Devil's Courthouse facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Devil's Courthouse |
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 5,720 ft (1,740 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Transylvania County, North Carolina, U.S. |
| Parent range | Appalachian Mountains |
| Topo map | USGS Sam Knob |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Hike |
Devil's Courthouse is a cool mountain in the Appalachian Mountains of western North Carolina, in the United States. It's known for its unique shape and amazing views. This mountain is found on the western edge of the Pisgah National Forest. It's about 10 miles (16 kilometers) northwest of Brevard. It's also about 28 miles (45 kilometers) southwest of Asheville.
You can find Devil's Courthouse at milepost 422.4 on the famous Blue Ridge Parkway. There's a hiking trail that goes up about half a mile to the top. It's a bit challenging, but the views from the peak are incredible! On a clear day, you can see parts of four different states: North Carolina, Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
What Makes Devil's Courthouse Special?
Devil's Courthouse stands out because of its unique shape. It has a very steep, rocky cliff face. This cliff looks like a judge's bench in a courtroom, which is how it got its interesting name. The mountain reaches a height of 5,720 feet (1,743 meters) above sea level.
Hiking to the Summit
The trail to the top of Devil's Courthouse is about half a mile long. It's considered a moderate to strenuous hike. This means it can be a bit challenging, but it's worth the effort. The path is well-maintained, but it does climb steeply in some parts. Make sure to wear good hiking shoes!
When you reach the summit, you'll find a viewing platform. This platform offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. It's a perfect spot for taking photos and enjoying nature.
Cherokee Legends: The Myth of Judaculla
Long ago, the Cherokee people had many stories about the mountains. One legend talks about a giant named Judaculla. Some stories say that Judaculla lived in a cave right inside Devil's Courthouse. Judaculla was often described as a slant-eyed giant.
However, a famous anthropologist named James Mooney studied Cherokee culture over 100 years ago. He found that most Cherokee stories actually placed Judaculla at a different mountain. This mountain is called Tanasee Bald. Tanasee Bald is only about 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) southwest of Devil's Courthouse. It's where Haywood, Jackson, and Transylvania counties meet. So, while Devil's Courthouse is linked to some legends, Judaculla's main home was likely Tanasee Bald.
