Enjoy Hiking in Asheville, NC

Blue Ridge Parkway

A product of the New Deal's effort to provide jobs to the unemployed of the Great Depression, Blue Ridge Parkway began construction in September 1935 at Cumberland Knob near the North Carolina and Virginia state line. The idea was to create a link between the Shenandoah National Park to the edge of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Completed in 1983, this one-of-a-kind parkway stretches 469 miles.

Our favorite hike? Black Balsam and Sams Knob — located at mile marker 420, Black Balsam serves up breathtaking views from it's bald ridges. You won't regret the 50-minute drive — we promise. Go for a drive or a bike ride — there are plenty of trails to explore and overlooks to stop on for a picnic! 

Mountains to Sea Trail

Within a 30 minute drive of Asheville, you can reach excellent sections of the North Carolina Mountains to Sea Trail via the Blue Ridge Parkway. While the 1,000-mile-long trail spans the entire state, shorter segments of the trail along the Parkway are great for walks, day hikes with children, or quick stress-relieving strolls when you don't have a lot of time.

The Mountains to Sea Trail follows the Blue Ridge Parkway right through town, from Mount Pisgah in the South to Craggy Gardens in the North. 

North Carolina Arboretum

With more than 10 miles of hiking and biking trails adjacent to the Bent Creek Experimental Forest and nestled in one of the most beautiful natural settings in America, the Arboretum is a popular destination for amblers and athletes alike.

The Appalachian Trail

The closest place to access the Appalachian Trail from Asheville is by driving to Hot Springs, North Carolina, one of the towns the trail goes right through (on the side walk). Hike up to Lovers Leap and then take a visit to the Hot Springs Spa and soak in the natural hot springs for just $30 — this is a great day trip! You'll find guide books in the Yurt, as well as information about Hot Springs Spa. 

Dupont State Forest

Located just 45 minutes outside of Asheville, Dupont recreational forest features miles of great hiking and mountain biking trails leading to numerous waterfalls, swimming holes, and "it's good to be alive" views.