15 Easy Hiking Trails near Asheville, NC
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Asheville is located just a quick drive from endless adventures in the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains. As the gateway to exploring beautiful WNC, there are hundreds of miles of hikes within close proximity. The Blue Ridge region is one of the most biodiverse in the county, with over 100 species of trees, 70 mammals, and over 225 identified birds. Many of these trails feature dazzling waterfalls, others a rare glimpse of high altitude plant and wildlife, and most notably, mesmerizing views of the Blue Ridge mountains.
Even a short hike in the woods will enable you to enjoy the natural surroundings of this beautiful region without suffering through a grueling workout. No sore muscles the next day, no major time commitment – sometimes easy is the best way to go! Enjoy gorgeous mountain vistas and lush views of the forest without breaking too much of a sweat on these featured trails. After residing in the area for 2 years, I have compiled my list of the best easy treks: all are 2 miles round-trip, easy in intensity, and most importantly, gorgeous!
1. Richard Balsam summit trail
- Distance from Asheville: 1 hour (Parkway MP 431)
- Highlight: Hike to the highest summit on the Parkway at 6410 ft
- Hike distance: 1.5 mile loop
This is the perhaps the most interesting site on the Blue Ridge Parkway. At 6410 feet, Richard Balsam is not only the highest point on the Parkway, but also one of the highest east of the Mississippi. This mossy hike through a serene spruce/fir forest is just 1.5 miles RT and relatively easy with no more than a gradual climb. While there are no major mountain views, the fresh scent of red spruce/Fraser fir trees dominates the air. Due to the drastic temp difference at this high of an elevation (generally 15-20 degrees), this is a perfect hike to escape the heat on a scorching summer day. Best of all, this one is really quiet as tourists head to more popular hikes nearby. The hike begins at the Haywood Jackson overlook (MP 431) just down the road from the overlook.
You can read more about my experience hiking to the summit
2. Bucks Springs Gap trail
- Distance from Asheville: 40 min (Parkway MP 308)
- Highlight: Easy secluded hike to a beautiful overlook
- Hike distance: 1.1 miles out-and-back
The short trek to the scenic Buck Springs Gap overlook begins at the Pisgah Inn along the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 408. This is quick, easy 1 mile hike is actually a small portion of the very lengthy Mountains-to-Sea trail. What sets this trail apart from nearby Parkway options is the complete lack of crowds. You are unlikely to see any other hikers along the way. The hike travels through a beautiful hardwood forest with plenty of shade along the way. Near the end of the hike, you will be treated to the gorgeous mountain vista pictured above. On an interesting historical note, you will pass the site where Buck Spring’s Lodge (George Vanderbilt’s mountain cabin) once stood. If you wish to extend your hike, continue on all the way to Mt Pisgah (another 2 miles, moderate in intensity, fantastic views).
3. Nature trail at the North Carolina Arboretum
- Distance from Asheville: 20 min (100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way). Parking fee: $16
- Highlight: Peaceful and shady
- Hike distance: 1 mile loop
The North Carolina Arboretum is located about 15 minutes outside of Asheville near the small town of Arden. Exploring the 65 acres of manicured gardens & on-site trails is the perfect rustic escape from the city’s tourist crowds. Featuring 10 miles of trails, you could easily spend the entire day hiking here. After checking out the wonderful Bonsai and Quilt garden, take a relaxing stroll along the 1 mile nature loop. This trail is shady, maintained, and features a number of interpretative signs along the way. Note: Admission to the arboretum is free, although there is a $16 parking fee.
Read more about my experience hiking & exploring the NC Arboretum gardens
4. Balsam Nature trail at Mt. Mitchell State Park
- Distance from Asheville: 1 hour (Take MP 355 to NC 128 ~2 miles)
- Highlight: Great bird watching
- Hike distance: 0.75 miles out-and-back
Mt. Mitchell, at 6684 feet, is the highest point east of the Mississippi. The park is well worth a visit as it is free, beautiful, and conveniently located just a few miles off the Parkway. The drive over from Asheville is quite picturesque with numerous places to get out of your car and take pics. Asides from the amazing overlook, there are a few trails to enjoy here. The ~mile long Balsam Nature trail will take you on a refreshing, high altitude adventure through gorgeous spruce and Fraser fir trees. The smell of Christmas trees on a hot summer day will have you feeling nostalgic and ready for the winter. The temps can be quite cool here even during the summer months, so layer up.
Read more about my experience visiting Mt. Mitchell
5. Craggy Pinnacle trail
- Distance from Asheville: 40 min (Parkway MP 364)
- Highlight: 360 degree views of the Blue Ridge mountains
- Hike distance: 0.7 miles out-and-back
This short trail travels 0.7 miles up to a magnificent overlook. Although the trail is moderately steep, it’s so short and really a great bang-for-your-buck experience considering the dazzling mountain views you get in return. For those on a time constraint, this hike will not take longer than 20-30 min max. At 5892 feet, the vistas are quite spectacular. On a clear day, the views are simply out-of-this-world. During the early summer months, you may see lovely rhododendrons and wildflowers along the trail. Be sure to check the weather forecast and avoid summer thunderstorm season. Hands down, the Craggy Pinnacle hike offers one of the most dramatic viewpoints on the Parkway.
