The North Carolina Arboretum
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While Asheville is most well known for its’ foodie, art, and craft beer scene, as well as the famous Biltmore Estate, there are plenty of places to escape the crowds and soak in some much needed nature. During my time living in this amazing cities, I spent at least a few days a week enjoying the sights and sounds of nature at this world-class arboretum. There is a wonderful mix of gardens and hiking trails to enjoy here. For anyone looking to keep it simple on vacation vs embarking on a rough and tough hike in the woods, the arboretum is a fantastic alternative. This 434 acre oasis is located just 15 minutes from downtown, making it an easily accessible addition to your must-do list.
The Quilt Garden
This beautiful garden incorporates the use of quilt-like patterns using plants. The design theme changes every 2 years and the flowers vary with each season, so there is always something new to see. This garden reflects the Southern Appalachian region’s long history of arts and crafts, particularly quilting.
Bonsai Exhibition Garden
What I love most about this places is the incredible Bonsai garden which includes more than 50 specimens on display. The really cool aspect is that each bonsai is cultivated with a special Southern Appalachian touch. This uniqueness really sets this bonsai garden apart from others across the country. The collection includes traditional bonsai like the Japanese maple and Chinese elm, American species like the Bald Cypress, as well as native plants like the Eastern White Pine. Asides from enjoying the mastery of these artistic creations, you will learn more about the process of transforming an ordinary plant into something so amazing via interpretative signs.
Hiking Trails
10 miles of marked, easy to follow trails are conveniently located on-site. Hiking here is a great alternative for anyone who wants to get out into nature without trekking into the unknown wilderness. Options include an easy .75 mile long Natural Garden trail, a 2 mile long moderate trek, and a 3/4 mile trail for the more adventurous avid hiker.
There are lots of plants and flowers to enjoy, although they could use a few more signs. In the spring time, be on the lookout for pinkshell azalea and redbud. Summertime brings mountain laurel and rosebay rhododendron, while goldenrod and ironweed dazzle in the fall, and witch hazel and American Holly in the winter. Various bird species and small forms of wildlife also call the arboretum home. Black bears, while rare, occasionally make an appearance during the spring months. Be sure to look into bear safety tips before you venture out. Fortunately, I’ve never encountered a bear and not sure what I would do if I did! Imagine how scary that would be?!
All of the trails are beautiful, it just depends on how much of a workout you desire. A few lovely pictures of the greenery along the trail system. The Nature trail is my go-to for a quick weekday hike and a great choice for first time visitors.
The amazing bonsai collection. This is by far the highlight of visiting the arboretum. A few of my favorites on display.
Art Walk
Also really cool is the arboretum’s dedication to art. You will find over 200 impressive pieces throughout the property. You can take a look at this art walk guide to plan your visit.
A Leaf Peeping Hotspot
Autumn is my favorite time of the year in Western North Carolina and the best time of year to hike the trails here. Seriously, the fall foliage is incredible, and this coming from someone who spent years living in New England. Weather on the trails, in the parking lot, or even in the bonsai garden, you are surrounded by colorful leaves each fall. A few photos from my autumn adventures!
Special events
The arboretum hosts a number of unique events throughout the year including Sip and Stroll Arbor nights, various art festivals, plant sales, and guided trail walks. The most popular event is Winter Lights featuring nature themed displays and over half a million lights.
History of the arboretum
The arboretum gardens were established in 1986. Frederick Law Olmsted, “the father of American Landscape Architecture,” was the inspiration behind the garden designs. Olmstead designed New York’s Central Park, San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, the US Capitol Grounds, and also the nearby Biltmore. While he originally intended to create an arboretum on the estate, it never came to be. However, his plans did serve as the vision for the establishment of the arboretum. In April of 2016, the arboretum erected a statue to honor his legacy.
Learn more about the garden’s history
Parking, Hours, & admission
The arboretum is located at 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, NC 28806. While admission is free, there is a $20 per vehicle charge. A bit overpriced in my opinion, although it may be worth f you prefer to avoid the hassle of driving and hiking in a nearby national forest. The season pass (which pays for itself after just a few visits) is a much better deal for locals.
April-October: 8am-9pm (gates close at 8). November-March: 8am-7pm
