Hiking trails in Asheville and the Western North Carolina range from easy to difficult, and take hikers past mountain vistas, nature scenes and waterfalls. Here are details about trails for your next hiking vacation.
Check out the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, which traverses the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and parts of Western North Carolina, or walk some of the Pisgah National Forest Trails or Nantahala National Forest Trails.
See our list of suggested hikes, or bring your pedometer and enjoy some Step Count Sightseeing.
List of Hiking Trails and Hiking Tour Guides:
There are 7 Things To Do in Asheville listed on this page.
Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Approximately 300 miles of this Maine-to-Georgia primitive hiking trail spans North Carolina. Voted most popular outdoor destination by Blue Ridge Outdoors and favorite long distance trail by Backpacker Magazine. | 828-254-3708 Appalachian Trail Conservancy Regional Office |
Compleat Naturalist Nature Store & Gallery
A discovery packed nature and science emporium. Full selection of binoculars and telescopes. Hiking guides, packs and hats, nature books and toys. Adjacent gallery features the world's best wildlife artists. | 828-274-5430 2 Biltmore Plaza |
Diamond Brand Outdoors
Diamond Brand Outdoors is Western North Carolina's oldest outdoor outfitter and offers a wide selection of clothing, equipment and supplies for outdoor activities like hiking, biking and camping. | 828-684-6262 2623 Hendersonville Road |
Grandfather Mountain
The highest peak in the Blue Ridge and a globally recognized nature preserve. Endless vistas, Mile High Swinging Bridge, bears, cougars, otters and eagles in natural habitats, picnicking and great hiking trails. | 828-733-4337 US 221 & Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 305 |
Madison County
A recreational paradise! Whitewater rafting, hiking on the Appalachian Trail, mountain biking, horseback riding, hot mineral springs and skiing. | 72 South Main Street |
Pura Vida Adventures LLC
Pura Vida Adventures offers guided rock climbing, canyoneering, biking, hiking, paddling, and waterfall trips in the mountains of North Carolina. Programs for beginner to advanced “Come Experience the Good Life” with us. | 772-579-0005 1150 Asheville Highway |
The Essence Center Spa
A premier day spa in a private cove providing massage, body treatments, retreats for relaxation & lifestyle change, hot tub, sauna, private lake, access to hiking, yoga, meditation and gourmet cuisine in a serene setting. | 828-658-8198 530 Upper Flat Creek Road |



