Cradle of Forestry
This 6,500-acre site in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville, NC was established to “preserve, develop, and make available to this and future generations the birthplace of forestry and forestry education in America.”
The Cradle of Forestry in America is nestled in the Pisgah National Forest along the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Our trails offer visitors a chance to explore seven historical buildings from the time of the Biltmore Forest School (1898-1914), climb aboard and ring the bell of a 1914 Climax logging train engine, and interact with historical interpreters through programs and special events. Inside our Discovery Center you’ll find our gift shop bursting with nature-themed books, clothing, toys and crafts, a spacious theater playing a short film about the history of our site, and an interactive exhibit hall. You can also view the mature American Sycamore Apollo Moon Tree on our campus. Learn more at Apollo Moon Trees.
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The site is family friendly however, please note that all children must be accompanied by adults at all times while on site.
Directions
From Asheville, NC, keep right at the fork to continue on I-26 E. Take exit 40 for North Carolina 280/Asheville Reg’l Arpt toward Arden. Keep right at the fork, follow signs for WNC Agriculture Ctr/Airport and merge onto NC-280 W/Airport Rd/New Arpt Rd. Merge onto NC-280 W/Airport Rd/New Arpt Rd. Continue to follow NC-280 W. Pass by Taco Bell (on the right in 15.8 mi). Turn right onto US-276 N. Turn right onto Cradle Dr.