Top North Carolina Nature and Wildlife Tours

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.

Traverse the islands around Wrightsville Beach with a group of fellow travelers and a guide on this boat tour. Set sail on a vessel that’s kitted out with a bar, a sound system, and LED lights to keep the party going while you cruise. Make sure you look out for local wildlife like dolphins too.

Come on a sunset tour with us and catch some beautiful views! We also tell some interesting history about the island and then play some beach music.

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.

One of the most biodiverse spots in the nation, the Blue Ridge Parkway shouldn’t just be driven—it deserves to be seen on foot, with a naturalist leading the way. With your guide at the helm, you and your small group will hike to gorgeous waterfalls, up to panoramic mountain views, and through the technicolor meadows, hills, and valleys that make Asheville and the Pisgah National Forest so beloved.

• 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

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.

Witness the stunning sunrises over Zeke’s Island, a 1,635-acre coastal reserve rich in natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. Paddle through a network of islands, fringing marshes, and tidal flats, while enjoying activities like bird watching and shell hunting. This family-friendly tour is perfect for all ages and includes all necessary equipment for a safe and enjoyable experience. With expert guidance and a focus on leisure, immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature as you explore the breathtaking landscapes of North Carolina. - 2-hour guided kayak tour suitable for all ages - Includes kayak, paddle, life vest, and safety demonstration - Ideal for families and novice paddlers - Arrive 10-15 minutes early for a smooth launch

Enjoy a leisurely ride through Blowing Rock’s Moses H. Cone Park on a horse and carriage. Pre-book your ride and meet your coachman at the park, then sit back and relax as you ride in the comfortable carriage. Ride past the historical manor and along carriage trails and take in the views of the Blue Ridge parkway.

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.

Ditch the shore and get out on the water. The Soundside Scenic Cruise is your ultimate summer escape! Cold drinks, warm sunshine, a good coastal breeze, and nothing but good vibes all cruise long. Bring your favorite beverages, cue up your playlist, and let the tiki take care of the rest.

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.

Go hiking in the outskirts of Asheville with a naturalist guide on this small-group tour. You and your small group of fellow hikers will head out into the hills, where you'll learn how to ID local flowers and trees. If you're lucky, you may even spot some wildlife along the way.

Discover the scenic views, mountain trails, wildlife, and plants of the Blue Ridge Mountains with a local guide to lead the way. With so much to see in the region, nature lovers can get overwhelmed deciding where to go and what attractions to prioritize. By traveling with a guide you don’t have to worry about the logistics and can rest assured you don’t miss any of the highlights.

Unlike the larger ferry boats on our private tours using smaller boats we have the ability to do so much more and stay away from the more crowded areas. Captain Chris is local to the area, having grown up here only leaving the area during his time in the US Navy. Since returning home he has been a full time fishing guide in the area for nearly 20 years spending 200+ days each year on the water. Not only do you get to see sought after areas and sights but, you’ll have an opportunity to “see it like a local, with a local!” Great beach areas, wildlife, sea life, fishing, cast netting, clamming, set a crap pot, photograph your adventure and so many more possibilities.

The private charter offers an exclusive cruise for up to 7 passengers aboard a high-end Bennington pontoon boat. This adventure takes you to Masonboro Island, a pristine barrier island known for its unspoiled beaches and marine sanctuary. Enjoy a relaxing day with a cooler of drinks, music, and the option for water restaurant service. Perfect for family outings, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or a unique day with friends, this tour can be customized for 2 to 4 hours of fun on the water. - Private cruise for up to 7 passengers on a cushy pontoon boat - Cruise duration options from 2-4 hours for a flexible experience - Visit Masonboro Island, one of North Carolina's last untouched beaches - Includes captain, first mate, and music for a complete experience -includes float options

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.

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.

What makes this traveling experience unique is that is designed between you and your private concierge/tour guide. You will have access to your guide prior to departure to pick and choose what your family interests are and play a part in how your sightseeing experience will unfold.

This is not a typical meditation class. At HapBE Valley, meditation happens in the presence of horses animals deeply attuned to energy, emotion, and the nervous system. They’re not just part of the setting they’re part of the experience. Horses respond honestly and in real time to what you’re feeling beneath the surface. There’s no performance, no need to “do it right.” As you settle into stillness, many guests notice a shift not because they’re trying harder, but because the environment invites it. Surrounded by open land, mountain air, and the rhythm of the herd, it becomes easier to slow down. Distractions fall away. Your body begins to regulate. Presence happens more naturally. No horse experience is needed, and there is no riding involved. This is about connection within yourself, with nature, and alongside the quiet awareness of the horses. Many describe it as calming, grounding, and unexpectedly insightful something they haven’t experienced anywhere else.

Plan your vacation itinerary before you set foot in Charlotte, prebooking entry to the Sea Life Charlotte-Concord Aquarium. Beat ticket anxiety and secure access to this city aquarium. This family-friendly attraction is home to a whole host of marine life and animals, with plenty of interactive activities to keep children engaged and entertained. See stingrays, jellyfish, seahorses, sea turtles, and more.

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.