Frying Pan Lookout Tower earns its place among Western North Carolina’s tallest historic fire towers with its impressive 70-foot height. Built in the 1940s for the U.S. Forest Service, this soaring tower served as a critical lookout point for nearly half a century before being decommissioned in the 1990s.
It is said that local herders coined the mountain’s nickname after a communal frying pan that hung in a tree near the tower. Thanks to recent restorations, visitors can now safely explore this iconic landmark.
To set out on the popular 1.5-mile hike, start at the dirt pull-off on Forest Service Road 450. The Park Service asks that visitors do not block the gate! The wide gravel path climbs steadily for a mile and is lined with wildflowers and lush greenery. Add two more miles of trail time by starting at Mount Pisgah Campground.
Upon reaching the summit of Frying Pan Mountain, which stands at 5,340 feet above sea level––or 5,410′ for those who make the climb up the tower––you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Photos from Dylan Messer and Connor Fernandes.
