With the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains all around, there are numerous places that offer rewarding hiking in Asheville. We have listed some of our favorite hikes below. Some are located directly off of the Blue Ridge Parkway, others in different areas not too far from Asheville.
Douglas Falls
This out and back hike is somewhat strenuous and much of it is on a poorly maintained trail, but we think it’s worth it. From the Craggy Mountain Nature’s Trail turn right onto the Mountains to Sea Trail, enjoy the hardwoods, and then take a left onto the Douglas Falls trail. At 3 miles you will be at the 70 foot freefall Douglas Falls.
Douglas Falls is located 18 miles north of Asheville on the Blue Ridge Parkway at mile marker 364.5. The trail starts at the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center parking lot.
DuPont State Forest
DuPont is made up of hundreds of miles of hiking trails and dotted with numerous waterfalls. One of the best hikes is approximately a 3 mile loop with a couple of moderate inclines. It takes you past 3 of the waterfalls and along the river. They also offer pavilions for picnicking and separate trails for horseback riding.
From Asheville take I-26 to exit 40. Turn right, towards Brevard. Turn left (East) on U.S. 64 and go for 3.5 miles to the Texaco station on the right. Turn right onto Crab Creek Road and travel for 4.3 miles. Turn right on DuPont Road for 3.1 miles to the Hooker Falls Parking lot on the right.
Graveyard Fields Loop
This hike is both scenic and relatively easy. After a beautiful drive up the Parkway to an elevation of over 5,000 feet, the 3.2 mile hike takes you past waterfalls and streams. Due to a fire in the early 1900’s certain stretches are virtually treeless, filled instead with wildflowers.Most of the hike is level, but there are some inclines.
Take the Blue Ridge Parkway approximately 37 miles south of Asheville to mile marker 418 where the parking lot is located..
Max Patch
This bald mountain top was originally cleared for pasture. Now it offers panoramic views that make you feel like you’re on top of the world. Hikers should park and take a brief, but moderate walk up to the top of Max Patch. From there the Apalachian Trail can be picked up heading north or south.
From Asheville, take I-40 West towards Hot Springs, to exit 7. Go North on the gravel road for 20 minutes until you see parking signs for Max Patch.
Mt. Mitchell State Park
At 6,684, Mt. Mitchell is the highest peak east of the Mississippi. Located just over 30 miles northeast of Asheville, the state park offers hiking, dining and a gift shop. There is also an observation platform (to be completed in spring, 2007), an exhibit hall, and a mile high picnic area. The lofty elevation encourages flora and fauna similar to that of New England and Canada.
From Asheville, take the Blue Ridge Parkway north to mile marker 355, and turn left on NC 128 which will take you into the park. The Parkway closes during severe winter weather. Call for information (828) 298-0398.
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