Ready to hit the trail, but wondering what to pack? Our hiking gear list features our favorite, trail-tested hiking gear for day hikes on local trails and in the backcountry. Hiking gear list: our favorite, trail-tested gear WHAT TO PACK? It’s one of our favorite in-town spots to hang a hammock or launch a paddleboard or kayak, too. Human perks: Easy access from downtown Asheville, gorgeous river views, and nearly-level terrain make this a fantastic spot for a scenic stroll or fast-paced run. It’s long been one of our favorite waterfalls near Asheville.Ĭarrier Park & the French Broad River Greenway 2.4 + Miles (Round Trip)ĭog perks: An off-leash dog park, plenty of places to play in the river, and wide-open grassy fields make Carrier Park and the French Broad River Greenway a perfect spot for a dog-friendly adventure in town. Human perks: The shady, mossy forest is exceptionally beautiful, and the base of the multi-tiered falls is a great spot to relax and enjoy the views. And the swimming hole below the falls offers endless fun. It’s easily one of our all-time favorite hikes near Asheville.ĭog perks: Our water-loving Labrador loves this hike! The trail to Catawba Falls follows the the tumbling cascades of the Catawba River, offering plenty of spots to get all four feet wet along the way. And the remains of Rattlesnake Lodge, a grand 1900s summer estate, are fun to explore. Human perks: It’s a beautiful hike year round, but especially so in fall when the vibrantly colored leaves paint the forest. Human perks: The trail visits some of the most scenic parts of the park, and the dramatic cascades of Bridal Veil Falls are simply stunning.ĭog perks: A leafy hardwood tree canopy provides plenty of shade, and a stone spring at the ruins of this historic lodge provide a spot for a mid-hike drink. Human perks: After departing the often-crowded overlook at Devil’s Courthouse, this hike follows the Mountains to Sea Trail to Black Balsam Knob, catching a bit of solitude and gorgeous views from multiple rocky overlooks above the Blue Ridge Parkway.ĭog perks: Moderate elevation gains, a mid-hike swim in the glassy waters of Lake Julia, and plenty of cool water at the falls make this one of Jake’s favorite trails at DuPont State Forest. Mountains to Sea Trail: Devil’s Courthouse to Black Balsam Knob 5.5 Miles (Round Trip)ĭog perks: After an initial climb, the trail rolls through a cool, high-elevation forest and offers plenty of sights and sniffs along the way. The trail travels through a beautifully scenic forest, and in late spring, the forest is filled with blooming rhododendron and mountain laurel. Human perks: This is one of the most stunning waterfalls along the Blue Ridge Parkway. And small pools at the base of Crabtree Falls offers the a great spot to take a mid-hike dip, making this hike one of Jake’s all-time favorites. Combine several hikes for a full day of adventure.ĭog perks: Lots of leafy, towering trees shade the trail for cool summertime adventures. Human perks: Incredible 360-degree views, beautiful wildflowers, and sweetly scented balsam-fir forests abound on this rugged summit, the tallest in the East. And a small waterfall near the summit on the Old Mitchell Trail Loop offers a great place to cool off after a fun day on the mountain. Dog perks: The high-elevation forest at Mount Mitchell offers cooler temperatures, even in the heat of summer.
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