From Linville Gorge to the Davidson River Valley, the land comprising Pisgah National Forest has been a source of pleasure to hikers for generations. This guide details almost 100 of the forest's finest trails, selected for their views, the waterfalls they visit, and the diversity of plant and animal life present. The authors hiked all the trails using a hand-held GPS unit. Each trail entry includes distance, elevation gained, GPS coordinates at various points, and a detailed description of the terrain and landscape. The guide also includes maps, as well as sidebars on first aid and items of historic and botanical interest. Black-and-white photos are scattered throughout. Appendixes provide lists of loop trails, hikes for children and the elderly, half-day and full-day hikes, and trails accessible from the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Franklin Goldsmith has a degree in philosophy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and received a degree in engineering from North Carolina State University. His sister, Shannon Hamrick, and her husband, James Hamrick, both held undergraduate and medical degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Franklin and Shannon grew up in McDowell County, North Carolina, at the edge of the Grandfather District of Pisgah National Forest. All three are experienced hikers.