It has baffled pioneers and scientists alike.  The old-timers would shake their heads and say that there was a spell on Brown Mountain.  The old hunters told stories of how their dogs would come whimpering  back whenever they got to a certain spot on the mountain.  The Brown Mountain lights are balls of fire that pop up over Brown Mountain.  Fall is considered the best time to see the lights and Wiseman's View is one of the favorite spots to come and watch for these mysterious lights.  As you look towards Brown Mountain a light will pop up on the horizon.  It will shine steadily for a few seconds.  Then it will rise into the air and waver and then wink out.  

The phenomenon first gained national attention in 1913 when the U.S. Geological Survey became interested in the mystery and sent scientists to study what the cause of them might be.  

Over the years there have been many scientific theories, but the mystery still remains unsolved.  One legend has it that the light is the soul of an Indian maiden searching for her brave warrior killed in a bloody battle.  Another legend was made famous by Scott Wiseman in his song about the Brown Mountain Light.