The Best Places to Visit During Your Drive from Black Mountain, NC to Asheville, NC
Are you planning a road trip from Black Mountain, North Carolina to Asheville, North Carolina soon? If so, you might want to consider stopping at some of the gorgeous attractions you'll find along the way. From scenic overlooks to historic landmarks to natural wonders, there are tons of incredible sights to see during your drive. Here are the top places to visit during your journey from Black Mountain to Asheville.
Beautiful Overlooks
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the world, and it just happens to be located near the route from Black Mountain to Asheville. Take a detour off of Interstate 40 and take the highway instead to enjoy beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Craggy Gardens
One of the must-see stops along the Parkway is at Craggy Gardens. This beautiful area has a picnic area, hiking trails, and a visitor's center. It's also home to stunning views of the surrounding mountains through the trees.
Devil's Courthouse
If you're looking for something a little more dramatic, consider stopping at the Devil's Courthouse overlook. This spot offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains that is sure to take your breath away.
Rough Ridge
Another picturesque overlook, Rough Ridge is an excellent place to stop and take a hike. The trail along the ridge offers stunning views of colorful foliage in the fall and picturesque snowscapes in the winter.
Unique Landmarks
Both Black Mountain and Asheville are full of historic landmarks and unique attractions. Some of the most intriguing of these can be found along the drive between the two towns.
Folk Art Center
The Folk Art Center is a must-see for anyone interested in Appalachian crafts and art. This center has exhibits featuring textiles, pottery, woodcarvings, and other traditional crafts. The gift shop is a great place to find locally-made souvenirs and unique gifts.
Swannanoa Valley Museum
The Swannanoa Valley Museum is a gem hidden in plain sight. Tucked away in the historic downtown of Black Mountain, this museum tells the story of the valley's fascinating history. From the Cherokee people who first inhabited the area to the development of the railroad, this museum is sure to enlighten and entertain visitors of all ages.
Biltmore Estate
One of the most iconic landmarks in Asheville is the Biltmore Estate. This grand mansion was built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century and is now open to the public for tours. Visitors can explore the gardens, take a wine tasting tour, or simply admire the architecture of the house itself.
Natural Wonders
The area between Black Mountain and Asheville is a nature lover's paradise. From towering waterfalls to quiet hiking trails, the outdoor attractions are endless.
Linville Falls
Linville Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the area, and for good reason. This towering waterfall plunges into a deep gorge and is surrounded by beautiful woodland. Hiking trails in the area are great for families with children or more avid hikers.
Catawba Falls
Catawba Falls is another popular waterfall in the area. The hike to the falls takes you past remnants of an old hydroelectric plant, and the falls themselves are surrounded by lovely greenery. The hike is a little more strenuous than some others in the area, but the view is definitely worth it.
Mount Mitchell State Park
Mount Mitchell is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River and is definitely worth a visit during your drive. The state park is home to hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the area, and visitors can drive up to the top of the peak itself for even more breathtaking views.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are countless places to see and explore during your drive from Black Mountain to Asheville. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for some beautiful views, this area has something for everyone. So why not take a break from the interstate and discover some of the hidden gems along the way?