An introduction to Hickory Nut Gap Steep wooded slopes, mountain creeks, open fields and long-range views: this trail has a little bit of every type of terrain that you'd find in the Hickory Nut Gap area. Since the trail is new (completed in 2014) and not well known, you’re unlikely to have to share the payoff view at the summit with other hikers. What To Expect From the parking area,
Roam the Roan Highlands on this unforgettable section of the AT Considered one of the most scenic areas on the entire Appalachian Trail, this section starting from Carver’s Gap (elevation 5,512) takes you across three spectacular unique grassy hilltops (known as "balds") with unimpeded views. If you arrive in mid-to-late June, you’ll catch the rhododendron bloom, one of
This classic hike near Western Carolina University delivers a workout Looking for a challenge? Dramatic views await at The Pinnacle, a rock outcropping that sits at elevation 5,008 feet. When you reach the summit, you'll see the town of Sylva below, with the Smokies in the distance and the Plott Balsam mountain range in the foreground. You’ll get a serious workout on this
Popular, easily accessible trail with picnic potential If traveling from downtown Asheville, you can be stepping on the Lookout Trail in Montreat in about 25 minutes and, after a brisk hike, stepping off it under an hour later. Rock outcroppings near the peak make for perfect picnicking, and the horizon is dotted with the peaks of the Seven Sisters of the Black Mountains. Fall color is spectacular
An idyllic (and flat) hike in the woods for the true nature lover Nature lovers flock to the Pink Beds Loop Trail in Pisgah National Forest. The sounds of the rushing creeks and bird song add a peaceful, unhurried feeling to the atmosphere. Evidence of wildlife—such as the beaver dams seen on the ponds—is all around on this winding woodland trail. Uncommon in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Three wonderful waterfalls on one Great Smoky Mountains National Park hike Deep Creek is one of the most beloved areas in the Smokies, known for offering the opportunity to see three beautiful waterfalls. Take a 5-mile loop hike to see them all or craft a shorter hike. Deep Creek is also known for its popular tubing sections -- one of which passes directly in front of one of the waterfalls! The
Intriguing name, spectacular sunsets From the parking area at Devil’s Courthouse Blue Ridge Parkway , you can see your destination above you: an imposing rock outcropping that dares you to climb it. Rise to the challenge: from atop this edifice, you’ll have the world at your feet, with views to the north, south and west. The summit of Devil's Courthouse is at 5,720 feet. The
An off-the-beaten path gem with an easy or challenging approach Tucked away in the beautiful Big Ivy area of Pisgah National Forest, the 70-foot Douglas Falls offers the rare opportunity to walk behind a waterfall. The waterfall drops from an overhanging cliff and features an impressive rock wall in the background. You won’t get to Douglas Falls by accident. But you’ll be glad you
A Blue Ridge Parkway classic, this is a local favorite When you think of views from the Blue Ridge Parkway , chances are these are the kinds of views that come to mind: the unimpeded, long-range vistas from Black Balsam Knob. Surrounded by wilderness, this tree-free ‘bald’ is an easy, family-friendly hike, ideal for picnicking or blueberry picking. Appalachian “balds”
Zach King is known as a video magician who is in a league of his own. His digital tricks have been dazzling people around the world, gaining him millions of fans. It’s no wonder this video magician was drawn to Asheville, where you can find magical moments at nearly every turn. That’s just what Zach King discovered on his adventures in town. See for yourself by watching the
We asked our fans to share their favorite Asheville outdoor experiences and we received thousands of nominations , highlighting the many outdoor adventures at your fingertips when visiting. The responses were submitted to us as part of our Asheville Ultimate Top 8 Getaway Giveaway in early 2018. We asked that our fans not only nominate their favorite but tell us why they chose that adventure.
Each summer, the festival series celebrates traditional mountain music and dance of Asheville and the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Shindig on the Green is a free, outdoor mountain bluegrass music and dance festival that takes place throughout the summer months in the heart of downtown Asheville at Pack Square Park . The Shindigs are on most Saturdays from late June through early September each
Biltmore is a place that can easily take your breath away. From the awe-inspiring details inside the home to the beautifully-manicured gardens and trails, you'll find there's so much to explore. As you plan your visit, we've developed a way to help you discover Biltmore from the comfort of your own home. Through a partnership with Biltmore and Google
Look out over the stunning rhododendron-filled vistas at Craggy Gardens , see the “Seven Sisters” mountain peaks towering over Black Mountain’s Lake Tomahawk and discover the grandeur of the gardens at Biltmore . You now can have all these experiences before you ever arrive in Asheville for your visit! How’s that possible? Through a partnership with
Home Events Where to See Glass Tours Chihuly Exhibit About Glass in WNC As an art form, glass appears to be equal parts chemistry and alchemy. It’s a medium that’s been around since early Roman times, but here in Asheville, North Carolina, and the surrounding region is where studio glass took off in the Southeast. With more than 100 glass artists living and working in the region,
Home Events Where to See Glass Tours Chihuly Exhibit About Glass in WNC After spending a day (or two) enjoying the vibrant glass arts scene in Asheville, short day-trips take you further into the historic heart of the Studio Glass Movement in Appalachia. While Asheville’s busy art galleries, museums, working artist studios and shops will introduce you to a dynamic community of glass artists
Home Events Where to See Glass Tours Chihuly Exhibit About Glass in WNC Exploring Western North Carolina’s ever-expanding studio glass scene is an education. From blown glass to fused glass and etching, you can encounter a different process in every studio you visit. The dazzling creations you see in and around Asheville are the result of mastery of a number of techniques as well as
Home Events Where to See Glass Tours Chihuly Exhibit About Glass in WNC Asheville’s reputation as an arts destination is well known, but there are still under-the-radar parts of the art scene to explore. While many associate Western North Carolina with the pottery tradition, the region was more recently pivotal in the development of another field: studio glass. If you’re not familiar
Clear your head and stretch your legs at one of Asheville's many parks and greenways. Many of these green spaces are just minutes from the bustling downtown areas in Asheville and Black Mountain , meaning you won't have to go far for a nice walk. Asheville Botanical Gardens Less than 10 minutes north of downtown Asheville, you'll find an ubran oasis.
Feel the rush of sliding down a 60-foot all-natural water slide in the heart of gorgeous Pisgah National Forest ! The appropriately named Sliding Rock is an experience unlike any other and it’s one of the most exciting ways to cool off in the warmer weather months. People of all ages lineup to take the plunge down the sloping rock face waterfall on
Check Hotel Rates
Search B&Bs or Cabins & Rentals
Search B&Bs or Cabins & Rentals
Search B&Bs or Cabins & Rentals
Sign up for your free Visitor Guide. Your Asheville story begins here.
