Exploring Off the Beaten Path Asheville, NC

Introduction

Asheville, North Carolina, is a beautiful mountain town filled with culture, amazing views, and plenty of outdoor activities. But, if you’re looking for something a little bit more off the beaten path, there are plenty of hidden gems in and around Asheville that you won’t find in the typical tourist guides. From waterfalls and hikes to galleries and local shops, this blog post will cover all the best places to explore in Asheville.

Hiking Trails

Asheville is surrounded by mountains and trails, so it’s no surprise that hiking is a popular activity. One of the best off-the-beaten-path hikes near Asheville is the Hickory Nut Gorge Trail. This 8-mile loop trail takes you through the Hickory Nut Gorge, which is home to stunning waterfalls, cascades, and views of the nearby Lake Lure. The trail also passes through some of the oldest forests in the region, making it a great spot for wildlife viewing.

Another great off-the-beaten-path hike near Asheville is the Catawba Falls Trail. This 4-mile loop trail takes you through the Blue Ridge Mountains to a stunning 100-foot waterfall. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush forests, cascades, and hidden mountain views.

Local Shops and Galleries

Asheville is full of unique local shops and galleries. One of the best off-the-beaten-path shops in Asheville is the Woolworth Walk. This multi-level gallery is full of local art and handmade goods, making it the perfect place to find unique souvenirs or gifts.

Another great off-the-beaten-path shop in Asheville is the Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar. This unique store is full of rare and vintage books, as well as a cozy bar where you can enjoy a glass of champagne while you browse.

Breweries and Distilleries

Asheville is home to a thriving craft beer and spirits scene, making it an excellent destination for beer and spirits lovers. One of the best off-the-beaten-path breweries in Asheville is the Wedge Brewing Company. This brewery is located in the heart of the River Arts District and features a variety of beers that are perfect for sipping on a sunny day.

Another great off-the-beaten-path brewery in Asheville is the Hi-Wire Brewing. This brewery offers a wide selection of craft beers, as well as a full bar and a casual atmosphere.

Outdoor Adventures

Asheville is the perfect destination for outdoor adventure lovers. One of the best off-the-beaten-path adventures near Asheville is whitewater rafting on the French Broad River. This thrilling experience is perfect for adrenaline junkies and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Another great off-the-beaten-path adventure near Asheville is zip-lining at Navitat Canopy Adventures. This exciting experience takes you through the treetops of the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Museums and Historical Sites

Asheville is home to a variety of museums and historical sites, making it an excellent destination for history buffs. One of the best off-the-beaten-path museums in Asheville is the Thomas Wolfe Memorial. This museum is located in the historic neighborhood of Montford and is dedicated to the life and works of Asheville’s most famous writer, Thomas Wolfe.

Another great off-the-beaten-path museum in Asheville is the Asheville Pinball Museum. This unique museum is full of vintage pinball machines and is the perfect spot for a fun and nostalgic afternoon.

Live Music Venues

Asheville is home to a thriving music scene, making it an excellent destination for music lovers. One of the best off-the-beaten-path venues in Asheville is the Grey Eagle Music Hall & Tavern. This cozy venue is located in the River Arts District and features local and touring acts, as well as an impressive craft beer selection.

Another great off-the-beaten-path venue in Asheville is the Isis Music Hall. This intimate venue features a variety of local and touring acts, as well as a full bar and a cozy atmosphere.

Local Eats

Asheville is full of unique local eateries, making it an excellent destination for foodies. One of the best off-the-beaten-path restaurants in Asheville is the Chai Pani. This restaurant serves up delicious Indian street food in a casual atmosphere.

Another great off-the-beaten-path restaurant in Asheville is the Biscuit Head. This cozy eatery is known for its delicious biscuits and gravy, as well as its rotating selection of craft beers.

Waterfalls and Swimming Holes

Asheville is home to a variety of stunning waterfalls and swimming holes, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers. One of the best off-the-beaten-path waterfalls near Asheville is the High Falls. This majestic waterfall is located in the Pisgah National Forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Another great off-the-beaten-path swimming hole near Asheville is the Looking Glass Falls. This stunning waterfall is located in the Pisgah National Forest and is the perfect spot for a refreshing dip on a hot day.

Golf Courses and Parks

Asheville is home to a variety of golf courses and parks, making it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the best off-the-beaten-path golf courses near Asheville is the Asheville Municipal Golf Course. This public golf course is located in the heart of downtown Asheville and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Another great off-the-beaten-path park near Asheville is the Carrier Park. This park is located along the French Broad River and features a variety of activities, including biking, walking paths, and a skate park.

Conclusion

Asheville, North Carolina, is a beautiful mountain town filled with culture, amazing views, and plenty of outdoor activities. But, if you’re looking for something a little bit more off the beaten path, there are plenty of hidden gems in and around Asheville that you won’t find in the typical tourist guides. From waterfalls and hikes to galleries and local shops, this blog post has covered all the best places to explore in Asheville. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, local eateries, live music, or something else, there’s something for everyone in Asheville. So, take some time to explore off the beaten path and discover the hidden gems of Asheville!