Gifford pinchot in Canton, North Carolina

The Cradle of Forestry Overlook, located on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Canton, North Carolina, is a landmark and tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into the history of forest conservation in the United States. Once owned by George Vanderbilt, the land now part of Pisgah National Forest was instrumental in the development of forestry practices by Gifford Pinchot and Dr. Carl Schenck. The Biltmore Forestry School, founded by Vanderbilt and Schenck, is now part of an outdoor museum run by the U.S. Forest Service at the Cradle of Forestry. Visitors can enjoy views of the surrounding forest and Looking Glass Rock from the L-shaped overlook, offering a unique perspective on the area's natural beauty. With panoramic views and a rich history, the Cradle of Forestry Overlook is a must-see destination on the Blue Ridge Parkway.