We’re kicking off our summer road trip series — Hit the Road — with an outdoor adventure-themed trip to Asheville. Surrounded by nature, this area is a great destination for experienced adventurers + novice nature seekers alike.
Before you start packing your bags, here’s everything you need to know about the area + our insider recommendations.
Drive time: ~4 hours
Est. population: 93,600
Avg. high in June: 82°
Avg. high in October: 68°
Things to do 🥾
Take a hike
Explore the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachian Trail on foot with one of Asheville’s many hiking trails. Our picks: Craggy Gardens, Looking Glass Rock, John Rock, Sam Knob, and Max Patch.
Chasing waterfalls
Hike or drive to one of AVL’s many natural water features like Skinny Dip Falls + Rainbow Falls. If you’re looking for a guided adventure, try a waterfall hike led by Asheville Adventures.
Rock climbing
Give bouldering a try at Rumbling Bald. If you’d rather climb indoors or the weather looks bleak, try to send it at The Riveter or Cultivate Climbing.
Fuel up after hiking 🍽️
Ultra Coffeebar
Head to the River Arts District for a cup of Counter Culture Coffee and breakfast. Try This: The “RAD” on an everything bagel.
Biscuit Head
It’s worth the wait in line (arrive early). Try This: The Filthy Animal — a buttermilk biscuit topped with fried chicken, pimento cheese, bacon, and scrambled eggs smothered in gravy.
Salsas
Our friends at AVLtoday told us that this spot makes the best burritos in Asheville.
Ukiah
Perfect for a celebration or date night, this restaurant serves elevated plates inspired by Japanese soul food and Southern barbecue. Don’t sleep on Japanese sweet potato (it’s topped with miso butter, brown sugar, parmesan + umami salt).
Rankin Vault
Try an award-winning burger and drink from this downtown favorite.
Noble Cider
Thirsty? Try a pint from Asheville’s first cidery. Hang out at the downtown taproom or take some cans to enjoy by a bonfire at your cabin (see below).
Antidote
Top off the perfect day with a craft cocktail. A “Bee’s Sneeze” on the rooftop lounge sounds great to us. Pro tip: To enter, you must be a member. Don’t worry — it’s just $1.
Chemist Spirits
Stop by this distillery (next door to Antidote) to buy its citrus-forward gin, which just so happens to be the official gin of the 2022 daytime Emmy Awards.
Cozy campsites + cabins ⛺
Treehouses of Serenity, North Asheville
These unique stays are perched on the side of a mountain. There are seven different rentals to choose from + each sleep up to four people. Prices vary depending on selection and date.
Tiny Home, Weaverville
This house is the perfect size for one or two people + costs $99 per night. Located just 10 minutes from downtown Asheville, this charming one-room cottage has a lofted bed and small bathroom.
Retro Resort, North Asheville
Stay in a vintage camper nestled in a private valley; they can sleep 2-6 people. Camper rentals start at $130.
Log Cabin, Lake Lure
This private cabin with access to Lake Lure can sleep 10 people with three bedrooms and three bathrooms. For $242 a night, guests can enjoy amenities like a stone fireplace and a large deck with rocking chairs.
Looking for more recommendations? Check out AVLtoday. Plus, check out our July installment of our Hit the Road series, where we highlight a 30-mile road trip to Pittsboro, NC.
