Pinecrest Bed & Breakfast

The Pinecrest Inn is an Asheville, NC Bed and Breakfast located a short distance from scenic downtown Asheville. This 1905 English Tudor style inn, listed on the National Registry of Historic places, overlooks an acre of lush grounds and woods and has been restored with elegance and grace. The Innkeepers, Stacy Shelley, Janna and James Martin, invite you to experience relaxation, privacy and pampering. We take great pride in providing our guests with gracious Asheville accommodations and warm hospitality and look forward to helping you enjoy your visit to Asheville.

Step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax on the glassed “sleeping porch” amidst the backdrop of natural foliage and landscaped gardens or escape to the backyard where you can take in the beautiful grounds and listen to the birds in privacy. Plan your day’s adventure over a sumptuous breakfast and upon your return enjoy a freshly baked dessert.

Explore Western North Carolina

Our Asheville Bed and Breakfast is located close to all that area has to offer. Spend a day touring the Biltmore Estate, take a scenic drive on the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway, hike in Pisgah Forest, visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park, climb Chimney Rock, bike Bent Creek Forest or cool off under a picturesque waterfall in DuPont Forest.

Convenient to Downtown Asheville

On the more leisurely side, enjoy a short stroll into downtown Asheville where there are many locally owned restaurants to satisfy any palate. Visit art galleries, antique shops and the famed Malaprop’s bookstore. Take in a movie at the Fine Arts Theatre, see a play at one of several community theatres, or just sip a beverage, relaxing at one of many sidewalk cafés.

Our Asheville Bed and Breakfast will help you to make the most of your stay–however you chose to spend your time. Take advantage of our Pinecrest Inn Weekend Getaway Specials to Asheville.

In 1913 Richard Sharp Smith, the lead architect for the Biltmore Estate, was commissioned to design an addition to the house for Mrs. Alexander Cowley. Initially the house was an asymmetrical cottage that included only the right turret and a simple entrance. When the sister of Mrs. Cowley moved into the residence in 1907, she requested a bedroom in an identical bayed turret. While in the planning stages of the left turret, Richard Sharp Smith included the rear ‘sleeping porch’ and redesigned the front porch and entrance. The end product is a symmetrical front facade, something Mr. Smith refused in other Montford designs. The name ‘Pinecrest’ was officially deeded to the house in 1928. Garland and Eunice Wible purchased Pinecrest in 1941 from the heir of Mrs. Cowley’s estate and operated it as a rooming house for many years. In the 50′s the upstairs was turned into an apartment. Descendants of Garland and Eunice Wible lived in Pinecrest until 1997. Richard and Barbara Newell purchased Pinecrest in 1997 and began renovations to restore the house to its previous elegance. Pinecrest Bed and Breakfast, an Asheville Inn, began operations in 1999.
 

In 2003 Janna and James Martin and their daughter Stacy Shelley purchased Pinecrest and are the current Owners/Innkeepers. The family is originally from the Midwest. All three graduated from Indiana University. Janna and Jim were enjoying retirement when Stacy, then living in Florida proposed that they buy a bed and breakfast. Having stayed in B & B’s throughout Europe, developing affection for cooking and a sincere enjoyment of people, a B & B sounded like a marvelous idea. After researching many cities, drawn by its natural beauty, they settled on Asheville in the summer of 2003. Janna and Jim are the resident innkeepers. While they all wear many hats, over the years Jim has primarily taken care of the gardens and property, while Janna is the smiling face at the front door greeting guests. Stacy manages the business and is responsible for almost all of the food preparation. Stacy is also married and has three children living in north Asheville. Rounding out the family is another daughter who lives with her husband and two children in Aiken, S.C.

We offer a multi-course breakfast which changes daily. It doesn’t matter how long you stay, you will not be served the same food twice. Our Asheville breakfast is served at 9:00 am and depending on the number of guests is served either on the glass enclosed sun porch or the formal dining room. In the afternoon you will find a tempting dessert which can include freshly baked cookies, chocolate cupcakes, lemon glazed pound cake, cream cheese iced carrot cakes, rich pecan bars, or gooey brownies… just to name a few. Hot tea and cold beverages are available throughout the day.

The quality of food that we serve is very important to us here at Pinecrest. We use organic ingredients, when available, and in season, from area farmers at tailgate markets. Our breakfast meats are purchased directly from Hickory Nut Gap Farm, a local 4th generation farming family, who produce high quality ethically- raised meats. We are more than happy to accommodate special dietary needs.

Our breakfasts include

Fresh ground coffee, tea and juice
Home baked breakfast breads, muffins, apple cranberry stuffed turnovers, blueberry coffee cake or scones
Fresh seasonal fruit dish such as poached pears in wine and pomegranate reduction, fresh berries with a ricotta orange cream, fresh peaches or granola yogurt fruit parfait

Our signature breakfast entrees…
Chiabatta Orange French Toast with homemade syrup and crisp thick cut bacon
Farmers Market Frittata with freshly grated parmesan Reggiano cheese
Sweet Potato Pancakes with homemade praline pecan syrup and breakfast sausage patties
Fresh Blueberry Waffles with whipped up cream
Eggs Benedict with tomato and chives

Directions to Property:
Heading East on I-240, Exit at 4C (Montford). Turn right onto Haywood St. then right onto Montford Ave. Turn right at 2nd light onto W. Chestnut St. Turn left at the blinking light onto Cumberland Ave. Pinecrest is located just 4/10 of a mile on the right.

Heading West, Exit 4C from I-240 puts you directly onto Montford Ave.

Directions from Airport:
From the Airport head North on I-26 follow the signs to Asheville I-240 East. Once on I-240 East follow to exit 4C (Montford). Turn right onto Haywood St. then right onto Montford Ave. Turn right at 2nd light onto W. Chestnut St. Turn left at blinking light onto Cumberland Ave. Pinecrest is located just 4/10 of a mile on the right.

Historic Places and Museums

Biltmore Estate
Located in Asheville, North Carolina, Biltmore Estate was the vision of George W. Vanderbilt, who first opened his country house to friends and family on Christmas Eve 1895. America’s largest home, the 250-room French Renaissance chateau exhibits the family’s original collection of furnishings, art and antiques. Biltmore Estate encompasses over 8,000 acres including renowned gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the father of American landscape architecture. Also included on the grounds is the award-winning Biltmore Estate Winery, which offers tours and tastings, the four-star Inn on Biltmore Estate, the Equestrian Center and other outdoor activities.

Thomas Wolfe Memorial
Considered by many to be one of the giants of 20th Century American Literature, Thomas Wolfe immortalized his childhood home in his epic autobiographical novel, Look Homeward, Angel. Wolfe’s colorful portrayal of his family, his hometown of Asheville, North Carolina, and the Old Kentucky Home boarding house earned the historic Victorian home a place as one of American Literature’s most famous landmarks as the Thomas Wolfe Memorial.

Asheville Arts Museum
The Asheville Art Museum annually presents an exciting, inviting and active schedule of exhibitions and public programs based on its permanent collection of 20th and 21st century American art. Any visit will also include experiences with works of significance to Western North Carolina’s cultural heritage including Studio Craft, Black Mountain College and Cherokee artists. Special exhibitions feature renowned regional and national artists and explore issues of enduring interest. The Museum also offers a wide array of innovative, inspiring and entertaining educational programs for people of all ages.

Theatre, Music, Festivals and Spas

Theatres
Diane Wortham Theatre at Pack Place
In the heart of the Pack Square Cultural District is the city’s finest theatre, the Diana Wortham Theatre, an intimate 500 seat theatre inside the Pack Place complex, with convenient off-street parking and numerous restaurants within on block of the theatre. The theatre offers live performances of music, theatre and dance throughout the year by nationally touring artists (the Mainstage Series) as well as a wide array of performances by professional and avocational regional arts groups.

Asheville Community Theatre
Come see community theatre at its best. The theatre is Located in downtown Asheville.

Fine Arts Theatre
Are commercial hyped big budget studio films not your cup of tea? Are you a fan of first-run independent films or foreign films? Well if you answered yes for either, then kick back and enjoy something different at the Fine Arts Theater in downtown Asheville. A dazzling array of art and independent films keep Asheville in the loop of being one of the few places in Western North Carolina where patrons who love the art of filmmaking can truly be fulfilled

Music
Tressa’s
Downtown Jazz and Blues
Grey Eagle
Tavern and Live Music Hall
Modaddy’s
Jazz and Blues
The Orange Peel
Live Music Hall
Jack of the Wood
Celtic style pub l with live music

Festivals

Mountain Sports Festival
May 29, 2009 to May 31, 2009
Whether you’re a hardcore athlete or a newbie trying an event for the first time, the Mountain Sports Festival offers something for you. From intense trail running to laid-back disc golf, from adventure racing to the Iron Kids events, from high speed track racing to whitewater kayak clinics.

2009 Downtown after Five
The concert series is the 3rd Friday of the month May through September on North Lexington Avenue in downtown Asheville. Music starts at 5:15pm and goes until 9pm.

Bele Chere
Jul 24, 2009 to Jul 26, 2009
Bele Chere is the largest free street festival in the Southeast, held in beautiful downtown Asheville each July. Arts & crafts, food, entertainment, interactive events, and a children’s activity area will fill the streets, drawing about 300,000 visitors throughout the three-day event.

Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands
It’s the 62nd season of the bi-annual Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands, July 16-19 and October 15-18, 2009. The Craft Fair is an event where connoisseurs and novices alike come to craft a collection, connect with tradition, and invest in regional culture. The Craft Fair takes place in beautiful downtown Asheville at the Civic Center

37th Annual Village Art & Craft Fair
Aug 01, 2009 to Aug 02, 2009
The fair hosts 125 exhibitors from 20 states, representing the full spectrum of craft media – jewelry, ceramic, wood, fiber, metals, two-dimensional art and more. The craft fair is a great opportunity to encounter new artists and to talk with crafters one-on-one. Most exhibitors are not represented at New Morning Gallery, so visitors are sure to find new treasures along with a few old favorites.

Shindig On The Green
Aug 08, 2009 to Sep 05, 2009
Enjoy unique performances of hundreds of the best traditional musicians and dancers from across western North Carolina celebrating the treasured cultural heritage of the Southern Appalachian Mountains

Brew Grass Festival
Sep 19, 2009
Each year in the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina, we gather over 30 American breweries to showcase more than 100 different beers. We add a great lineup of national and regional bluegrass musicians. We also feature a variety of area food vendors and plenty of water. Put all these things together and you have the ingredients for the perfect beer

Lake Eden Arts Festival
Oct 15, 2009 to Oct 18, 2009
Enjoy a full weekend of art, music, and outdoor fun in a beautiful mountain lake setting. Experience cultural enrichment from all over the world!

Day Spa’s
Sensibilities Day Spa
Welcome to Sensibilities Day Spa, Asheville’s oldest establishment dedicated to your health, wellness and relaxation. While visiting North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains or the Biltmore Estate, we invite you to join us for an afternoon of luxurious spa services. Relax and refresh at one of our beautiful locations – historic downtown or Biltmore Park in south Asheville.

Shoji Retreats
An outdoor Japanese style hot tub retreat, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shoji Retreat is just 8-10 minutes east of downtown.

Art Galleries, Shopping and Antiquing
Art Galleries
Downtown Galleries
Whether you call them “art walks”, “gallery hops or “studio strolls”, it all means one thing, lots of great Asheville art and an opportunity to connect with artists and other local art lovers. If this atmosphere sounds like your cup of tea, then you should check out one of the five annual City Center Art Walks that take place on the first Friday of April, June, August, and October between 5-8pm. Pick up a map at any of the 29 participating galleries or at the Chamber of Commerce and stroll, crawl, hop, or just walk your way through many fine galleries in Downtown Asheville.

River Arts District
This is another example of an emerging area in Asheville. The burgeoning River Arts District is home to a fresh approach to art. Old abandoned factories have been refurbished into studios and galleries for Asheville artists to display a wide array of art mediums. Each building has its own vibe, from youthful contemporary, to traditional folk; this is a great area to see the “hidden” art scene in Asheville. If looking to buy, one can also find some awesome deals. During normal hours, most galleries are open to the public, however twice a year, on the 2nd full weekend of June and November from 10-6pm, all of the galleries and studios are open for tours, meet-and-greet with the artists, or purchasing some very fine artwork.

Folk Art Center
Nestled among the pines and dogwoods of the Blue Ridge Parkway., yet only a few miles from Asheville, the Folk Art Center is the Southern Highland Craft Guild’s flagship facility. The Center showcases the finest in traditional and contemporary craft of the Southern Appalachians. It houses the Guild’s century-old Allanstand Craft Shop, exhibitions in three galleries, a library and an auditorium.

16 Patton
Features original work by regional artists presented in an intimate gallery setting. We specialize in fine art for residential and private collectors, including paintings, sculpture, glass, ceramics

Ariel Gallery
Asheville’s contemporary craft collective featuring Fine Craft from 10 preeminent local artists of the Western North Carolina Mountains.

Asheville Gallery of Art
Welcome to the Asheville Gallery of Art where visitors, collectors, interior designers – anyone with an eye for fine art will find a wide range of talents, subjects, styles and mediums as broad as the Blue Ridge, at prices to accommodate every budget. Portraits and site specific or general commissions are also available.

Blue Spiral
Founded in 1991, Blue Spiral 1 presents the works of Southeastern artists and object makers in elegant and spacious surroundings.

The Haen Gallery
Committed to providing access to stunning and unique artwork for discerning collectors and our community in general. Our offerings will reflect the character and sensibilities of this wonderful region.

Kress Gallery
The collection represents the creativity of more than 80 distinguished regional artists and craftspeople and is showcased in the spacious splendor of the historic Kress building in downtown Asheville. The Kress building is an important architectural landmark, built in 1928, featuring exquisitely detailed polychrome terra cotta tile in neoclassical motifs.

Mountain Made
Regional crafts, including jewelry, pottery, glass, wood, and metal. Local books and music. Owned by nonprofit Mountain BizWorks.

Grovewood Gallery
Located in a 1917 English-style cottage in Asheville, North Carolina, is a destination gallery that radiates old world charm. Grovewood exhibits 9,000 square-feet of handmade American crafts by more than 500 artisans. The gallery features ceramics, glass, jewelry, garden sculpture, and an impressive second floor studio furniture collection. Come see for yourself why Grovewood Gallery is considered one of Western North Carolina’s premier showcases for fine American craft.
The Satellite Gallery
Graffiti Art and Folk Art
Woolworth Walk
There are now more than 150 exhibiting artists and artisans selling and making jewelry, fine art, decorative art and crafts in its nearly 20,000 square feet of air-conditioned, quality display and studio space.
Shopping

Biltmore Village
Originally constructed as housing for the employees of George Vanderbilt and his estate, the Biltmore Village recreates the old-fashioned atmosphere of a Victorian-era mountain community. Declared a historical site in 1979, today the Biltmore Village is home to over 30 unique shops, exquisite galleries and many fine, independent and locally owned restaurants. Most businesses are housed in historic cottages that are outlined with brick sidewalks and tree-lined streets, giving the Biltmore Village a charming ambiance. Slightly more upscale, and with a similar uniqueness to downtown Asheville, this is a delightful area to stroll through and explore.

Grove Arcade
Built by E.W. Grove, the visionary and creator of the Grove Park Inn, the Grove Arcade opened in 1929 and thrived until World War II as one of the country’s leading public markets. The historically renovated Grove Arcade has once again returned as a premier Asheville destination featuring the best this region has to offer from delicious dining, to one-of-a-kind art and an outdoor market where local merchants and artisans peddle their wares.

Antiques
Biltmore Station Antiques
Blue Mountain Stained Glass
Bryant Antiques
Chatsworth Art & Antiques
Estate Jewelry
Fireside Antiques
Grovewood Gallery
Preservation Hall
Reflections of the Past
Screen Door
Sweeten creek Antiques
The Swan’s Nest
Tobacco Barn
Thrill of the Hunt
Village Antiques

The Asheville area, named a must-see destination in 2007 by Frommer’s and one of a dozen top travel destinations in the world, citing a thriving arts community, diverse outdoor adventures, a vibrant and inviting downtown, numerous historic and architectural attractions, unique shopping , local arts, cuisine. Asheville has also been recognized for its splendors by dozens of magazines, Web sites and publications in recent years, ranging from the designation by Frommer’s to being selected by AARP magazine as a top 15 dream town. In 2008, Topretirements.com found Asheville to still be the runaway favorite dream retirement town.
 

Outdoor recreation and outdoor adventures are seemingly endless in the Western North Carolina Mountains, the outdoor playground of the Southeast. The great outdoors here are so spectacular that they netted Asheville the ranking of number 1 of 10 Great Adventure Towns by National Geographic Adventure magazine.  Visitors enjoy whitewater rafting, mountain biking, hiking and experiencing the highest peaks in the entire Eastern U.S.

Downtown Asheville is a rare place. Asheville skipped the urban renewal process that stripped the character from many downtowns. Today, its rich architectural legacy with its mix of Art Deco, Beaux Arts and Neoclassical styles is the perfect backdrop to the city’s energy. Artists and street musicians converge with tourists and locals for vibrancy rarely found in a city of this size. There is always something happening downtown. People sip cups of Joe at one of several locally-owned coffee shops; sample a pint at one of the cities many breweries or listen to live music at a local club. They go on art walks, winding their way through downtown’s 30-plus galleries. Shoppers inspect unique boutique finds, or simply enjoy fine cuisine.

Asheville restaurants run the gamut from Mexican-California fusion to eclectic international Vegetarian and four-star cuisine to down-home cooking. The city’s vibrant restaurant scene goes well beyond its Southern cooking roots. Expect the extraordinary in Asheville, whether it’s organic, hormone-free beef, mountain trout caviar or sweet potato salad. Asheville is abundant with local Farmers Markets, many of them exclusively organic, providing chef’s with seasonal offerings and the freshest produce. There are several local farm to table restaurants, the newest being Nova, a downtown locale dedicated to using local ingredients. Asheville is also a great spot to relax at one of the many sidewalk cafes. Many restaurants also feature live music from jazz to bluegrass.

Asheville’s seasons are a palette of colors and experiences. Asheville blossoms every spring so take a scenic drive or hike the surrounding forests. Summertime in Asheville is alive with music, festivals and performances. Take a picturesque drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway and see some of the best foliage in the east. Asheville’s splendid mix of mild temperatures with its proximity to snow-covered mountains makes it the ideal winter destination. Celebrate the holiday season in Asheville and visit the Biltmore Estate in all its festive splendor. In Asheville, you’ll find plenty to do no matter what time of year it is and here at Pinecrest we will help you, in any way we can, to ensure that your Asheville experience is everything you want it to be.

Natural Attractions
Blue Ridge Parkway
Constructed in the 1930′s as a way to create work for the thousands of locals unemployed by the Great Depression, the Blue Ridge Parkway, “America’s Favorite Drive,” winds some 469 miles through mountain cuts and past ostensibly endless vistas. Split-rail fences, old farmsteads, lush greenery, mountains, and valleys are some of the many attractions the parkway incorporates. The parkway also offers visitor centers, camp grounds, picnic areas, trails, and in some instances lodges, restaurants, gas stations, and other facilities.
Mount Mitchell State Park
From milepost 355.4 on the Blue Ridge Parkway take NC Highway 128 to Mt. Mitchell. At 6,684 feet, Mt. Mitchell is the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi. On a clear day, the 85-mile view of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the observation tower is breathtaking. Allow time to hike in the tranquil 1,855-acre Mount Mitchell State Park, or enjoy lunch at the picnic area. With temperatures generally 10-15 degrees cooler than downtown Asheville, it’s an ideal place to find relief from the summer heat. In other seasons, bring a jacket. There is no admission fee. 2388 State Hwy 128 Burnsville, NC 28714
DuPont State Forest
DuPont State Forest is located southeast of Brevard, and is in what the locals call, waterfall country. This region of Western North Carolina is remarkably alluring, and with a little exploration, at any of the 250 waterfalls this area boasts, one can come to appreciate and recognize just why Transylvania County is so spectacular. DuPont is home to approximately 100 miles of trails, unforgettable waterfalls, pristine lakes, and stunning vistas. To visit many of the falls and beautiful scenes one will need to do a minimal to moderate amount of walking or hiking. From Asheville, take I-26 east to Exit 40, and then take NC-280 toward Pisgah Forest. Turn left (east) on US-64 and go 3.7 miles to the Texaco station in Penrose. Turn right on Crab Creek Rd. and continue 4.3 miles and turn right on DuPont Rd. for 3.1 miles.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The US Department of the Interior says this, “No place this size in a temperate climate can match Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s variety of plant and animal species. Here are more tree species than in northern Europe, 1,500 flowering plants, dozens of native fish, and more than 200 species of birds and 60 of Mammals.” The Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides near endless opportunity to view superb mountain scenery, take photographs, picnic, or hike and backpack along the abundant trails, and delight in an almost never-ending showcase that Mother Nature provides. The Park is located due west of Asheville and can be accessed from many locations.
Pisgah National Forest
The Pisgah National Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts no matter what their ilk. The National Forest offers a wide range of recreating options. To mention just a few, there’s hiking and back-packing, camping, fishing, biking, horse-back riding, swimming, rock climbing, car tour sightseeing, waterfalls, wildlife, historical areas, and a array of exceptional programs to choose from, including everything from lectures to guided hikes and square dancing. If you live in the Asheville Area, this is THE outdoor enthusiast’s playground location. There are so many beautiful places in this tract of nationally protected forest, that in one lifetime you couldn’t see all that it has to offer.
Note: Places of Interest in the Pisgah National Forest include, but are not limited to, the Pisgah Ranger District, Cradle of Forestry, Looking Glass Rock/Falls, Mount Hardy, Pink Beds, Richland Balsam, Bent Creek, Mills River, Davidson River, Shining Rock Wilderness Area, and the Middle Prong Wilderness Area.
Mt. Pisgah – Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 408.6
North Carolina Arboretum
The North Carolina Arboretum centers on education, economic development, research, conservation, and garden demonstration. On 434-acre in West Asheville, the Arboretum is located on one of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the United States. Asheville’s Mountain peaks surround the property’s visual perimeters and 1.8 miles of the Bent Creek stream run through the center of the Arboretum. The staff and other plant experts teach a wide variety of classes and workshops. Programs are available for all ages and range from bonsai demonstrations to nature walks. The North Carolina Arboretum is an institutional member of the American Public Gardens Association. 101 Frederick Law Olmsted Way Asheville NC. 28806
Chimney Rock
Brilliant scenery and awe-inspiring views are what one can find at Chimney Rock Park, located just south of Lake Lure. However, extraordinary scenery is not the only thing at Chimney Rock Park. A variety of rare and indigenous plants, a 404ft waterfall, astonishing geological formations, and special events are just a few of the many more things on can find to do in the area. If your route is 74A, you can also stop in one of the many little towns for shopping, a bite to eat, or stop at a few of the camp sites along the way. Offering amenities for RV camping, tenting or rental cabins, there is something for all levels of outdoor enjoyment. Your four legged friends are also welcome as long as they are kept on a leash. P.O. Box Chimney Rock NC 28720

Waterfalls
Transylvania County, known as “Land of Waterfalls” is located to the southwest of Buncombe County and shares a large border with South Carolina. The rock mountain terrain and high rainfall totals, Transylvania is the wettest county in the state, make this county the best in Western North Carolina for waterfalls. In fact, Transylvania County is home to over 250 waterfalls, including some of the most popular in the entire state. The county seat is Brevard, NC, which is a popular tourist attraction in its own right. Transylvania County is also home to DuPont State Forest. DuPont has several spectacular waterfalls and numerous hiking trails. For this waterfalls guide we have chosen to feature only a few of the waterfalls near Brevard.

Courthouse Falls
Directions: From Asheville, take the Blue Ridge Parkway south until it intersects with N.C. 215. Get on N.C. 215 South and drive 5.2 miles. The Summey Cove trailhead is located at a bridge (which is actually 1 mile south of where F.R. 140 intersects with N.C. 215) and a grassy parking area is on the side of the road. Get on the trail and remember to veer right where it forks near the beginning. Trail Length: Length is 2 miles. Trail Difficulty: Trail is moderate for most and difficult for some.
Looking Glass Falls
Directions: Looking Glass Falls, definitely one of the most magnificent falls in NC, is located within the Pisgah National Forest. The parking area for Looking Glass Falls is just off of U.S. 276 (between U.S. 64 and the Blue Ridge Parkway). Trail Length: Falls can be viewed from the roadside, and there is a very short trail of well-maintained stairs that leads to the base of the falls. Trail Difficulty: No sweat! The roadside view is handicapped accessible, and the trail of stairs to the base is very safe and easy for the average hiker to use.
Moore Cove Falls
Directions: The parking area for Moore Cove Falls is located one mile north of Looking Glass Falls on U.S. 276 on the right side of the road. Park, cross the bridge on foot, and begin the trail on the right at the Moore Cove sign. Trail Length: 0.7 miles. Trail Difficulty: Moderate
Slide Rock Falls
Directions: Take U.S. 276 north to F.R. 475. Make a left onto F.R. 475 and drive 1.5 miles. Take a right onto F.R. 475-B and drive 1.1 miles, at which point you will reach a pull-off on the right side of the road. Trail Length: Falls can be viewed from the roadside. A very short walk will take you down to the base of the falls. Trail Difficulty: No sweat! The roadside view is handicapped accessible.
Sliding Rock
Directions: Sliding Rock is also located within the Pisgah National Forest, not far from Looking Glass Falls. The paved parking area is just off of U.S. 276 (between U.S. 64 and the Blue Ridge Parkway). Sliding Rock is a popular and often crowded, recreational attraction. “Eleven thousand gallons of water per minute propel adventurous sliders 60 feet into a 6-foot-deep pool. A lifeguard is on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day” (Adams, Ken. North Carolina Waterfalls: Where to Find Them, How to Photograph Them. Winston-Salem, NC: John F. Blair, Publisher, 1994. page 49). Trail Length: Very short. Trail Difficulty: No sweat! Only a short walk is required, and the man-made boardwalk trail is handicapped accessible.
Selected Waterfalls of DuPont State Forest
Hooker Falls
Directions: From Asheville, take I-26 east to Exit 40. Turn right off the exit ramp onto NC-280 so that you are driving towards Brevard. Turn left (east) on US-64 and go 3.7 miles to the Texaco station in Penrose. Turn right on Crab Creek Rd. and continue 4.3 miles and turn right on DuPont Rd. for 3.1 miles. You will see a large, paved parking area on your right. The Hooker Falls trail starts from the parking lot itself. N35.19 W -83.85. Trail Length: 0.25 miles. Trail Difficulty: Easy
Triple Falls
Directions: Follow the directions to Hooker Falls. From the paved parking area, carefully cross to the other side of the road and pick up the trail that leads to Triple Falls. Trail Length: 0.5 miles. Trail Difficulty: Moderate with some very steep sections.
High Falls
Directions: Follow the directions to Triple Falls and turn left on the High Falls Trail at the intersection at the top of the hill. Trail Length: 5 minutes’ walk from the intersection at the top of the hill near Triple Falls. Trail Difficulty: Moderate with some very steep section. 8270
Jump Skinny Dip Falls (Parkway South)
This three-tiered waterfall along the Yellowstone Prong drops a total of 30 feet through a rocky bend in an ice-cold mountain stream. Perched on the edge of the tallest falls is a rock that juts over a deep plunge pool. Jump at your own risk and clothing is optional. N 35.19 W -82.99

Hiking
Mountains to Sea (Parkway North MP 380)
The Mountains to Sea Trail parallels the Blue Ridge Parkway on the edge of Asheville, offering trail runners easy access to extensive forest runs. From the Folk Art Center, head north for a steady climb up to the Haw Creek Overlook, or head south for an easier out and back over rolling terrain. N 35.59 W -82.71
Looking Glass Rock Trail (Pisgah National Forest, Brevard)
Looking Glass Rock’s stone face is one of the more recognizable landmarks from the Blue Ridge Parkway. The shear face is a popular climbing spot while the trail to the summit rewards hikers with stunning views. This moderately difficult hike climbs 1700 feet in 3 miles and is well marked with yellow blazes. As with all summit hikes, be careful when you reach the top.
Deep Gap Trail (Mount Mitchell, Parkway North MP 388)
In just 4.5 miles, Deep Gap Trail crosses four 6,000-foot peaks while taking hikers across rocky out croppings and through spruce-fir forests. This trail takes you down Mt. Mitchell and up to the peak of Mt. Craig. Also, don’t forget your binoculars because this is a great spot to catch a glimpse of the Winter Wren and Blackburnian Warbler. N37.79 W -82.25
Max Patch (Hot Springs)
This short, one mile hike on the Appalachian Trail takes you across the 4,600-foot grassy knob of Max Patch, which offers 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks. This is great hike with kids due to the easy access from the parking area. Likewise, kick back with a picnic and bring your kite. N 35.47 W -82.57
Graveyard Fields Trail (Parkway South MP 410)
A moderate 3.2-mile out and back hike through a high alpine valley with two picturesque waterfalls. Start the hike at the lower end of the parking area. Be sure to stop at the first viewing platform to catch a glimpse of the first waterfall. N 35.19 W -82.50

Biking
Cedar Rock Trail (Dupont State Forest, Mountain Bike)
Short but sweet, the 1.5-mile Cedar Rock Trail features a steep climb up eastern slickrock (large slabs of granite) topping out with killer views of Dupont State Forest. Take Big Rock trail from the top of the mountain for a fast, technical downhill over slickrock and single-track. We recommend a loop that includes Corn Mills Shoal to the Little River Trail to Cedar Rock Trail to Big Rock Trail. This loop is about 3 miles. Dupont has many trails so we highly recommend downloading a map from the site below or stopping at a local outdoor store to buy a map. N35.1 W -82.38
RP to Looking Glass Rock Overlook (Parkway South, Road Ride, MP 388 to MP 417)
Roughly 27 miles of steady climbing on one of the most famous roads in America. You’ll pass several impressive overlooks, pedal through a handful of tunnels, and cap off the ride with a view of Looking Glass Rock, a towering dome of granite deep in Pisgah National Forest. Turn around and enjoy the downhill back to town. N35.50 W -82.76
Town Mountain Hill Climb (City, Road Ride)
A classic road ride with a 1500-foot climb up Town Mountain that begins on the edge of downtown. The twisty ride features cityscape and mountain views. Hook it up with the Blue Ridge Parkway (north) and descend the steep Elk Mountain for a 30+ mile “in town” ride. N35.60 W -82.55
Explorer/Lower Sidehill Loop (Bent Creek, Mountain Bike)
This intermediate 6.5-mile loop traverses some of Bent Creek’s most diverse terrain and features creek crossings, optional log rides, diverse woodlands & wildlife clearings with tremendous mountain vistas. After the ride be sure to cool off in Lake Powhatan. N 35.48 W -82.62

Rafting
Raft the Nantahala (Nantahala Gorge)
To get a sample of Western NC’s world class whitewater we suggest heading out to the Nantahala River in the Bryson City area. Paddle eight miles of class II whitewater through a steep, narrow mountain gorge. This classic rafting trip ends with the unnerving class III Nantahala Falls.
Canoe the French Broad (City)
Canoe seven miles of the French Broad River as it meanders from the Bent Creek River Park to the Asheville Outdoor Center River Park. You’ll paddle through the Biltmore Estate, navigate mild rapids, and have plenty of opportunities for cool dips in the French Broad’s deep waters.
Raft the Nolichucky (Nolichucky Gorge)
The Nolichucky River sits in the steepest river gorge east of the Mississippi River. The gorge is flanked by the Unaka Mountains which makes for an impressive wilderness setting. For more adventurous folks we suggest running the Nolichucky Gorge section and for the younger or more cautious tackle the Lower Nolichucky.
Raft the Whitewater of the French Broad (Hot Springs)
The French Broad is calm as it cuts around downtown Asheville, but it’s a torrent of whitewater further west near Hot Springs. Run the half-day trip for an experience chocked full of class II-III rapids, or extend your trip to a full day and tackle the class IV Frank Bell’s rapid.
French Broad Rafting Expeditions
Whether its adventure and excitement of whitewater rafting or the ease and relaxation of a calm water trip, French Broad Rafting Expeditions is the rafting outfitter for you, your family, or your group. 9800 US Hwy 25-70 Marshall, North Carolina 28753

Asheville Outdoor Center
Canoeing, Kayaking, Rafting, and Tubing in Asheville, N.C. on the quiet, scenic French Broad River through Biltmore Estate property. This is truly a unique rafting, kayaking, and canoeing experience.521 Amboy Rd. Asheville North Carolina 28806

Horseback Riding
Western North Carolina is also home to numerous horse rental facilities. In many cases horseback riding rentals are offered by larger resorts, farms and ranches as part of a more complete set of vacation amenities, while other businesses focus entirely on horseback riding, riding lesions, and guided horseback adventures. Below you will find a list of featured horseback riding options in the Asheville area.

Riverside Riding Stables
Offering pony rides, guiding trial rides, 2 hour river rides, and overnight packing trips. Swim with the horses. Located 36 miles East of Downtown Asheville. 1325 Freemantown Rd Rutherfordton, NC 28139
Sandy Bottom Trail Rides
Riding options ranging from one hour to all day rides. Open year round.
Located 28 miles North of Downtown Asheville. 1459 Caney Fork Rd
Marshall, NC 28753-5476
Whitewater Equestrian Center
Horseback ride on the 150 year old Hinkle family farm, with 375 acres of wilderness mountain land, spectacular views and abundant wildlife.
Located 55 miles South of Asheville

Golf
Reems Creek Golf Club
The 18-hole “Reems Creek” course at the Reems Creek Golf Club facility in Weaverville, North Carolina features 6,492 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72. The course rating is 71.9 and it has a slope rating of 133 on grass.  Designed by Hawtree & Sons, the Reems Creek golf course opened in 1989. 36 Pink Fox Cove Rd. Weaverville, NC 28787

Fishing
Asheville Drifters
Asheville is located in the heart of some of the best trout fishing and smallmouth bass fishing in the country. They provide year ’round, world-class sport fishing opportunities in every direction. Whether interested in a float fishing trip for big trout in tailwaters, a wade fishing trip for wild and native trout, or float one of our freestone rivers in search of smallmouth bass and muskie they can make it happen. They also offer winter trout fishing trips.