In recent years, Asheville North Carolina’s cultural draws have the town ranking in many national lists. Known as a visual and performing arts hub as well as a foodie and microbrew destination, Asheville has much appeal for the cultured visitor.
However, long before it’s popularity as a refined destination, outdoor enthusiasts have ventured to this area. Historically, Asheville has been a tourist destination for a century and a half due to its refreshing air, mountain vistas and healing mineral springs.
With loads of state and national park destinations within an hour’s drive, Asheville is the perfect jumping off point for numerous outdoor adventures with a welcoming return to the finest comforts of civilization.
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway, a stunning winding mountain road, stretches 469 miles along the ridge of the Blue Ridge Mountains and passes straight through Asheville. Breathtaking vistas, highland blueberry fields, waterfall hikes and elevation hikes are some of the attractions. Just a few miles off of the Parkway in south Asheville you can stop by some of the town’s finest restaurants for rejuvenation: Tupelo Honey Cafe, Farm Burger and Twelve Bones Smokehouse.
Pisgah National Forest
Though Pisgah National Forest is over 500,000 acres of hardwood forests crisscrossed with white water, some of its most impressive natural wonders are within an easy hour drive of Asheville. Swim in Looking Glass Falls swimming hole, race down the famous and frigid Sliding Rock or ascend Looking Glass Rock for one of the most spectacular views in the southeast.
Chimney Rock State Park
The pinnacle of Chimney Rock State Park is the 315 foot tower of stone known as the Chimney Rock itself. It overlooks Lake Lure, the Rocky Broad River and Hickory Nut Gorge. The river there is a destination for trout anglers and the amazing rock formations draw climbers from across the region.
Mount Mitchell State Park
Just 35 miles northeast of downtown Asheville, explore Mount Mitchell State Park, the highest point east of the Mississippi River. Bundle up for the mile high hikes and breezy picnic! This peak is a popular ascent for road bikers who take the Blue Ridge Parkway from Asheville and distance trail runners who are up for the challenge of the rocky and technical climbing trails.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains National Park just West of Asheville features camping, horseback riding, fishing and hiking on more than 800 miles of trails. There are 6 visitor centers and over a dozen waterfalls. For a stunning geographical wonder, check out Clingman’s Dome at an elevation of 6,643 feet!
Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail, a national scenic trail, winds from Georgia to Maine but comes within an hour’s drive to Asheville in several special points. Climb up to the highland bald at Max Patch for nearly 360 degree views as the Appalachian trail traverses it. Or, head north of Asheville to Hot Springs where you can catch a short section of the trail after soaking in the natural mineral springs, having a microbrew at a local pub or kayaking the French Broad River.
If you appreciate both the creature comforts of a small city brimming with culture and proximity to spectacular natural beauty and outdoor adventure, then Asheville may have a home for you.
For more information on real estate in Asheville, please contact Mike Figura at mike@mymosaicrealty.com or call him anytime at (828) 337-8190.
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