15 Easy Hiking Trails near Asheville, NC
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11. MTS trail at Folk Art Center
- Distance from Asheville: 15 min (Parkway MP 382)
- Highlight: Convenient to several Parkway attractions
- Hike distance: Varies
The Folk Art Center is the most visited attraction on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Here, you can explore the rich arts and craft history of Southern Appalachia, watch live crafting demonstration, and shop for local goods. From the Folk Art Center, you can conveniently begin a short out-and-back section of the Mountains-to-Sea trail. This portion of the trail is relatively crowd-free and easy in intensity with little elevation gain. The views are simple, yet beautiful. Go out to your comfort level and simply turn back when desired. More avid hikers may want to embark on the challenging 5 mile climb to the Haw Creek overlook.
12. Log Hollow & Logging Road Falls
- Distance from Asheville: 1 hour (Forest Service Road 475B)
- Highlight: Secluded location, 4 possible waterfalls
- Hike distance: 1 mile out-and-back
A simple 2 mile hike in a secluded part of the Pisgah Forest leads you to 2 little known waterfalls. The first waterfall, Log Hollow Falls, is easily accessible via a half mile walk along an old logging road. This waterfall is quite small at just 25 feet, although really photogenic with the lovely forest setting in the background. The second waterfall will be either really strong or weak depending on recent rainfall, so visiting during the rainy season (spring/summer) is a great idea. There are 2 more hidden waterfalls (Upper Log Hollow/Discovery) on this trek, although they require more of an uphill scramble, so it’s best to avoid them if you are seeking an easier nature stroll. Note: the trail is a bit confusing to find. After arriving at FSR 475B begin hiking the Seniard Ridge trail (walk in past the gate to begin the trail).
13. Jump Off Rock trails
- Distance from Asheville: 45 min (4433 Laurel Park Hwy, Laurel Park, NC)
- Highlight: Mesmerizing mountain overlook
- Hike distance: ~1 mile
Just 5 miles outside of Hendersonville, the stunning Jump Off Rock mountain overlook, offers a bird’s eye view of the Blue Ridge mountains. As one of the state’s most gorgeous sunrise and sunset destinations, it’s quite surprising how little traffic it receives. The name comes from an Indian maiden whom (300 years ago) jumped off the rock to her death after her lover was killed in battle. The scenic, slow curvy drive up the mountain makes the trip worthy in and of itself.
Add in a few short hiking trails, followed by an afternoon exploring quaint downtown Hendersonville, and you have a wonderful half day daytrip from Asheville. There are 3 easy trails to enjoy here. The trails are shady with nice forest views – simply a great place for an easy nature walk.
Read more about my experience hiking Jump Off Rock
14. Asheville Botanical Gardens
- Distance from Asheville: 5 min from downtown (151 W T. Weaver Boulevard)
- Highlight: 10 acres of maintained gardens
- Hike distance: 1/2 mile nature loop
One of the best freebies in Asheville is taking a stroll around the beautiful Botanical Gardens. Both admission and parking are free, so this is a real steal in a pricey town. While quite small at just 10 acres, this is a great place for a nature walk, birdwatching, and wildlife watching. The 1/2 mile trail features a number of interpretative signs, helping you familiarize yourself with local plant life. This relaxed nature oasis is the perfect place to picnic or enjoy nature in a low key setting, far away from the downtown commotion. One of the best leaf peeping destinations in the city! Be sure to check out the small, yet interesting gift shop after your visit. For a longer walk, you can connect to nearby Greenways.
15. Tom’s Creek Falls
- Distance from Asheville: 50 min (1250 Huskins Branch Rd, Marion, NC)
- Highlight: One of the most gorgeous waterfalls in the state
- Hike distance: 0.7 miles out-and-back
This under visited gem of a waterfall is a bit difficult to get to, but totally worth the trek. An easy, family-friendly hike of just over 1/2 mile will lead you to one of the most mesmerizing waterfalls in the state. Not only is the path not crowded, but it is lush and shady. During the fall, the forest is ablaze with golden hues. On an interesting historical note, this area was once home to a mica mine. Today, the mica sparkles in the sunlight on the rocks near the waterfall. For a picture-perfect waterfall that is easily accessible, you cannot do much better.
Read more about my experience hiking to Tom’s Creek
