Top Asheville Outdoor Activities

Asheville pops out of the Blue Ridge Mountains, one of the most biodiverse spots on Earth. On this tour, simply meet up with your small group, take a short ride into Pisgah National Forest, and follow the way into the “Land of Waterfalls.” Your guide will provide hiking poles, rain gear, water, snacks, and plenty of knowledge to deepen your experience in this incredible slice of Mother Nature.

Hike the best of the Blue Ridge Parkway on this guided day trip to three scenic waterfalls from Asheville. Take in views of the mountains as you tour the classic road in a comfortable van and hear stories about the area’s natural history and culture from your local guide. Watch for blooming laurels and rhododendron as you walk the easy to moderate trails through lush oak and hickory forests. Enjoy light refreshments along the way with plenty of time to relax by the falls before returning to Asheville.

One of the country’s favorite rafting rivers, experiencing Asheville’s French Broad River is a paddler’s rite of passage. On this guided tour, you’ll raft through four miles of Class II and III rapids, stopping for river dips, taking in the views of the surrounding Pisgah National Forest.

Along the way, your expert guide will share fascinating insights into the region’s rich ecology, wildlife, and geology—bringing the forest to life through storytelling and local knowledge. Rain ponchos and hiking poles are provided for your comfort, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience no matter the weather. Whether you're chasing waterfalls or soaking in the natural beauty of the mountains, this tour is the perfect way to experience the wild heart of Western North Carolina.

Explore all of Asheville in 3 hours on a thrilling E-bike Guided Adventure! This ride takes you around beautiful sites, historic neighborhoods, the Omni Grove Inn and much more. You'll also see what happened to Asheville from hurricane devastation. Take this tour first to learn the lay of the land, the best spots to visit and all the history of the area. Having a guide is a game changer and E-bikes make it SO MUCH FUN!

Fast Rivers opened in 1979. It's the second oldest company on the Nantahala River-- and our longevity is no accident. We're a small business and our goal is to give every single guest a personal, affordable, and downright fun experience on the river. Your trip will most likely be JUST your party, but if you want a guaranteed private trip, we'd be happy to accommodate that (an extra $15 per person.) We have a wide range of guides and we try our best to pair you with someone who will provide you with the type of trip you want. Do you want a chill float, a thrilling experience with rock spins, or something in between-- we'll take care of you! You won't get this kind of personalized experience at the bigger outposts on the river.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the United States' most scenic roadways and this small-group tour takes you on the most iconic stretch. Climb aboard your Jeep and cruise through Pisgah National Forest, listening to stories from your guide and making stops at several scenic viewpoints. Get a close look at the dense forest, observe flora and fauna, and enjoy views of the rolling mountains on this 3- to 4-hour tour.

Enjoy a day of family-friendly fun at Elijah Mountain Gem Mine and Goat Farm. Suitable for all ages, mine for gems and fossils along indoor and outdoor water flumes and keep whatever you find. Explore the property, tackle an obstacle course, visit the goats in the goat barn, and see peacocks, pheasants, and more in the aviary.

Discover the stunning beauty of the Nantahala Lake area on a guided 2-hour UTV tour. Perfect for families and small groups, this experience includes scenic drives through paved and gravel roads, with multiple stops to enjoy breathtaking views, waterfalls, and a relaxing atmosphere. An expert guide will share fascinating stories and insights, ensuring an enjoyable ride for everyone. Capture the moment with plenty of photo opportunities while driving your own 4-seater UTV along designated scenic routes. - Enjoy a 2-hour scenic UTV drive through Nantahala Lake - Expert guide sharing history and insights throughout the tour - Multiple photo stops to capture the beauty of waterfalls and landscapes - Bottled water included; comfortable clothing recommended for the ride

Get onto the clam waters of Bent Creek near the Biltmore property in Asheville on this self-guided kayak tour. Your kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are all provided for you, so all you need to do is show up ready to have an adventure. When you’re finished kayaking, wind down at the Outpost with a beer.

Buckle up and prepare for a thrilling off-road adventure in the Smoky Mountains backcountry, one of North America’s most biodiverse regions which boasts a plethora of flora and fauna. Put your driving skills to the test as you bounce along 15 miles of dirt/gravel trails, cross streams and ascend by 5,200 feet (1.6 kilometers), where spectacular views of the entire national park await.

An epic experience for adventure seekers of all age. Immerse yourself in the Green River Gorge with a one-of-a-kind viewpoint on a 3.5-4hr zipline canopy tour, including: - 11 ziplines spanning 1.25 miles - 3 huge rappels - 1 breathtaking sky bridge

Horseback riding through the Blue Ridge Mountains is a beautiful way to explore the area’s natural attractions. Trot through fern groves, past rows of wild flame azaleas, and into a white pine forest on well-trained, gentle horses. This tour includes a safety training, too, making it a good choice for beginner horseback riders and children.

Asheville comes loaded with two things: great breweries and great nature. On this tour, you’ll get to revel in them both. Your guide will have your raft ready—complete with an ice-filled cooler—and you’ll float down the beautiful French Broad River, stopping at a few of the city’s best pubs and food trucks. This one’s all about relaxing, river views, and really good beer.

This trip is perfect for ever experience level, from beginner to experienced rafters and for individuals, families, or couples! We are the longest continually operating outfitter on the French Broad and our professionally trained guides will navigate you down the river, sharing the French Broad’s rich history, and pointing out flora and fauna.

Discover Asheville’s noteworthy landmarks and architectural gems while covering plenty of ground. 3 Hours (Approximately) tour by electric bike lets you safely navigate Asheville’s hilly terrain. Follow your guide through city streets, greenways, and picturesque neighborhoods. At carefully chosen viewpoints, you’ll stop to hear the stories behind historical sites.

• Guided safari-style Jeep tour through Great Smoky Mountains National Park • Scenic Blue Ridge Parkway adventure through 5 historic mountain tunnels • 20+ mile mountain views from elevations over a mile high • Panoramic overlooks across Cherokee and deep into the Smokies • 99% elk sighting success rate on PM Elk Tours • Explore prime elk and wildlife habitat • Possible sightings of elk, deer, wild turkey, black bears, and more • Visit 120-foot Mingo Falls on the Qualla Boundary • Explore historic Occonaluftee Baptist Church and local legends • Scenic drive across Soco Gap at 4,340 feet elevation • Guided by local Cherokee & Appalachian descendant guides • Authentic Smoky Mountain storytelling and history • Incredible scenic and wildlife photography opportunities • Small-group open-air safari Jeep experience

Gather your friends for a relaxing float down the scenic French Broad River with Beer City Tubing in Asheville, NC. Enjoy the convenience of free parking and shuttle service as you embark on a self-guided tubing trip that lasts 2-3 hours. Each deluxe tube features a headrest, cup holder, and mesh bottom for ultimate comfort while you soak up the sun. Perfect for bachelor and bachelorette parties, family reunions, or team-building outings, this award-winning experience ensures a hassle-free day on the water. Don’t forget to bring your cooler of drinks to sip as you drift along.

The Japanese art of shinrin yoku—or forest bathing—fits perfectly into the forests outside of Asheville. On this guided nature walk, your certified forest therapy guide will take you across the land, inviting you to slow down and recharge, to notice, to let in the peace of the trail. End with a tea ceremony and snacks, taking stock of your senses and the connection you feel to the natural world.

Your expert guide keeps the adrenaline flowing while sharing insights into forest management, Appalachian traditions, and the natural forces that shaped this wild landscape. It’s the perfect blend of bumps, beauty, and backcountry storytelling—only minutes from downtown Asheville.

Asheville’s outdoors are picture-perfect playgrounds for kids and adults alike, which makes it a great destination for a scavenger hunt. No matter if you need a break in between breweries on an adults-only getaway or if the kids want a fun challenge that doesn’t involve hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains, this fun scavenger hunt lets you experience Asheville’s outdoor bliss while staying close to the best sites in the city.

Get out of town for a half-day hike up to scenic waterfalls with this small-group hiking experience for up to four people. Your certified naturalist guide will lead you and your group on a challenging hike up to beautiful waterfalls, teaching you how to identify local plant life along the way.

Step back in time and explore the roots of the Blue Ridge Mountains! This is Perfect for all ages, this experience is equal parts education, exploration, and awe-inspiring mountain beauty.