Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, North Carolina is a top destination for outdoor adventurers. With its breathtaking landscapes, world-class attractions, and variety of outdoor activities, it is no wonder it is beloved by so many. Popular attractions in and near the area include the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Biltmore Estate, and the Chimney Rock Park. For the best trails and outdoor activities, try the Appalachian Trail, the Pisgah National Forest, and the Nantahala National Forest. Asheville offers something for everyone, from beginner hikers to experienced climbers and beyond. With so many exciting outdoor activities and attractions to explore, you will never run out of things to do in Asheville.
Top Spots in and near Asheville
-
Sunset, South Carolina
Virginia Hawkins Falls (Double Falls)
4.02.6 mi / 456 ft gainA moderate to advanced 2.6 mile hike has many stairs and a lot of ascents and descents along the way. The hike may not be the easiest but the payoff is worth it. The trail is easily marked so no need to worry about getting lost.Read more -
Morganton, North Carolina
Babel Tower Trail
5.02.26 mi / 965 ft gainThe Babel Tower Trail near Morganton, North Carolina, offers hikers a challenging yet rewarding experience within the Linville Gorge Wilderness. This approximately 1.5-mile trail descends about 900 feet, leading adventurers to the iconic Babel Tower—a towering rock formation that provides panor...Read more -
Bakersville, North Carolina
Hiking from Carver's Gap to Hwy. 19 on the AT
5.020.7 miThe AT from Carver's Gap to HWY 19 is about 14.5 miles, but with side adventures, it could be roughly 20 miles. The trail crosses the road and continues up about a 400 ft. elevation gain to the first of the balds. This section of the AT is beautiful at near 6000 ft. above sea level and you will g...Read more -
Lake Toxaway, North Carolina
Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Falls in Gorges SP
4.53.91 mi / 778 ft gainRainbow Falls is one of the most scenic waterfalls in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains. The Horsepasture River swells in the rainy season, dumping a cascade of water 150 feet. The plume of mist at the bottom creates a distinct rainbow effect, giving the falls its name. Hike to Rainbow Falls ...Read more -
Newland, North Carolina
Hike the Conley Cove Trail into Linville Gorge
5.02.6 mi / 1200 ft gainFollow the gravel old 105 to the parking lot at the Rock Jock Trailhead. Follow this trail a short distance until it splits to the left for Conley Cove. The Conley Cove trail descends over 1,200 ft. into the Linville Gorge, providing a glimpse into the dense and wild Pisgah National Forest. Shor...Read more -
Bakersville, North Carolina
Cloudland Trail
5.02.46 mi / 276 ft gainCloudland Trail is an out-and-back trail offering up expansive views of the surrounding area especially from Roan Bluff. This trail is located near Bakersville, North Carolina. With minimal ups and downs, this makes for a decent family-friendly option. The trail is also dog friendly on-leash.Read more -
Morganton, North Carolina
Camp at the Chimneys in the Linville Wilderness
5.01 mi / 138 ft gainThe Chimneys area is a lesser-known camping destination within the Linville Wilderness. The Chimneys are a series of rock formations that rise above Linville Gorge and provide unobstructed panoramic views of the gorge and surrounding mountains. These rocks sit adjacent to Table Rock which hosts w...Read more -
Morganton, North Carolina
Little Table Rock Trail
5.02.73 mi / 1148 ft gainLittle Table Rock Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Morganton, North Carolina.Read more -
Morganton, North Carolina
Hike to the Summit of Table Rock Mountain
4.72.2 mi / 572 ft gainOff of Highway 181, the trailhead is very clearly marked with a large parking lot. Although the trail is fairly short, make sure you have your footing, because the trail does switch back and forth in addition to gaining elevation -- it's pretty steep in some places! It's all worth it when you get...Read more -
Cherokee, North Carolina
Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway from the Southern Terminus
5.0The pinpoint for this particular entrance starts just outside of Cherokee, North Carolina, following the Parkway North. They say the Blue Ridge Parkway is more than just a road, it's a beautiful journey. Start this journey and you will quickly find this to be true. This 469 mile gateway connects...Read more -
Newland, North Carolina
Linville Falls Trail
4.10.98 mi / 177 ft gainLinville falls is one of North Carolina's treasures and perhaps the most photographed water fall in the state. Bring the whole family out and explore the area surrounding the falls. There are about 4 total miles of trails meandering around and through the gorge and right up to the falls. There ar...Read more -
Bakersville, North Carolina
Appalachian Trail: Carvers Gap to Roan Mountain
5.06.98 mi / 1204 ft gainAppalachian Trail: Carvers Gap to Roan Mountain is an out-and-back trail near Bakersville, North Carolina. This trail is not too crowded, so don't be surprised if you're the only one taking in the view. Keep in mind the 1200+ foot climb along this trail if you're accustomed to hiking a longer dis...Read more -
Bakersville, North Carolina
Appalachian Trail: Carvers Gap to Yellow Mountain Barn
12.28 mi / 2720 ft gainAppalachian Trail: Carvers Gap to Yellow Mountain Barn is a loop trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Bakersville, North Carolina.Read more -
Bakersville, North Carolina
Grassy Ridge Bald in the Roan Highlands
4.94.84 mi / 932 ft gainOnce you've parked at Carver's Gap (5500'), the trailhead is pretty easy to find. Simply cross the highway and jump onto the Appalachian Trail, right on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. Head north on the AT as you head through the Roan Mountain Balds. In the very beginning of the hike,...Read more -
Bakersville, North Carolina
Round Bald via Carver's Gap
4.31.72 mi / 338 ft gainThis super easy hike to the campsites near Round Bald is the perfect intro to backpacking for kids or newbies, but serves just as well for the more experienced backpackers who can't squeeze a longer trip in over the weekend. This short (.5 mile) hike in leads to a grassy opening with amazing vie...Read more -
Bakersville, North Carolina
Backpack to Overmountain Shelter in the Roan Highlands
5.05.5 mi / 900 ft gainStarting from the Carver Gap Parking area (do not leave belongings visible in your vehicle) head North on the Appalachian Trail (cross the road and head up the hill past the kiosk). Stay on the Appalachian Trail for 5.5 miles climbing across open balds and treking through forests and wildflower p...Read more
