Asheville, N.C., affords residents and visitors alike amazing proximity to all sorts of hiking adventures set against magnificent natural beauty, thanks to the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. Some of the most popular hiking options incorporate the Mountains-to-Sea Trail of North Carolina. This 935-mile trail is made up of footpaths, roads and bike routes traversing the state, with about 190 miles of it comprising mountain terrain running adjacent to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Following are a few favorite sections for enjoying a leisurely stroll, or a longer, more strenuous hike, all within a short drive of Asheville.
Pisgah Inn to Folk Art Center – This 31-mile stretch starts at the parking lot for Mount Pisgah, connecting to the Shut-In Trail (originally built by George Vanderbilt), which eventually leads to the N.C. Arboretum, then the Folk Art Center in East Asheville.
Beech Gap to Pisgah Inn – If you want to make pit stops or pick up the trail at popular destinations, this stretch of the MST is perfect. The 21-mile section encompasses Devil’s Courthouse, Graveyard Field and Skinny Dip Falls.
Mount Mitchell and the Black Mountains – Mount Mitchell – the highest peak east of the Mississippi River – is a destination in itself, but if you want to incorporate a challenging hike into the visit, try this 23-mile stretch of the MST. This section runs from Balsam Gap North (milepost 360) to Buck Creek Gap (milepost 344) on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Folk Art Center to Balsam Gap North – This is a popular stretch of the MST, thanks to such stops along the trail as Rattlesnake Lodge (ruins of a summer lodge built in 1903), Craggy Gardens and Glassmine Falls. In addition, the 22-mile-long section affords expansive views of wildflowers, lush vegetation, and varied wildlife.
Woods Mountain Trail – If you’re looking for a scenic, 13-mile hike, try this section, which runs from Buck Creek Gap (parkway milepost 344) to Woodlawn Park (on US-221). Weaving through Pisgah National Forest, this trail showcases views of Grandfather Mountain and is home to a range of native plants and wildlife.
Linville Mountains and Gorge – Looking for a hiking challenge? Try this section, which travels from Woodlawn Park to Ripshin Ridge (on NC-181). Take in the beauty of Linville Gorge along with views from Shortoff Mountain and Table Rock as you traverse the 35-mile section.
For information about real estate that’s an easy drive from the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, or anywhere in Asheville or Western N.C., please contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.
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