 🙂
Jenn says
WOW!! These views are amazing!! In Florida we have mostly flat land but Id love to make it up there one day to hike. It looks so peaceful!
JulieWunder says
Thanks Jenn! I grew up in Florida so I know the scene! So different up here.
Emily says
This is SO BEAUTIFUL, and I love how you brought a little one along! 🙂 All that climbing is always worth the breathtaking view at the top! God is an awesome Creator!
JulieWunder says
She had a blast!!
God is good!
Deborah @ Confessions of a mother runner says
Wow that looks like a fabulous hike! Those views are amazing and good for her for hiking up with the baby. Impressive!
JulieWunder says
Yes, she's a hiking rock star!
Dan Steadman says
that'd be a fun hike to take with the kids...I mean taking 3 kids hiking that's pretty bold right?
JulieWunder says
haha! Yes, that's bold!!! They'd love it though. It was kind of fun to scamper up the rocks at the end.
Abbey says
Wow what a view!!!! And amazing contest!
JulieWunder says
Thanks Abbey!
heather @Lunging Through Life says
So many trails to hike where you live! I love the lookout. It's crazy how far you can see! So glad you were able to go with your friend and have some time to destress.
JulieWunder says
Thanks Heather! It was such a nice morning!
Luci Buckner says
Looking good Julie!!! Quite a climb!!! Wish I could climb like that but I'm many years older than you. Hiking is great for the mind!!! Glad it got you out of your funk!!! Wishing you a good Monday & week ahead....Peace to you...
JulieWunder says
Hi Luci! We'll find you a flatter one 🙂 I've gotten my Dad with bad knees on the trails too. Try Moore Cove Falls! Hope you have a good week too.
Alicia @Bridges Through Life says
I love nature (well except for the bugs that like to bite me). That hike looks beautiful. I definitely want to work on hiking more. Such a great workout.
JulieWunder says
haha! Oh I feel ya! It is such a good workout. Hope you get a change to try it soon.
Susanna @Zealous Mom says
These pictures are gorgeous! I so wish I could have hiked with you. My mind and spirit could really use a hike these days. Your pictures are amazing. My dentist told me one time that mouthwash is integral to a comprehensive dental hygiene regimen, so thank you for this post and highlighting a great brand.
JulieWunder says
Sounds like your dentist is a smart man! We'll go soon, Susanna!
Mary Beth Jackson says
Beautiful! I would love to do more hiking- it is just so peaceful! and definitely clears the mind! As far as bold goes, I did buy a new car this weekend and after owning my last one 7 years- that was pretty bold! 🙂 Happy Monday!
JulieWunder says
That is pretty bold! Congrats on the new ride!