Asheville – North Carolina

Your adventure begins as you arrive in Asheville, where transport will be arranged to collect you from the airport. It’s well connected to Europe and the US, making your journey smooth and hassle-free. If you’re arriving a day early, we can suggest excellent accommodation options to ensure a relaxed start to your journey. 

For the duration of the trip, you’ll be based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains and national parks. This means you won’t have to carry all your belongings from place to place, and after each day of hiking, you’ll return to the comfort of a warm shower and a cosy bed. Get ready for an unforgettable week exploring one of the US’ most spectacular mountain landscapes.

Click for Route Map :  14 km  5-6 h  ~750 m  ●●●●○ — Moderate

The Shining Rock via Big East Fork hike is one of the most scenic and adventurous routes in North Carolina’s Pisgah National Forest. Starting from the Big East Fork Trailhead near the Blue Ridge Parkway, the path follows the East Fork of the Pigeon River, crossing it several times as it winds through rhododendron tunnels and old-growth hardwood forest. The sound of rushing water and the cool air of the gorge make the lower section especially peaceful.

As the trail climbs higher, it joins the Shining Creek Trail and eventually rises above the forest canopy into open alpine meadows with sweeping views across the Blue Ridge Mountains. The white quartz outcrops of Shining Rock gleam in the sunlight near the summit, giving the area its name. The final approach requires a bit of rock scrambling but rewards you with 360-degree panoramas stretching across the wilderness.

This route is a true Smokies-style adventure — long, quiet, and full of variety, from mossy riverbanks to high mountain ridges. It’s best done in clear weather and makes for a memorable day deep in North Carolina’s wild heart.

Click for Route Map :  14 km  5-6 h  ~400 m  ●●●○○ — Moderate

A stunning hike in the Pisgah High Country, the Sam’s Knob trail offers one of the best panoramic viewpoints along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Starting from the Sam’s Knob trailhead near Milepost 420, the path descends gently through open meadows filled with wildflowers before crossing Flat Laurel Creek. It then climbs steadily through spruce-fir forest and grassy balds to reach the twin summits of Sam’s Knob (1,964 m / 6,280 ft).

From the top, hikers are rewarded with wide-open views of the Shining Rock Wilderness, including Black Balsam Knob, Tennent Mountain, and Mount Pisgah in the distance. On clear days, you can see layer upon layer of ridges fading toward the Smokies.

The trail returns on a different route back, with the late afternoon light often casting a golden glow over the meadows. It’s an accessible yet spectacular day hike that captures the essence of North Carolina’s high mountain landscape.

Click for Route Map :  18 km  7–8 h  ~1,200 m  ●●●●○ — Challenging

The hike to Mount LeConte in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the region’s true classics, offering a mix of lush forest, rugged ridgelines, and sweeping views from one of the park’s highest peaks. The most popular route begins at the Alum Cave Trailhead, following a well-built path that winds through old-growth hardwood forest and past dramatic geological features.

The trail climbs gradually along Alum Cave Creek before reaching Arch Rock, a natural stone tunnel cut by erosion, then continues to the overhanging bluffs of Alum Cave, where cool mist drifts from the cliffs. From there, the route becomes steeper, transitioning from dense forest to spruce-fir as it approaches the summit ridge.

At the top, LeConte Lodge sits near the 2,010-meter summit, surrounded by quiet forest and viewpoints like Cliff Tops and Myrtle Point, each offering wide panoramas across the Smokies. The descent follows the same route, making for a full, satisfying day on the trail. With its varied scenery and rich sense of place, Mount LeConte delivers one of the most rewarding hikes in the southeastern United States.

A free day in Asheville offers the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and a dash of adventure if you’re up for it. Start the morning with coffee and a stroll through the River Arts District, where local artists open their studios and murals brighten every corner. If you’re in the mood for history or architecture, explore the grand halls and gardens of the Biltmore Estate or wander the trails at the North Carolina Arboretum. For something livelier, Asheville’s downtown is packed with farm-to-table restaurants, street musicians, and craft breweries perfect for an easy afternoon. Those craving adrenaline can go whitewater rafting or zip-lining through the forest canopy, or even tackle a guided rock climb in Pisgah National Forest. As the day winds down, catch the sunset from the Blue Ridge Parkway or enjoy live music over a local beer — a fitting finish to a day that captures Asheville’s creative, adventurous spirit.

Click for Route Map : 8 km  5 h  ~150 m  ●●○○○ — Easy-Moderate

A perfect relaxed day in the Pisgah National Forest, this waterfall circuit links several of western North Carolina’s most beautiful and accessible cascades, all within a short drive of each other.

Begin with Looking Glass Falls, an impressive 18-metre roadside waterfall where mist fills the gorge and sunlight catches the spray. Continue to nearby Moore Cove Falls, a gentle forest walk that ends at a curtain of water you can actually step behind. From there, drive a little deeper into the forest to reach the short trail to Log Hollow Falls, a quieter, mossy setting often missed by the crowds.

Pause for a picnic lunch at the Pink Beds Recreation Area, surrounded by peaceful wetlands and boardwalk trails that make a great spot to stretch your legs. Finish the day at Skinny Dip Falls, reached by a brief walk from the Blue Ridge Parkway. The cascades here tumble through smooth rock pools — a popular place to cool off on warm afternoons.

This easy, flexible loop combines short walks, scenic drives, and plenty of time to relax, making it one of the best low-key days in the Pisgah region.

Click for Route Map : 10 km  5 h  ~600 m  ●●●●○ — Challenging

Rising to 2,037 m (6,684 ft), Mount Mitchell is the highest peak in the eastern United States and one of the most rewarding hikes in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The trail begins at Black Mountain Campground and climbs steadily through dense hardwood forest before entering the cool, high-elevation spruce-fir zone near the summit.

The path is rocky and steep in places, with roots and switchbacks that make for a sustained workout. As you gain altitude, the air cools noticeably and openings in the trees reveal far-reaching views over the Black Mountains and the valleys below.

At the summit, a short paved walkway leads to the observation platform, where 360-degree views stretch across western North Carolina. After taking in the panorama, return the same way to the campground. It’s a demanding but deeply satisfying climb, offering a true sense of wilderness and elevation in the heart of the Appalachians.

After an incredible week exploring the wild beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s time to pack your bags and begin your journey onwards. Transport will be arranged to take you to the airport. 

If you’re extending your stay, there are plenty of incredible places to explore beyond the mountains. We’d be happy to share recommendations to help you make the most of your time.

As you leave Asheville behind, you’ll take with you memories of misty peaks, mountain songs, and unforgettable adventures in one of the US’ most breathtaking landscapes. Until next time!