ALERT
In response to the widespread damage caused by Hurricane Helene, all recreation sites on the Pisgah and Nantahala remain closed until hazardous conditions improve and assessments can be completed. Visit fs.usda.gov/nfsnc for more information.
In response to the widespread damage caused by Hurricane Helene, all recreation sites on the Pisgah and Nantahala remain closed until hazardous conditions improve and assessments can be completed. Visit fs.usda.gov/nfsnc for more information.
Cradle of Forestry
Pisgah National Forest
11250 Pisgah Highway
Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
$10 regular admission – Ages 13 and up
$6 children – Ages 4-12
$5 for federal pass holders, cradle season pass holders
No events are scheduled at this time.
Celebrate the forest heritage of western North Carolina during the annual Forest Festival Day and John G. Palmer Intercollegiate Woodmen’s Meet, organized in conjunction with Haywood County College in Clyde, NC. On Saturday, October 7 from 10:00 am-5:00 pm. This event brings the whole Cradle of Forestry campus to life, showcasing forestry and traditional craft.
The festival is an activity-filled, family event that commemorates the traditions of mountain living and craft in a unique and beautiful setting.
Forestry students from across the region, traditional craftsmen and exhibitors will be on site during the celebration. Competing schools include: Haywood Community College (host), from Clyde, NC; Penn State Mont Alto, from Mont Alto PA; Montgomery Community College from Troy, NC; Wayne Community College from Goldsboro, NC; Mountain Gateway Community College from Clifton Forge, VA; and NC State University from Raleigh, NC.
Festival-goers can cheer as college forestry students compete during the Woodsmen’s Meet that has the flavor of an old-time lumberjack competition. The students test their skills in a number of events including archery, axe throwing, crosscut sawing and pole felling.
The following community partners will also be joining us with information about their work, give aways and other fun activities: STIHL, Society of American Foresters, Hemlock Restoration Initiative, Muddy Sneakers, Local Author and Train Enthusiast Gerald Ledford, Judy Roloff wood carving, Steve Revis local Blacksmith, The American Chestnut Foundation, Back Country Horsemen of Pisgah, Leave No Trace, Southern Appalachian Wilderness Stewards (SAWS), Carolina Mountain Club and FIND Outdoors.
Food Truck onsite: SMASHNC will begin serving at 11 am and be onsite throughout the event/competition.
Special thanks to our presenting sponsor:
Special thanks to the following:
Breakfast for participating forestry students Underwriting Celebration dinner
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, our cherished public lands have faced significant challenges. Your support is crucial in helping us restore and reopen these vital spaces.
Here’s how your donation can make a profound impact:
Your contribution will directly fund the rebuilding of bridges and boardwalks damaged by flooding, rerouting heavily eroded trails, and clearing debris from our beautiful outdoor areas. These spaces are not just paths and parks; they are the backdrop for family memories, adventures, and connections to nature.
We’re committed to empowering our communities with the knowledge and resources to prepare for future emergencies, ensuring everyone can enjoy the great outdoors safely.
Many people who care for public lands have been affected by the storm. Your generosity will help provide them with vital support during this challenging time.
