Hiking the Cat Gap Trail to John Rock Loop with Simba the Adventure Pup!

Hey friends! Ash here from Life on Paws and Wheels, bringing you another pawsome adventure from the road.

This time, Simba (my golden retriever and trail-loving sidekick) and I tackled the Cat Gap Trail to John Rock Loop in beautiful Brevard, North Carolina — a challenging but totally rewarding hike in the heart of Pisgah National Forest.

If you love summit views, lush forest trails, and dog-friendly adventures, this iconic North Carolina loop hike definitely belongs on your bucket list!

🗺️ About the Cat Gap Trail to John Rock Loop

This ~5-mile loop hike is rated moderate to strenuous thanks to some steep climbs and rocky sections, but don’t let that scare you off — the payoff at the top is spectacular.

The trail winds through gorgeous forest, follows babbling streams, and eventually brings you to the John Rock summit: a massive granite outcrop with breathtaking panoramic views over the Pisgah mountains, Looking Glass Rock, and the surrounding wilderness.

🐾 Hiking with Simba: Dog-Friendly Highlights

✔️ Leashed + dog-friendly — Simba handled the trail like a pro, powering up the climbs and loving the cool, shaded forest.
✔️ Water stops — plenty of creek crossings where Simba could take a drink and cool off (but always bring extra water!).
✔️ Rocky summit — Simba enjoyed the view, but we kept him safely leashed near the edges.
✔️ Forest critters + smells — bonus fun for a curious pup!

🚐 RV Traveler Tips

Pisgah National Forest has several RV-friendly campgrounds nearby, making this a perfect day hike for RV travelers. Davidson River Campground is one of the closest options, just minutes from the trailhead — it’s a great base camp if you want to explore more of Brevard’s trails and waterfalls.

Pro tip: Arrive early or go on a weekday — this is a popular trail, and the parking lot can fill up, especially in peak hiking seasons.

🎥 Watch Our Full Trail Adventure

In our latest video, Simba and I guide you through the Cat Gap to John Rock Loop, show off the stunning summit views, and share tips for making the most of this North Carolina gem with your dog.

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Why We Recommend the John Rock Loop

✔️ Incredible panoramic summit views from John Rock.
✔️ Dog-approved adventure — Simba gives it four muddy paws up!
✔️ Challenging but rewarding loop with a great mix of terrain.
✔️ Perfect RV day hike when visiting Brevard or Pisgah National Forest.

Thanks for joining us on another adventure! Simba and I are traveling full-time across the U.S., on a mission to find the best hikes, campgrounds, and dog-friendly spots. Got a favorite trail or hidden gem you think we should explore? Drop it in the comments — we’d love to hear from you!

Until next time, happy trails, safe travels, and wagging tails! 🐾🏞️🚐

Location: Brevard, NC, USA

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