Top North Carolina Nature Walks

See the wild horses of Corolla on a 2-hour tour on the Outer Banks in North Carolina. Travel by open-air 4-wheel drive vehicle along the sand dunes and ocean to view the wild horses. Along the way, you'll also hear about the history and ecology of the island, stop for photo ops of the horses and other points of interests, and gain private access to the Wild Horse Conservation Area. Choose from several departure times during the day on a tour that includes 4WD tour and guide.

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.

Outta Asheville specializes in curating unforgettable private tours for your family or small group, that transport you beyond the vibrant heart of Asheville, North Carolina, into the hidden treasures of its charming outskirts. Our intimate tours offer a personalized experience, inviting you to explore the quaint allure of nearby small towns. We want you to feel like you came to visit a friend that will take you to see the local sights you will love. We can customize the day to fit your needs with a variety of locations to choose from. These tours are for up to five guests, ages 12+.

Embark on a captivating journey from Asheville to Cherokee with this Blue Ridge Parkway self-guided driving tour. As you set out on this scenic drive, our audio tour guide will be your trusty companion, sharing intriguing stories about the region's past and present. The journey from Asheville to Cherokee is more than just a drive; it's a chance to immerse yourself in nature's wonders. Explore the diverse ecosystems of the mountains, take leisurely strolls through vibrant forests, and take in views from scenic overlooks. Feel like stretching your legs? We've got you covered with suggestions for scenic hikes and outdoor activities that cater to all levels of adventurers. So, book your experience now and let us be your compass on this remarkable voyage through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. Download the app to access your purchased tours.

Discover Western NC's diverse firefly species, including the elusive Blue Ghost, on our intimate night hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains. For $185 per person, this 3-hour experience includes transportation from downtown Asheville, guided interpretation, snacks, and red-light headlamps (required for firefly viewing). The easy to moderate 2-mile hike accommodates most fitness levels and is perfect for ages 14+. With a maximum of 6 participants, your expert guide will lead you through well-maintained trails while sharing insights about local ecology and history. Tours depart at 7pm and return around 10pm, running daily from May 22 - June 1 and June 26 - July 1. Please note that while this area is known for firefly activity, sightings cannot be guaranteed, particularly following Hurricane Helene. Closed-toe shoes are required, and photography is prohibited to protect the habitat. Book through our trip calendar - minimum 2 participants required.

Maximize time in Downtown Asheville with a sightseeing tour led by a local guide. Learn about Asheville's history and culture during a city stroll that includes breweries, distilleries, cafes, and historic sites. See popular landmarks like the Basilica of St. Lawrence, Grove Arcade, and the Leaf Global Arts Center. Taste local beer and spirits during brewery and distillery visits. In lieu of a tour ticket, tip your guide whatever amount you find fair.

Get out into nature and experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains on this private full-day guided hike from Asheville. The experience will be tailored to your interests and preferences. Choose the distance you want to hike, and your guide will take care of the rest. Includes a picnic lunch and trekking poles, if requested.

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.

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.

The only tour in Asheville that includes an easy, beautiful and interesting urban bird lake hike with a luxury private spa experience that is unique and completely relaxing. The spa has only 100% five-star reviews on Google, Viator and TripAdvisor.

Embark on the US East National Park Self-Guided Driving and Walking Audio Tours Bundle! Explore Acadia, Asheville, and the Smoky Mountains. Visit Cades Cove, Shenandoah, and Cuyahoga Valley, then experience the Everglades and Hot Springs. Cruise the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway (currently closed temporarily) and hike to Clingmans Dome. This bundle offers a diverse mix of nature, history, and adventure in some of the East's most iconic national parks. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! After booking, you can check your email before downloading the Tour Guide App by Action, entering your unique password, and accessing your tour. The preceding steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. Simply follow the audio instructions and the route from there. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This is not an entrance ticket to attractions along the route. Check opening hours before your visit.

OFFERED TUESDAYS ! (or for groups by request) Immerse yourself in the captivating history of Carolina Beach on this guided walk that showcases the area's vibrant murals and rich coastal legacy. Stroll through the town and discover how it transformed from a quiet beach to a beloved destination, while appreciating the public art that reflects the diverse voices of the community and the unique surf and shag culture. Perfect for groups, families and all types of travelers. This tour also supports local art initiatives, with part of the proceeds donated to The Carolina Beach Mural Project. - Discover the rich history and vibrant murals of Carolina Beach - Enjoy a guided walk that highlights local culture and heritage - Private groups, available upon request - Seasonal tours on Tuesday mid-mornings, with proceeds supporting local art initiatives

A visit to Buffalo Creek Ranch offers a delightful day of activities for all ages. Engage with friendly animals, including llamas, mini horses, and pygmy goats, while enjoying the excitement of the daily bison feeding led by knowledgeable ranchers. Explore the fascinating Agapeland Model Train Layout, completing a scavenger hunt for a fun prize. Kids can also enjoy playing in the BC Depot Game Room or opt for a mini horse ride (kids must be under 65 lbs & is $10 extra) to enhance their visit. Make sure to reserve your day pass in advance to experience the charm of ranch life.

Discover how our National Forest earned its nickname "the land of waterfalls" as we guide you on a small group hike to explore hidden, off-the-beaten-path, waterfalls within the Blue Ridge Mountains. Our small group hike covers 2-3 miles on easy-to-moderate hiking trails. Perfect for most fitness levels, our experienced guides will adapt the hike to different physical abilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beautiful waterfalls safely. After the hike, return to Asheville via the historic Blue Ridge Parkway. Group is limited to 6 hikers. Meet at 8:30 a.m. in downtown Asheville. You will meet your hiking guide and receive a rundown of the itinerary. 5 hour tour includes drive time and 2.5-3 hours of hiking. Snacks and transportation are included. Your guide will provide trekking poles, a daypack, and/or bottled water at no additional charge upon request. Hikers should arrive prepared for all weather conditions and pack a rain jacket, an extra warm layer, and water.

This guided hike along the Shining Creek Trail from Big East Fork to Shining Rock Gap offers an immersive journey through one of the most lush and secluded areas of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Follow a stunning creek-side trail that winds through ancient hardwood forests, cascading waterfalls, and rugged terrain, all leading to the gleaming white quartz formations at Shining Rock Gap. Along the way, your experienced guide will share insider knowledge of the area's unique geology, diverse flora, and native wildlife, creating a rich and meaningful experience. Ideal for adventure seekers, hikers looking for solitude, and nature lovers, this hike offers a deeper connection to the land, far from the crowds, and filled with memorable sights and stories of this wild Appalachian landscape.

Explore a real working North Carolina cattle ranch on this guided tour. Perfect for anyone curious about rural life and animal husbandry, you’ll learn about the importance of rotational grazing—watch the herd!—water conservation practices, land stewardship, and more, beyond taking in the sights and learning about the cattle themselves. Afterward, relax in the picnic area, enjoying the ranch’s slow pace.

Explore the enchanting wonders of the Smoky Mountains with Good Trip Adventures! Prepare to be mesmerized by the vibrant forests, tumbling waterfalls, and diverse wildlife thriving under the sun’s gentle rays. Our knowledgeable guides will lead you on an immersive journey through the Smokies, sharing insights about the park’s unique ecosystem, cultural heritage, and the rich tapestry of flora and fauna. Highlights may include captivating spots like Kuwhoi, Laurel Falls, and panoramic viewpoints offering breathtaking vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains. Our Smoky Mountains summer tours ensure a seamless and stress-free experience. Relax in our comfortable transportation, allowing you to savor the scenic drive without the worry of navigating unfamiliar roads. We take care of all the details, ensuring you have the right gear and equipment, enabling you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Smokies.

Hike to see the sunset over Asheville without the risk of getting lost in the dark on the way down the trail. Choose between an easy-to-moderate 3-mile (4.8 km) hike or a moderate-to-difficult 2-mile (3.2 km) hike, to suit your needs. Both routes are timed to reach a lookout point before sunset.

Just east of Asheville is the spectacular Catawba Falls, situated at the headwaters of the Catawba River. This hike starts on a wide, well-graded trail along the Catawba River to Lower Catawba Falls. You'll climb the observation tower (580 stairs in total!) to see a spectacular east-facing view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Then continue to Upper Catawba Falls, which was off limits to hikers until 2024. This hike is about 3.5 miles round trip, overall moderate (but not technical). It's a great way to see both sweeping mountain views and waterfalls... it's a beautiful hike year round! Our small group hike (limited to 6 participants) meets at 8:30 a.m. in downtown Asheville. You will meet your hiking guide and receive a rundown of the itinerary. Snacks and transportation are included. Hikers should arrive prepared for all weather conditions and pack a rain jacket, an extra warm layer, and water. Your guide can provide trekking poles, a daypack, and/or bottled water (upon request).

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville with Shaka Guide's immersive audio tour. Let our audio tour guide lead you through the Appalachian Mountains, sharing captivating stories of the region's history, culture, and natural wonders. With real-time GPS technology that plays audio narration as you drive, you'll never miss a scenic spot or trailhead. Explore at your own pace, enjoy picnics with mountain views, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Shaka Guide's Blue Ridge Parkway Asheville Tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Book now and experience the magic of this iconic route! *Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*