12 Favorite Hikes Near Asheville, North Carolina

Surrounded by the iconic Blue Ridge Mountains and boasting 425 miles of access through the famed Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville, North Carolina is the perfect place to escape into nature. The Blue Ridge Mountains get their name oddly enough from its population of trees - which emit a mist of isoprene into the atmosphere, creating a bluish haze when viewed from a distance. Here you’ll find thousands of miles of trails that range from rushing waterfalls, grassy meadows, and see-forever views.

There’s something for everyone from short, hour-long hikes to three-day backpacking excursions, Asheville is beloved by locals as well as backpackers looking for a challenge. Each trail offers a distinctly unique experience that you will never forget.

Don't know where to start? We’ve put together the twelve you shouldn't miss.

Black Balsam Knob: Get your heart pumping on this steep 3-mile jaunt with 2,400 elevation gain. You will be rewarded with a 360 clear view at the top. We recommend heading to this spot for sunset - just don't forget your headlamp!  

Linville Falls Hike: The perfect hike for those chasing waterfalls, this quick 1.6-mile hike will please your eyes with an impressive 90-ft tall falls. 

Craggy Garden: Stretch your legs and enjoy lush grassy meadows on this quick 1.4-mile hike. 

Mount Mitchell: Challenge yourself on the Blue Ridge's tallest peak. This 13.1-mile trek scores you views of both the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smokey Mountains. 

Looking Glass Rock Hike: If you're looking for the perfect lunch spot with panoramic views, look no further! Enjoy this 6.4-mile hike to an unforgettable pluton monolith. 

Lookout Mountain: Short, steep, and sweet, this 1-mile gem comes with stairs but grants you with stunning views of Asheville's sister mountain town, Montreat. 

Table Rock: Beautifully tucked away in the Linville Gorge Wilderness, Table Rock offers stunning views throughout the entire 2-mile hike. This is a perfect weekend trip as you will find many campsites tucked throughout the trail. 

Art Loeb Trail: Once named by National Geographic as one of the thirty best hikes in North America, the Art Loeb Trail is perfect for those seeking a backpacking trip. 30.1 miles gives you the perfect dose of what the Blue Ridge Mountains have to offer.  

Woodward Falls: This 1.5-mile hike leads you along a relaxing path into North Carolina's thick forest. If you're a lover of wildflowers, this is the perfect Spring hike. 

Catawba Falls: A local favorite, this 3-mile hike rewards you at the base of a 100 ft waterfall. If you're feeling more adventurous, climb to the top on an unmarked path for the full experience. 

John Rock: Looking for a hike to keep you cool in the hot summer months, look no more! This 4-mile hike keeps you shaded throughout the entire hike with stunning views the entire way. 

Little Bradley Falls: This short 1-mile out and back hike grants hikers with a refreshing swimming hole and a multi-level 50 ft waterfall. We recommend bringing your suit and taking a dip in that cool Appalachian water. 

And once you've crossed one of these off your list be sure to check out one of the many breweries in the area. If you're into sours, Funkatorium is one not to miss!