HikeWNC.info concurs: "Visible from many locations along the Blue Ridge Parkway and found on postcards in every gift shop in the region, the summit of the rock provides a spectacular vista of the surrounding mountains and valleys. As such, this challenging hike has been one of the most popular in the area for a long time.”

“Challenging" is a good way to describe this hike. Despite its popularity, it isn’t an easy climb. You’ll climb over 1,700 feet in less than three miles, switchbacking steeply up the mountainside to reach the top of the rock bald. Some sections of the trail are well-built and have been designed to withstand the deluge of precipitation common in this temperate rain forest, but other sections are classic Pisgah: washed out into a big trench filled with exposed roots, rolling rocks, and loose or slick dirt.

Once you reach the top, take some time to savor the accomplishment of climbing this gnarly rock. If you see any rock climbers ascending the steep rock face itself, taking a much more difficult approach to the summit, don’t let that tarnish your own sense of self-satisfaction!

After a picnic on the slickrock bald enjoying stupendous views of the surrounding Appalachian Mountains, begin your trek back down. Bear in mind that in some places, such as the eroded sections of trail, the descent will be even more challenging than the climb. Ensure that you’ve budgeted enough time to complete this entire hike—Looking Glass Rock isn’t an easy foray into the mountains.