Outdoor NC connected with Ashley Greenstein, an avid adventure rider, Public Information Manager at Explore Asheville, and Board Member of the Outdoor Business Alliance, to gather her expert trip tips and insights on exploring Asheville. With her extensive experience and passion for the outdoors, Ashley offers invaluable recommendations and highlights hidden gems to make your Asheville adventure unforgettable. Check out her advice below!
What are the most overlooked areas in Asheville that need to be recreated and explored?
The northern eastern section of the Pisgah National Forest near Barnardsville. It can be explored on foot or bike on the Big Ivy trails, or from great heights while ziplining at Navitat Canopy Adventures.
What’s your favorite season to recreate in North Carolina and why?
Following the dormant winter, March with its daffodils, iris, and buttercups, is the time to witness the first bursts of spring color.
What level of experience is needed to recreate in the Asheville area?
Beyond offering the best mountain biking on the East Coast, this region provides numerous opportunities for adventure and exploration, with trails suitable for all ages and abilities.
How long should you plan on visiting the area?
Spending three to five days in the region will give you a satisfying taste of the area and will likely leave you wanting to return. It's best to visit on Sundays through Thursdays, when you may even have the opportunity to enjoy a mountain top all to yourself.
What sets the area apart from other destinations?
Surrounded by two national forests and a state park, outdoor Asheville provides exceptional access, with a trail always reachable within 15 to 30 minutes.
What is unique about the facilities and infrastructure of the area?
Asheville and Buncombe County combine the best of both worlds by providing unparalleled access to the great outdoors and a lively, culturally rich urban environment.
How do you plan and prepare for your recreational activities?
Remember to plan your route. You can use a trail route app like Trail Forks or visit a local outdoor store such as Second Gear for recommendations, maps, and any other equipment that will help you feel more confident and comfortable on the trail. Also, always let a friend know your plans if you're going solo.
What piece of outdoor equipment is your must have?
The region is abundant with waterfalls and creeks, providing ample opportunities to filter your water and refill as you go. I never leave home without my life straw and treats for for when I run low on energy on the trail.
How do you implement one Outdoor NC Leave No Trace principle before/during/or after your activity?
Always remember to pack in and pack out. If you can't take it with you when you leave, it doesn't belong in the forest.
What is your favorite place to visit before or after an outdoor adventure for a meal/coffee/or another beverage?
My favorite reward after some fun is heading to a local brewery on my way home. Asheville boasts one of the highest numbers of breweries per capita in the country with over 30 breweries in the city and more than 50 in Buncombe County.
Share a unique place to stay in the area. Why would you recommend these accommodations?
Wrong Way Cabins is situated in a picturesque location along the Amboy Adventure corridor, and offers elevated views of the French Broad River from your own A-Frame cabin.
What is your can’t-miss experience in the area?
My can’t-miss experience is driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway and hiking through Craggy Gardens or up to Craggy Pinnacle. Both trails offer unique views and some of the highest points within a short drive of Asheville.
Can you give us an insider tip before you go?
If you plan to visit Craggy Gardens, park at the Craggy Gardens Picnic trailhead. It's a bit farther from the Blue Ridge Parkway, but it always has plenty of parking and tables for picnicking. Benches are also available along the trail.