Asheville North Carolina Outdoor Activities that Capture Rich NC History

Does the idea of venturing into the outskirts of Asheville, NC to roam the mountain side intrigue you? For the nature enthusiast, there is certainly no shortage of things to do in and around Asheville, NC. From hiking trails to waterfalls and leisurely drives through the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Carolina mountains provide a great escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Having been born and raised in the North Carolina mountains (where my family has lived since the 1700s!), I've come to love the serenity, adventure and rich history of the area.

Asheville, North Carolina activities outdoors are rich with opportunity for exploration, capturing great photos and even releasing a little adrenaline. After you've visited the Biltmore House in Asheville, venture up to the Blue Ridge Parkway for a scenic drive. Celebrating it's 75th year recently in 2010, the 469-mile stretch of highway has been notably regarded (and rightfully so) as "America's Favorite Drive". But it isn't just any drive - look out your window and you'll be able to see the very reason that WNC is regarded as one of the most beautiful places to visit. There are multiple places throughout the Parkway to stop, park and take pictures of the area. There are even picnic areas if you wish to stop for lunch. The Parkway can be accessed by taking Highway 191 near Interstate-26 at mile-marker 393.

Maximize your time visiting the Blue Ridge Parkway by paying a visit to some of the many attractions. The Blue Ridge Music Center, located at milepost 213, is a great place to enjoy authentic blue grass music from May through October. In fact, there have been many historic blue grass musicians to spend time at BRMC in the past.

The fun doesn't stop at the Parkway. For more Asheville, North Carolina things to do for nature enthusiasts, venture south from the Parkway from 276 and you'll be headed right for Sliding Rock, one of the most infamous attractions in WNC for the adrenaline junkie. Just before you've reached the turn off you'll notice a sign that reads, "US Fee Area". If you've ever dreamed of sliding down a waterfall, this 60 foot natural slide provides the perfect opportunity. A pool rests at the bottom of the rock, making it an ideal outdoor adventure.

Upon leaving from Sliding Rock you'll find that you've ventured away from the Parkway and into Pisgah National Forest. For the nature enthusiast who is looking for hiking trails, some of the most notorious North Carolina hiking trails lie in the depths of Pisgah Forest. Many of the hiking trails lead directly to the mountain peaks or to the various waterfalls scattered throughout the forest. Moore Cove Falls hiking trail is a great trail that leads to a unique waterfall in North Carolina. More advanced hikers may be interested in venturing up the mountain side to Looking Glass Rock. At 6.2 miles the hike is a challenge, but the rewarding view achieved upon reaching the top makes every step worth it.

There are certainly plenty of things to do inside the city limits of Asheville, but the rich history of North Carolina truly comes alive when you venture outside the realms of busy streets, architecture and daily life in search of things to do outdoors.