The first thing to remember when trying to get around our mountains is that using a GPS in the mountains is often the best way to get lost! Also, many mountains roads in the national forests and parks may not be open or in good shape due to use…

A not-to-scale overview map of downtown Asheville to help you get around! Find plenty of restaurants, shopping, pubs, galleries and many other things to do. See our Downtown Asheville Guide for many details. When you are in downtown you…

Near Cashiers is another "Sliding Rock", created by the Chattooga River gliding over a 10-foot high rock face. It's a popular local spot during the summer because the water is quite cool. You can slide down the rock, cannonball into one of the…

Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel sits in the center of Asheville's vibrant arts district, steps from the River Arts District, Lexington Avenue, Pack Square Park, and some of the city's most celebrated restaurants and craft breweries. The Blue…

Explore 1,100 acres of cliffs and boulder fields in Chimney Rock State Park's non-fee area. This hidden gem offers world-class bouldering and technical rock climbing with roughly 1,500 routes—some of the Southeast's best terrain. Fall and winter…

The scenic foothills of Rutherford County include the towns of Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, Rutherfordton, Forest City, and more! Explore the expansive outdoors surrounding these small towns including the Thermal Belt Trail, ziplines, waterfalls,…

Lodging options around Chimney Rock, Lake Lure, and the Blue Ridge Foothills range from lakeside cottages and historic downtown bed and breakfasts to all-inclusive resorts. Find accommodations that match your travel style and plan a visit to…

Flock to the Rock will be held Saturday, September 19, 2026. 10 am to 3 pm. Park admission is required. Go to the website for details. 

From its winding riverbanks to its dramatic cliffs, Chimney Rock is a haven…

Led by birding experts, events at Chimney Rock Park includes bird walks, workshops ranging from bird photography to hummingbirds, hawk watches and family nature walks.

Downtown Hendersonville has the second largest downtown in western North Carolina (Asheville is the biggest), with many things to do, see and taste. Beautiful Main Street serpentines around planter boxes and lush landscaping. With more than 100…

Looking for ideas for what to do on a weekend escape, family vacation or girl's weekend in Asheville and the mountains? If you are visiting this weekend, read our weekly blog post, What's Happening in WNC this weekend. For even more ideas,…

Rutherford County sits in the Blue Ridge Foothills, close to Asheville, with towns including Lake Lure, Chimney Rock Village, Forest City, and Rutherfordton. Explore dramatic Hickory Nut Gorge at Chimney…

Mother's Day (Second Sunday in May)
Mother's Day Weekend 2026: May 9-10 
Looking for things to do with moms, grandmothers, or a special woman in your life in Asheville and the North Carolina mountains on Mother's Day Weekend? Here…

To really appreciate the natural splendor of our mountains, explore by foot. There are hiking trails for all fitness levels, from a short woodland walk to strenuous hikes to mountain peaks, including both the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains…

Be led by experienced movement instructor Shannon Burbridge in a full day of yoga, grounding techniques, a peaceful hike, foot reflexology, and self-myofascial practices at Yoga on the Mountain: Grounded and Grateful at Grandfather Mountain.…

As a mecca for health and well-being, it’s no wonder that Asheville has a thriving yoga culture. With the highest concentration of experienced, certified, world-class yoga teachers in the region, Asheville has some of the best yoga studios in the…

This is your chance to join certified forest therapy guide Mattie Decker for a 2- to 2.5-hour walk forest at Grandfather Mountain. Decker offers a series of invitation to help you slow down and connect with nature. General admission $40. Bridge…

Formally the Yoga Festival, this event is in its eighth year and features 40 presenters and 90+ offerings downtown, including yoga, music, outdoor activities, and health & wellness experts. Passes cost $550, $650, and $850, with a $75 ticket…

Looking Glass Creamery is must stop on the WNC (Western North Carolina) Cheese Trail. Jennifer and Andy Perkins opened the creamery in early 2009. Since then, they have won many awards and continue to expand their small farm. They handcraft…

Note: Elk River Falls is temporarily closed for repair and cleanup through May, 2026. There is no access to the Falls or hiking trails. Check with the town of Banner Elk before you visit!

Located near Beech Mountain…