Great Outdoors
Whether you’re here for the weekend or for the duration… a list of places to go and things to do to enjoy the mountains and rivers of Western North Carolina. If you know of a swimming hole or a trail we’ve missed, send a note to [email protected]
Your Gateway to Blue Ridge Mountain Adventures
Welcome to Asheville’s great outdoors, where ancient mountains, cascading waterfalls, and endless trails create one of America’s premier outdoor playgrounds. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely waterfall stroll, an adrenaline-pumping mountain bike descent, or a sunrise summit hike, the Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding Asheville offer adventures for every skill level and interest.
With over one million acres of public land—including portions of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Pisgah National Forest, and nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park—Asheville sits at the heart of the largest wilderness area east of the Mississippi. Here, you’re never more than 15 minutes from a trailhead, yet you can still grab a craft beer and farm-to-table meal when your adventure ends.
Hiking Trails
The Asheville area offers over 100 hiking trails ranging from gentle riverside paths to challenging peak climbs. Our four-season climate means hiking opportunities year-round, each season painting the mountains in different colors.
Popular Trails:
- Craggy Pinnacle (Easy, 1.4 mi)
- Looking Glass Rock (Moderate, 6.2 mi)
- Mount Mitchell (Strenuous, 11.3 mi)
Waterfall Wonders: Nature’s Spectacular Shows
Western North Carolina is known as the “Land of Waterfalls,” with over 250 cascades within an hour’s drive of Asheville. From roadside beauties to hidden gems requiring adventurous hikes, our waterfalls offer year-round spectacle.
Blue Ridge Parkway: America’s Favorite Drive
The Blue Ridge Parkway winds 469 miles through the mountains, with Asheville serving as the perfect base camp for exploration. No commercial vehicles, no billboards, no rush—just pure mountain majesty at 45 mph.
Key Stops Near Asheville:
- Craggy Gardens (MP 364)
- Folk Art Center (MP 382)
- Mount Pisgah (MP 407)
Mountain Biking: From Flow Trails to Technical Challenges
Asheville has earned its reputation as a mountain biking destination with hundreds of miles of trails ranging from beginner-friendly greenways to expert-level single track.
Top Riding Areas:
- Bent Creek (All levels)
- DuPont Forest (Intermediate+)
- Kitsuma Peak (Advanced)
Rock Climbing: Granite Faces and Mountain Crags
The Southern Appalachians offer world-class climbing on granite domes, quartzite cliffs, and sandstone formations. From bouldering to multi-pitch traditional routes, climbers of all abilities find challenges here.
Water Adventures: Rivers, Lakes, and Swimming Holes
The French Broad River flows through downtown, offering tubing, kayaking, SUP, and whitewater rafting, plus nearby lakes and swimming holes.
Water Activities:
- River tubing (May-Sept)
- Whitewater rafting
- Lake paddling
Your Adventure Starts Here
The mountains are calling, and Asheville is your perfect basecamp. Whether you’re seeking solitude on a mountain summit, adrenaline on single-track trails, or simple joy at a waterfall’s base, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer adventures that will call you back season after season.
Remember: the best outdoor adventure is a safe one. Know your limits, respect the environment, and always be prepared for mountain weather. Most importantly, take time to appreciate the incredible natural beauty that makes Asheville one of America’s premier outdoor destinations.
Every trail tells a story. Every summit offers a new perspective. Every paddle stroke connects you to waters that have flowed for millions of years. This is Asheville’s great outdoors—wild, wonderful, and waiting for you.
Ready to explore? Start planning your Asheville outdoor adventure today!
For current trail conditions, weather updates, and safety alerts, check with local ranger stations and visitor centers before heading out.
Last Updated: September 2025
Contact: For more information about outdoor adventures in Asheville, email [email protected] or call (828) 253-2880.