Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.

Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.

Wednesday, May 19, 2021
Learn the Surprising Secrets to a Life of Passion, Purpose, and Prosperity
May 19 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Online

Janet McKee, Speaker, Best-Selling Author, High Performance™ Success Coach, Wellness Expert and CEO of SanaView, is on a mission to inspire and teach you proven and effective ways to Embrace a Better Life; a life that is richer, happier, healthier, and more fulfilling. “Sana” is Latin for “wellness” and her organization provides a “view” into enjoyable ways to dramatically improve your life.

After obtaining her MBA from the University of Pittsburgh and climbing the corporate ladder in several Fortune 500 companies, Ms. McKee became passionate about helping others achieve stress-free successful lives by pursuing a wellness degree from Columbia University. After working for many years to help people achieve greater levels of wellbeing, Ms. McKee expanded her expertise by researching how psychology impacts a person’s ability to achieve personal and professional goals. Based on this work, she has achieved the status of being selected as one of only 200 elite Certified High Performance Coaches™ in the world and has received the honor of being awarded membership into the National Association of Experts, Writers and Speakers.

Ms. McKee is the creator of the innovative and acclaimed Accelerated High Performance Program and emPower 3 Leadership + Lifestyle Retreat designed to help others fuel their passion, positivity and purpose. Through her Stressless Success Shift™, she inspires others to break negative patterns and achieve greater success. She is a vibrant and inspirational speaker who is known for captivating audiences through the use of real-life stories that engage, entertain, uplift and empower people with real solutions that they can begin to use immediately to realize their dreams.

Whether you consult with Ms. McKee directly, or hire her to speak to your organization, or peruse her multitude of online courses and inspirations, you are certain to become more knowledgeable, uplifted and motivated to improve your life.

As the founder of SanaView, Ms. McKee has released her new best-selling book titled, Stressless Success: The Surprising Secrets to a Life of Passion, Purpose, and Prosperity, along with her own recipe book titled, Fabulous Recipes for Vibrant Health, and co-authored a best-selling book with Brian Tracy and other experts titled, Ready, Set, Go!. Ms. McKee is also the Executive Producer of the award-winning documentary, Bethany’s Story about the healing power of food. Because of her passion for healthy living, Ms. McKee spends her free time helping to develop SanaView Farms, her 52-acre historic landmark organic farm nestled in the Laurel Mountains of Pennsylvania. There, she teaches ways to regenerate our land and our health through natural living and eating. A true powerhouse of positive energy and motivation, Ms. McKee is poised to dramatically improve the lives of everyone she touches.

Teaching proven methods to achieve greater levels of energy, engagement, joy and confidence are the keys to her success in helping others.

Saturday, May 22, 2021
WNCHA Outdoor Experiences: Hickory Nut Gap Hike
May 22 @ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Hickory Nut Gap

 

Join us Saturday, May 22 as WNCHA leads a hike in the historic Hickory Nut Gap. In this exclusive hike, on a trail section not yet open to the public, we will explore the history of this area as a boundary and barrier, as well as a route connecting various people and places. Native Americans, settlers, livestock drovers, Civil War soldiers, and plenty of tourists have all shaped the history of this gorge through the Blue Ridge. At the highest point, we will enjoy lunch amid the panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Pastures. This hike is made possible by Conserving Carolina, who have graciously granted us special, one-time permission to use their not-yet-open Ferguson Peak and Strawberry Gap Trail to climb from the gorge floor to the top of the nearby peaks.

Where: Hickory Nut Gap – Ferguson Peak Trail to Blue Ridge Pastures (Parking details will be emailed to registrants)

Distance: 6 miles total (2.9 miles one-way)

Difficulty: Strenuous – 1,600ft elevation gain

What to Bring: Sturdy hiking shoes/boots, Water (32oz min), snacks/bagged lunch, any needed medicines, backpack, hiking poles (optional), mask (mandatory)

Details: We will meet at the designated parking area prior to 10:00am and prepare to hike at that time. The most strenuous section of hiking will be at the start

Pets: We love pets, but cannot allow them on this hike.

Covid Precautions:

Safety is the highest priority of this event. No hike is guaranteed to be safe, and no outing during Covid is either. To minimize risks, we will require participants to abide by these guidelines. Failure to adhere may result in cancellation or a participant being asked to leave.

  • Participants must sign a waiver in advance virtually via Google Forms: https://forms.gle/RiyDnP7EispVx1F96
  • We are limited to 25 participants total.
  • Nobody with visible symptoms will be allowed. Those who feel unwell or feel they may have been exposed are asked not to attend. Refunds are available.
  • Hikers are required to bring masks and wear them any time participants are unable to maintain six feet of separation from others, including non-participants.
  • Social distancing is required while we hike.

Rain Date:

Unless the weather is heavily rainy or presents another severe challenge, the hike will proceed. If we have to reschedule, participants will be notified by phone/email by 8pm the evening prior, and a new date will be announced in short order.

Hike Leader

This hike is led by Trevor Freeman, public programs director for the Western North Carolina Historical Association. He has an MA in American History from East Carolina University and is also a certified interpretive guide. He has served as an intern at Chimney Rock State Park and a trail coordinator in the Hickory Nut Gorge, and considers this stretch of peaks, valleys, forests, and rivers one of his favorite places.

Sunday, May 23, 2021
Backcountry Navigation With A Map and Compass
May 23 @ 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
REI
  • FITNESS LEVEL : 1

    Relaxed

During this class, our instructors will help you understand the information provided on your map, the proper use of your compass, and how to put the two together. You’ll learn about magnetic north, true north, and magnetic variation (declination). After covering these fundamentals, you’ll get time to practice taking a bearing from the terrain and your map so that you can make sense of your position and plan a route. This engaging course is a great introduction to outdoor navigation and map reading!

Dupont State Recreational Forest – Fawn Lake Access Area

Saturday, May 29, 2021
Vehicle Recovery Class
May 29 @ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Exact Location Given Upon Registration For Student Safety

We go over one of the most important skills to have up here in the mountains. How to tow a car or truck without another vehicle.

Learn:
-How to set-up pulley drags
-Use a come-a-long
-Tie knots
-Use towing chains
-Build a car-rescue kit

This skill pays for itself.

For The People Academy is an inclusive high level skills company based in Asheville. Our goal is to create heroes in our own communities.

Tuesday, June 1, 2021
Creative Alchemy: A Six Week Immersion in the Creative Process
Jun 1 @ 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Samasati Sanctuary

Are you ready to engage in a courageous, outrageous, bold and beautiful creative journey surrounded by support and guidance, nurturing and encouragement?

YES! Of course, you are!

Using the thirty chapters from my book, Creative Alchemy: Accessing the Extraordinary Power of the Muse to Transform Your Art & Your Life, as the curriculum, I invite you to join me for an inspiring and magical journey deep into the heart of the creative process where you’ll:

1. Gather the Courage to Create (accountability, risks, freedom)
2. Honor your Muse (cultivating, caring, making friends)
3. Light the Creative Fires (imagination, sacred space, creative rituals)
4. Listen to Life (dreams, intuition, body wisdom)
5. Find Your Unique Voice (self-love, authenticity, destiny)
6. Transform Your Life (community, service, faith)

You’ll also be working together with a group of fabulous creative kindreds who will support you every step of the way and beyond!

Class is open to creators in all creative mediums (artist, photographer, musician, filmmaker), so please share with your creative friends!

Friday, June 4, 2021
DIY Terrarium Workshop: 6in Globe with AIr Plants
Jun 4 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
828 Market on Main

Join us in kicking off the Summer season with this special introductory price! Our workshops last between 1-2 hours and include all information and materials needed to create a fun, living terrarium. This class is perfect for beginners or experienced crafters!

Instruction covers learning about air plants, care tips, design principles, and more. We include everything needed to create your terrarium, from the container and plants to fun additions like shells, driftwood, gemstones and crystals, figurines, and more. A gift box and care instructions are included to ensure your success. Participants are welcome to bring (waterproof) figurines or other design additions that they’d like to incorporate into their terrarium.

Please register and purchase tickets at www.Vivid-Event.com . This is our most popular class and registration fills up quickly! Food, beverages, and alcohol will be available for purchase through our host venue, 828 Market on Main (180 N. Main St, Waynesville NC)

Tuesday, June 8, 2021
The Classic Hikes of the Smokies: Smokemont Loop
Jun 8 @ 9:00 am
Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Smokemont Loop 6 miles | Moderate Forest Walk

2021 CLASSIC HIKES OF THE SMOKIES

Discover America’s most-visited national park with a guided day hike! The Classic Hikes of the Smokies feature interpretation of the history, flora, and fauna of park trails. Hikes vary in distance, difficulty, and location within the park to provide a comprehensive overview of the Smokies, exposing hikers to high Appalachian vistas, streams teeming with aquatic life, the best collection of log structures on the Eastern Seaboard, and much more.

After completing registration…
You will receive an email the Friday before the hike with directions, and more information. All hikes begin at 9 a.m

Friday, June 11, 2021
Virtual Hike Video Premiere
Jun 11 all-day
YouTube
Sarge pauses on the hiking trail to identify plants

Join us AmeriCorps member Shaylyn “Sarge” Sargent for an informative virtual hike to learn more about biodiversity in our region and appreciate how SAHC’s conservation efforts help protect the mountains you love. More details TBA.

Link to join virtual hike premiere via YouTube – TBA

Saturday, June 12, 2021
Local Cloth Open House
Jun 12 all-day
Local Cloth Community Space

It has been a decade-long dream for our local fiber advocacy group to independently steward our own space and now it’s happening! Join us on Saturday, June 12th from 10 am – 5pm for a day of celebration. There will have make and takes, demos, music and snacks. We invite you to stop in and reintroduce yourself.

Our new community-centered space will feature products from throughout our Blue Ridge Mountains fibershed (100 mile radius around Asheville) and bring attention to the rich offerings of our region’s designers, farmers, artists and makers. The new Local Cloth space will feature a classroom, studios, dye lab, and exhibit and retail space showcasing locally sourced items, to serve fiber artists, students, enthusiasts and the general public.

In addition to the new space, we recently launched an online marketplace, Shop Local Cloth, to support our mission to bring climate-benefitting fiber to our regions closets, gardens, and studios. We plan to expand our marketplace, with a dynamic store front in our new space, where members and passers by alike can see what our regional fiber community has to offer.

FREE EVENT! We can’t wait to see you there!

Sunday, June 13, 2021
Backcountry Navigation With A Map and Compass
Jun 13 @ 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
REI
  • FITNESS LEVEL : 1

    Relaxed

During this class, our instructors will help you understand the information provided on your map, the proper use of your compass, and how to put the two together. You’ll learn about magnetic north, true north, and magnetic variation (declination). After covering these fundamentals, you’ll get time to practice taking a bearing from the terrain and your map so that you can make sense of your position and plan a route. This engaging course is a great introduction to outdoor navigation and map reading!

Dupont State Recreational Forest – Fawn Lake Access Area

Friday, June 18, 2021
DIY Terrarium Workshop: 6in Globe with Air Plants
Jun 18 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
828 Market on Main

Join us in kicking off the Summer season with this special introductory price! Our workshops last between 1-2 hours and include all information and materials needed to create a fun, living terrarium. This class is perfect for beginners or experienced crafters!

Instruction covers learning about air plants, care tips, design principles, and more. We include everything needed to create your terrarium, from the container and plants to fun additions like shells, driftwood, gemstones and crystals, figurines, and more. A gift box and care instructions are included to ensure your success. Participants are welcome to bring (waterproof) figurines or other design additions that they’d like to incorporate into their terrarium.

Please register and purchase tickets at www.Vivid-Event.com . This is our most popular class and registration fills up quickly! Food, beverages, and alcohol will be available for purchase through our host venue, 828 Market on Main (180 N. Main St, Waynesville NC)

Friday, June 25, 2021
Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge
Jun 25 all-day
Asheville and Tennessee Mountains

Did you know more than 40 peaks in the Southern Appalachians of NC and TN reach over 6,000 feet elevation?  And, most of these “Southern Sixer” summits fall within Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s six conservation focus areas. (The map below shows Southern Sixer locations relative to our focus areas).

Many of these peaks can be accessed from public lands and trails — such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan High Knob, Mount Kephart, and Black Balsam Knob.

In 2017 we launched the Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge, to challenge YOU to summit at least six of these 6,000+ ft. peaks and receive a commemorative patch! 

Originally started as part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership, the Southern Sixer Challenge has become so popular we’ve decided to keep it going. Since starting the Challenge, many hikers have shared stories and images from their adventures — including the cover photo for our 2018 View from the Highlands newsletter, submitted by Steve Bridges.

Fill out the online form on this page (submit a photo and tell us a little about each of your hikes), and we’ll send your patch!

Saturday, June 26, 2021
Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge
Jun 26 all-day
Asheville and Tennessee Mountains

Did you know more than 40 peaks in the Southern Appalachians of NC and TN reach over 6,000 feet elevation?  And, most of these “Southern Sixer” summits fall within Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s six conservation focus areas. (The map below shows Southern Sixer locations relative to our focus areas).

Many of these peaks can be accessed from public lands and trails — such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan High Knob, Mount Kephart, and Black Balsam Knob.

In 2017 we launched the Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge, to challenge YOU to summit at least six of these 6,000+ ft. peaks and receive a commemorative patch! 

Originally started as part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership, the Southern Sixer Challenge has become so popular we’ve decided to keep it going. Since starting the Challenge, many hikers have shared stories and images from their adventures — including the cover photo for our 2018 View from the Highlands newsletter, submitted by Steve Bridges.

Fill out the online form on this page (submit a photo and tell us a little about each of your hikes), and we’ll send your patch!

Sunday, June 27, 2021
Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge
Jun 27 all-day
Asheville and Tennessee Mountains

Did you know more than 40 peaks in the Southern Appalachians of NC and TN reach over 6,000 feet elevation?  And, most of these “Southern Sixer” summits fall within Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s six conservation focus areas. (The map below shows Southern Sixer locations relative to our focus areas).

Many of these peaks can be accessed from public lands and trails — such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan High Knob, Mount Kephart, and Black Balsam Knob.

In 2017 we launched the Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge, to challenge YOU to summit at least six of these 6,000+ ft. peaks and receive a commemorative patch! 

Originally started as part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership, the Southern Sixer Challenge has become so popular we’ve decided to keep it going. Since starting the Challenge, many hikers have shared stories and images from their adventures — including the cover photo for our 2018 View from the Highlands newsletter, submitted by Steve Bridges.

Fill out the online form on this page (submit a photo and tell us a little about each of your hikes), and we’ll send your patch!

Backcountry Navigation With A Map and Compass
Jun 27 @ 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
REI
  • FITNESS LEVEL : 1

    Relaxed

During this class, our instructors will help you understand the information provided on your map, the proper use of your compass, and how to put the two together. You’ll learn about magnetic north, true north, and magnetic variation (declination). After covering these fundamentals, you’ll get time to practice taking a bearing from the terrain and your map so that you can make sense of your position and plan a route. This engaging course is a great introduction to outdoor navigation and map reading!

Dupont State Recreational Forest – Fawn Lake Access Area

Thursday, July 1, 2021
Cuba Agroecology Tour
Jul 1 all-day
Cuba

During this trip, you will participate in and observe how the Cuban agricultural community has embraced agroecology in all of its forms and learn why Cuba is considered one of the leading global experts in agroecological methods.
— Learn from farmers and food activists about Cuba’s transition to agroecological farming practices and its national policies that prioritize organic farming and hunger remediation.
— Connect with farmers, consumers, activists, NGOs, policymakers, and experts working to transform the global food system.
— Acquire the knowledge and strategies to create just, sustainable, local, and healthy food systems in your own communities.
Agroecology = Agriculture + Ecology
Agroecology is the study of ecological systems as they apply to agriculture. It is a science, a movement, and a practice. At OGS, we like to think of the farm as a system and observe nature as the ideal model of sustainable production.
Agroecological practices strive to incorporate all elements of an agricultural ecosystem—water, nutrients, soil, plants, and animals—to maximize production and minimize impact. Agroecological methods include the following:
— Silvopasture = animals in the woods
— Agroforestry = forest farming
— Permaculture = systems designed to be sustainable and self-sufficient
Of course, each of these methods has been practiced on every continent since humans have existed, though they are only recently being named and defined by the modern sustainable agriculture community.

Friday, July 2, 2021
Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge
Jul 2 all-day
Asheville and Tennessee Mountains

Did you know more than 40 peaks in the Southern Appalachians of NC and TN reach over 6,000 feet elevation?  And, most of these “Southern Sixer” summits fall within Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s six conservation focus areas. (The map below shows Southern Sixer locations relative to our focus areas).

Many of these peaks can be accessed from public lands and trails — such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan High Knob, Mount Kephart, and Black Balsam Knob.

In 2017 we launched the Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge, to challenge YOU to summit at least six of these 6,000+ ft. peaks and receive a commemorative patch! 

Originally started as part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership, the Southern Sixer Challenge has become so popular we’ve decided to keep it going. Since starting the Challenge, many hikers have shared stories and images from their adventures — including the cover photo for our 2018 View from the Highlands newsletter, submitted by Steve Bridges.

Fill out the online form on this page (submit a photo and tell us a little about each of your hikes), and we’ll send your patch!

Saturday, July 3, 2021
Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge
Jul 3 all-day
Asheville and Tennessee Mountains

Did you know more than 40 peaks in the Southern Appalachians of NC and TN reach over 6,000 feet elevation?  And, most of these “Southern Sixer” summits fall within Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s six conservation focus areas. (The map below shows Southern Sixer locations relative to our focus areas).

Many of these peaks can be accessed from public lands and trails — such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan High Knob, Mount Kephart, and Black Balsam Knob.

In 2017 we launched the Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge, to challenge YOU to summit at least six of these 6,000+ ft. peaks and receive a commemorative patch! 

Originally started as part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership, the Southern Sixer Challenge has become so popular we’ve decided to keep it going. Since starting the Challenge, many hikers have shared stories and images from their adventures — including the cover photo for our 2018 View from the Highlands newsletter, submitted by Steve Bridges.

Fill out the online form on this page (submit a photo and tell us a little about each of your hikes), and we’ll send your patch!

Sunday, July 4, 2021
Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge
Jul 4 all-day
Asheville and Tennessee Mountains

Did you know more than 40 peaks in the Southern Appalachians of NC and TN reach over 6,000 feet elevation?  And, most of these “Southern Sixer” summits fall within Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s six conservation focus areas. (The map below shows Southern Sixer locations relative to our focus areas).

Many of these peaks can be accessed from public lands and trails — such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan High Knob, Mount Kephart, and Black Balsam Knob.

In 2017 we launched the Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge, to challenge YOU to summit at least six of these 6,000+ ft. peaks and receive a commemorative patch! 

Originally started as part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership, the Southern Sixer Challenge has become so popular we’ve decided to keep it going. Since starting the Challenge, many hikers have shared stories and images from their adventures — including the cover photo for our 2018 View from the Highlands newsletter, submitted by Steve Bridges.

Fill out the online form on this page (submit a photo and tell us a little about each of your hikes), and we’ll send your patch!

Sunday Hike DAy
Jul 4 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Montreat

Join us for a morning hike at LOOKOUT TRAIL with your dogs and friends. Come with a positive mind set and lets enjoy the hike meeting new friends.

Lookout Trail Hike in Montreat Details
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 1.4 miles round trip (with the option of adding other trails for a longer hike)
Region: Montreat
Duration of hike: 1 Hour
Elevation gain: 623 Feet
Type: Out & Back
Blazes: Yellow
Facilities & Parking: Gravel parking area at trailhead
Features: Pet Friendly, Views
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 here, but the views are impressive any time of year. The trail is steep and includes a few scrambles at the top, but the views are well worth the effort.

The trailhead is marked by a wooden sign that features an area map and other information. The trail is relatively steep but does begin with gentle slopes. Once you pass this section, you’ll cross over the wide, flat Old Trestle Road. Keep going straight up rather than turning left or right on the road. On the upper part of the trail, you’ll encounter some rough and rooty sections, steep wooden steps and, a few scrambles up rocks. From here, you reach the impressive views of the surrounding peaks of the Seven Sisters that can be seen from the rock outcroppings.

Lookout Rock is the official end of trail, but you can scramble up a little further to the top of the ridge on Lookout Mountain. From here, you can go back down the way you came or connect to one of the other trails to extend your hike (the brief Hickory Ridge Trail starts on the ridge top and connects to several other trails).

Friday, July 9, 2021
Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge
Jul 9 all-day
Asheville and Tennessee Mountains

Did you know more than 40 peaks in the Southern Appalachians of NC and TN reach over 6,000 feet elevation?  And, most of these “Southern Sixer” summits fall within Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s six conservation focus areas. (The map below shows Southern Sixer locations relative to our focus areas).

Many of these peaks can be accessed from public lands and trails — such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan High Knob, Mount Kephart, and Black Balsam Knob.

In 2017 we launched the Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge, to challenge YOU to summit at least six of these 6,000+ ft. peaks and receive a commemorative patch! 

Originally started as part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership, the Southern Sixer Challenge has become so popular we’ve decided to keep it going. Since starting the Challenge, many hikers have shared stories and images from their adventures — including the cover photo for our 2018 View from the Highlands newsletter, submitted by Steve Bridges.

Fill out the online form on this page (submit a photo and tell us a little about each of your hikes), and we’ll send your patch!

Saturday, July 10, 2021
Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge
Jul 10 all-day
Asheville and Tennessee Mountains

Did you know more than 40 peaks in the Southern Appalachians of NC and TN reach over 6,000 feet elevation?  And, most of these “Southern Sixer” summits fall within Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s six conservation focus areas. (The map below shows Southern Sixer locations relative to our focus areas).

Many of these peaks can be accessed from public lands and trails — such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan High Knob, Mount Kephart, and Black Balsam Knob.

In 2017 we launched the Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge, to challenge YOU to summit at least six of these 6,000+ ft. peaks and receive a commemorative patch! 

Originally started as part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership, the Southern Sixer Challenge has become so popular we’ve decided to keep it going. Since starting the Challenge, many hikers have shared stories and images from their adventures — including the cover photo for our 2018 View from the Highlands newsletter, submitted by Steve Bridges.

Fill out the online form on this page (submit a photo and tell us a little about each of your hikes), and we’ll send your patch!

Sunday, July 11, 2021
Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge
Jul 11 all-day
Asheville and Tennessee Mountains

Did you know more than 40 peaks in the Southern Appalachians of NC and TN reach over 6,000 feet elevation?  And, most of these “Southern Sixer” summits fall within Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s six conservation focus areas. (The map below shows Southern Sixer locations relative to our focus areas).

Many of these peaks can be accessed from public lands and trails — such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan High Knob, Mount Kephart, and Black Balsam Knob.

In 2017 we launched the Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge, to challenge YOU to summit at least six of these 6,000+ ft. peaks and receive a commemorative patch! 

Originally started as part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership, the Southern Sixer Challenge has become so popular we’ve decided to keep it going. Since starting the Challenge, many hikers have shared stories and images from their adventures — including the cover photo for our 2018 View from the Highlands newsletter, submitted by Steve Bridges.

Fill out the online form on this page (submit a photo and tell us a little about each of your hikes), and we’ll send your patch!

Tuesday, July 13, 2021
The Classic Hikes of the Smokies: Flat Creek
Jul 13 @ 9:00 am
Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Flat Creek 5.2 miles | Easy High Elevation Creek, Mountain Views

2021 CLASSIC HIKES OF THE SMOKIES

Discover America’s most-visited national park with a guided day hike! The Classic Hikes of the Smokies feature interpretation of the history, flora, and fauna of park trails. Hikes vary in distance, difficulty, and location within the park to provide a comprehensive overview of the Smokies, exposing hikers to high Appalachian vistas, streams teeming with aquatic life, the best collection of log structures on the Eastern Seaboard, and much more.

After completing registration…
You will receive an email the Friday before the hike with directions, and more information. All hikes begin at 9 a.m

Friday, July 16, 2021
Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge
Jul 16 all-day
Asheville and Tennessee Mountains

Did you know more than 40 peaks in the Southern Appalachians of NC and TN reach over 6,000 feet elevation?  And, most of these “Southern Sixer” summits fall within Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s six conservation focus areas. (The map below shows Southern Sixer locations relative to our focus areas).

Many of these peaks can be accessed from public lands and trails — such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan High Knob, Mount Kephart, and Black Balsam Knob.

In 2017 we launched the Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge, to challenge YOU to summit at least six of these 6,000+ ft. peaks and receive a commemorative patch! 

Originally started as part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership, the Southern Sixer Challenge has become so popular we’ve decided to keep it going. Since starting the Challenge, many hikers have shared stories and images from their adventures — including the cover photo for our 2018 View from the Highlands newsletter, submitted by Steve Bridges.

Fill out the online form on this page (submit a photo and tell us a little about each of your hikes), and we’ll send your patch!

Saturday, July 17, 2021
Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge
Jul 17 all-day
Asheville and Tennessee Mountains

Did you know more than 40 peaks in the Southern Appalachians of NC and TN reach over 6,000 feet elevation?  And, most of these “Southern Sixer” summits fall within Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s six conservation focus areas. (The map below shows Southern Sixer locations relative to our focus areas).

Many of these peaks can be accessed from public lands and trails — such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan High Knob, Mount Kephart, and Black Balsam Knob.

In 2017 we launched the Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge, to challenge YOU to summit at least six of these 6,000+ ft. peaks and receive a commemorative patch! 

Originally started as part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership, the Southern Sixer Challenge has become so popular we’ve decided to keep it going. Since starting the Challenge, many hikers have shared stories and images from their adventures — including the cover photo for our 2018 View from the Highlands newsletter, submitted by Steve Bridges.

Fill out the online form on this page (submit a photo and tell us a little about each of your hikes), and we’ll send your patch!

Sunday, July 18, 2021
Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge
Jul 18 all-day
Asheville and Tennessee Mountains

Did you know more than 40 peaks in the Southern Appalachians of NC and TN reach over 6,000 feet elevation?  And, most of these “Southern Sixer” summits fall within Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s six conservation focus areas. (The map below shows Southern Sixer locations relative to our focus areas).

Many of these peaks can be accessed from public lands and trails — such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan High Knob, Mount Kephart, and Black Balsam Knob.

In 2017 we launched the Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge, to challenge YOU to summit at least six of these 6,000+ ft. peaks and receive a commemorative patch! 

Originally started as part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership, the Southern Sixer Challenge has become so popular we’ve decided to keep it going. Since starting the Challenge, many hikers have shared stories and images from their adventures — including the cover photo for our 2018 View from the Highlands newsletter, submitted by Steve Bridges.

Fill out the online form on this page (submit a photo and tell us a little about each of your hikes), and we’ll send your patch!

Jackson Arts Market
Jul 18 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Jackson Arts Market

Jackson Arts Market is WNC makers and music festival every Saturday rain or shine on Main street in downtown Sylva 1 – 5. Connect with local creators where everything for sale is handmade. Learn their artistic processes with demonstrations and workshops with live music.
more info at jacksonartsmarket.com

Friday, July 23, 2021
Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge
Jul 23 all-day
Asheville and Tennessee Mountains

Did you know more than 40 peaks in the Southern Appalachians of NC and TN reach over 6,000 feet elevation?  And, most of these “Southern Sixer” summits fall within Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s six conservation focus areas. (The map below shows Southern Sixer locations relative to our focus areas).

Many of these peaks can be accessed from public lands and trails — such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan High Knob, Mount Kephart, and Black Balsam Knob.

In 2017 we launched the Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge, to challenge YOU to summit at least six of these 6,000+ ft. peaks and receive a commemorative patch! 

Originally started as part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership, the Southern Sixer Challenge has become so popular we’ve decided to keep it going. Since starting the Challenge, many hikers have shared stories and images from their adventures — including the cover photo for our 2018 View from the Highlands newsletter, submitted by Steve Bridges.

Fill out the online form on this page (submit a photo and tell us a little about each of your hikes), and we’ll send your patch!

Saturday, July 24, 2021
Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge
Jul 24 all-day
Asheville and Tennessee Mountains

Did you know more than 40 peaks in the Southern Appalachians of NC and TN reach over 6,000 feet elevation?  And, most of these “Southern Sixer” summits fall within Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s six conservation focus areas. (The map below shows Southern Sixer locations relative to our focus areas).

Many of these peaks can be accessed from public lands and trails — such as Mt. Mitchell, Roan High Knob, Mount Kephart, and Black Balsam Knob.

In 2017 we launched the Southern Sixer Hiking Challenge, to challenge YOU to summit at least six of these 6,000+ ft. peaks and receive a commemorative patch! 

Originally started as part of our “For Love of Beer & Mountains” Partnership, the Southern Sixer Challenge has become so popular we’ve decided to keep it going. Since starting the Challenge, many hikers have shared stories and images from their adventures — including the cover photo for our 2018 View from the Highlands newsletter, submitted by Steve Bridges.

Fill out the online form on this page (submit a photo and tell us a little about each of your hikes), and we’ll send your patch!