The Ultimate Asheville Outdoors Guide for Nature Lovers
When I am out in nature, I feel closest to my true self. Spending time away from phone calls, computers, TVs, and the constant noise of the city is a great way to get back to the heart of living. If you are a nature lover like me, you are going to love Asheville, NC. With majestic waterfalls, picturesque valleys, and lush forests, Asheville is calling to you. This Asheville outdoors guide will guide you along!
The Ultimate Asheville Outdoors Guide for Nature Lovers
While staying in Asheville I suggest the Crowne Plaza Asheville hotel. They have amazing rooms and a relaxing environment plus so much to do just on the hotel grounds.
If you haven’t been on a nature trek through Asheville, here are a few places you will want to visit:
The Blue Ridge Parkway is known as America’s favorite drive. This is because as you drive the long stretch of the parkway, you can literally stop and smell the roses along the way.
With mile-high peaks, cascading waterfalls, and heavily forested slopes, Pisgah National Forest offers visitors a variety of outdoor recreational activities. This land used to all be part of the Biltmore Estate but Edith sold it off to the government when her husband died.
Related: Biltmore House Tour + Biltmore Estate Pictures Tour
You will find a plethora of things to do at the North Carolina Arboretum including garden exhibits, hiking, and biking trails, art dining, and more.
The National Appalachian Trail is a scenic 2, 174-mile footpath along ridge crests and valleys of the Appalachian Mountains. You can find shorter hikes near Asheville if you just want a peek.
Take a walking trail through Asheville’s Urban Trails and discover the rich history and culture surrounding Asheville.
The Smoky Mountains is an Eden unspoiled. Full of nature, life, and majestic views, you will definitely want to stop by the Smoky Mountains. So many hikes, open-air exhibits, animals, and more.
If you love waterfalls, you will want to head to the Graveyard Fields. You will see exceptional views of rolling hills and towering mountains and beautiful cascading river flows.
Related: 32 Free Things to Do in Asheville NC
Found in the Smoky Mountains, the Cataloochee Valley is home to many historic buildings and the majestic elk of the valley.
Craggy Gardens is the perfect place to capture vibrant pictures, stargaze in the evening, and take in the natural colors of the world around us.
Get a glimpse of the High Falls, take a hike through the trails, or visit some popular film spots at the DuPont National Forest.
Have you ever wondered where the Hunger Games was filmed? Well, when you visit Henry River Mill Village, you get to step back into time and right to District 12 in the Hunger Games.
Mt. Mitchel State Park was established to help people see the true beauty of North Carolina, make sure you check it out.
Visit the real Cold Mountain nestled in the Western North Carolina Mountains.
Related: Everything to See During an Asheville Christmas – Asheville NC
I don’t know what it is about waterfalls, but I find them majestic and as close to heaven as you can get. And, Asheville is not short on falls. In fact, there are about 50 waterfalls you can see! Here are a few of my favorite:
Related: Our Roaming Hearts Waterfall Calendar
I loved spending time in Chimney Rock State Park. This park is located 25 miles southeast of the lovely city of Asheville.
Take a short hike to the Frying Pan Mountain Lookout Tower where you can enjoy panoramic views of North Carolina, below.
Enjoy 10-acres of floral colors and angelic blooms at the Botanical Gardens of Asheville.
What are your favorite Asheville outdoors locations? Share them in the comments below!
