The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most traveled routes in the US National Park system. The scenic thoroughfare is 470 miles (756 kilometers) long and passes through the mountains of Shenandoah to the Great Smoky Mountains in Western North Carolina. Some of the more popular stops in the area are Linville Gorge, Craggy Gardens and Graveyard Fields. Pass by undulating meadows and gaze in awe at the majesty of the surrounding mountains, or explore the many attractions dotting the stunning landscape of this region as you glide along the roadway's scenic expanse.
Founded in 1916, Pisgah National Forest is one of the oldest nature preserves in North Carolina. Nestled high up in the Appalachian Mountains that dominate the entire landscape of the state's western boundaries, the forest's overall topography is an extremely diverse one. Blessed with the boundless bounties of nature, this lush green progression of primeval woodlands and breathtaking geological marvels is most notably home to the West Prong Hickey Fork Creek Waterfall, which is known for its majestic cascading flow. Superabundant with interconnecting trails for mountain biking, hiking and climbing, the park's grounds are a paradise for outdoor sports and adventure enthusiasts.
Painted from nature's palette, the North Carolina Arboretum welcomes visitors into its abode of rare and colorful species of flora. The expansive gardens cover 434 acres (175.6 hectares) and include designated biking and hiking trails that let you explore at leisure. Arboretum's Bonsai Collection is also noteworthy, which includes nearly 100 different species. These gardens are a must-visit destination.
One of the crown jewels of Asheville, Biltmore Estate seamlessly chronicles the legendary lineage of the Vanderbilts. Nestled in the sprawling Blue Ridge Mountains, the house was built between 1889 and 1895 by architect Richard Morris Hunt as the summer estate of George Washington Vanderbilt II. At its heart is the Biltmore House, a four-story mansion inspired by the Châteauesque architectural style in France and England. With 250 rooms encompassing 8000 acres (3237 hectares), it is one of the biggest private homes in the country. Replete with furniture, artwork, and antiques that exude grandeur, the house shelters an array of opulent spaces like the enormous Banquet Hall and George Vanderbilt's master bedroom. Complete with carved paneling, gilded ornamentation, and intricate ceiling work, this grandiose house is the epitome of elegance. Fronting the house are the marvelous gardens which have been modeled on Victorian landscaping principles, complete with delightful foliage and blooming colorful flowers. Designated a National Historic Landmark, the house also harbors restaurants, shops, an inn, and a gorgeous winery and a rooftop that affords breathtaking views of its surrounding environs.
At this hip and vibrant art-centric district near Asheville's downtown, up-and-coming local artists are transforming old factories and warehouses along the French Broad River. The Studio Stroll is the perfect opportunity to learn to throw a pot, work with steel, and paint with watercolors. Artists will show you the secrets of their trades.
Kids can spend the day at this nature center learning and having fun! Along with deer, foxes and bears, center is also home to red and grey wolves and bobcats and cougars. More additions also include the "hands on" Nature Lab and Educational Farm where kids can pet a corn snake or even hold a turtle.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most traveled routes in the US National Park system. The scenic thoroughfare is 470 miles (756 kilometers) long and passes through the mountains of Shenandoah to the Great Smoky Mountains in Western North Carolina. Some of the more popular stops in the area are Linville Gorge, Craggy Gardens and Graveyard Fields. Pass by undulating meadows and gaze in awe at the majesty of the surrounding mountains, or explore the many attractions dotting the stunning landscape of this region as you glide along the roadway's scenic expanse.
Nestled in Pisgah National Forest, Lake Logan Conference Center and Camp Henry was previously known as Lake Logan Episcopal Center. This facility is set on the banks of Lake Logan. They offer space to host Christian retreats, seminars and conferences. In addition to this, it also features several campsites, cabins and facilities for hiking and kayaking.
Nestled in the Pisgah National Forest, Moore Cove Falls feature an impressive height (50 feet). These waterfalls can be accessed through a short and easy trail which is also child-friendly. Moore Cove Falls are situated in a rather isolated spot, making it a great place for those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Nestled in the Pisgah National Forest, Roaring Fork Falls is a gorgeous cascading waterfall. This 100-foot waterfall is easy to access by car. You can opt for the short and simple hike which is great for beginners and children and revel in the scenic beauty. Enjoy a picnic with your family or bike down the beautiful road which is open all year round. Reach the mammoth Roaring Fork Falls which is set in a picturesque location and get ready to plunge into the cool water.
Founded in 1916, Pisgah National Forest is one of the oldest nature preserves in North Carolina. Nestled high up in the Appalachian Mountains that dominate the entire landscape of the state's western boundaries, the forest's overall topography is an extremely diverse one. Blessed with the boundless bounties of nature, this lush green progression of primeval woodlands and breathtaking geological marvels is most notably home to the West Prong Hickey Fork Creek Waterfall, which is known for its majestic cascading flow. Superabundant with interconnecting trails for mountain biking, hiking and climbing, the park's grounds are a paradise for outdoor sports and adventure enthusiasts.