Exploring Western NC
Trip Details:
Escape to the heart of Appalachia, with mountains on every side and the smell of brisk forests captivating you, before losing yourself in the vibrant energy of Asheville.
Type: Anything up to a full week
Destinations: Chimney Rock State Park, Western North Carolina Nature Center, Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center, Downtown Asheville, The Biltmore
Hotels: Endless amounts in and around Asheville
Hampton Inn Asheville-Tunnel Rd. - Easy choice around the outskirts of the city
Using Google Maps, you can copy and paste the location name or coordinates into the google map search to find the Visitor Center/Main Office, since most do not have exact locations listed on their maps. It is recommended to visit, obtain a map, and talk with the Rangers about the park.
Can always pick up a souvenir as well.
Chinmney Rock State Park
Link: https://www.chimneyrockpark.com/
Entrance: 431 Main St, Chimney Rock, NC 28720
Park Type: Mountain, Waterfalls, History, Animals, all the outdoor activites
Unique Features: Animal Discovery Den, Hickory Nut Falls, Chinmey Rock, Plenty of views
The cost for a single day ticket is $17 per adult and $8 per youth (ages 5-15).
Children under 5 are free
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Hiking Trails:
Hickory Nut Falls Trail - Trailhead located at the main parking lot, heading down the stairs to a dirt and gravel path. 1.4-mile round trip out-and-back trial, Moderate Difficulty with serveal inclines heading in. Takes you close to the base of Hickory Nut Falls with a viewing platform.
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Outcroppings Trail - Trailhead located at the main parking lot, heading up the stairs. A 'stairmaster' trail containing 500 steps up through the rock outcropping up to Chinmey Rock. Strenuous Difficulty.
For the easy way up, the main building has an elevator visitors can take up.
Chinmeny Rock
Western North Carolina Nature Center
Link: https://wildwnc.org/
Entrance: 35.579980, -82.494062 | By the round-a-about
Animal Zoo: Adults: $13.95 plus tax, Child (3-12): $9.95 plus tax
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Biltmore Estate
Link: https://www.biltmore.com/
Entrance: Biltmore Main Entrance
George W. Vanderbilt’s iconic French Renaissance château features 250 rooms, lavish gardens & tours. Very large estate expect to spend the entire day exploring.
Many different ticket types including in each season, highly recommended to book in advance
*Bonus*
Explore Downtown Asheville: Broadway St to Battery Park Ave for shops, stalls, and food.