The 7 Best Day Trips From Asheville

While Asheville is one bohemian mountain town with plenty to do, sometimes a peaceful retreat is in order. Make these best day trips from Asheville for a quiet city break.

Apple orchards, secluded waterfalls and more await.

1. Brevard

This Transylvania county city is charming and quaint, and it’s even on the edge of Pisgah National Forest. So, it’s an easy homebase for mountain adventures. This artistic community is active and home to world-class music–including Steve Martin’s band Steep Canyon Rangers. Plan a to visit during a festival, and be sure to stop by Blue Ridge Bakery for a mouth-watering sweet treat and cup of coffee.

2. Hendersonville

Hendersonville is home to an amazing apple and cider festival when the season rolls around, but there are plenty of other reasons to visit this little town. The city is a haven for cyclists, but visit Jump Off Rock for a wonderful view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Make sure to visit the Japanese Maple farm here too.

3. Morganton

Morganton is a small town with tons of charm. There are nearby hikes to lush forests and plunging waterfalls in High Shoals Falls, and it’s even possible to plan a day of hang gliding here. Sip Carolina wine at Silver Fork Winery or visit the new Fonta Flora Brewery farmhouse near Lake James.

4. Cashiers

This tiny but charming mountain-top town is a quiet escape away from the crowds most weekends. Visit Gorges State Park or spend time shopping around the boutiques. They have an active concert series during the summer on the city center green, but nearby Highlands is a resort town worth wandering for a few hours too.

5. Little Switzerland

Located under the shadow of Mount Mitchell, the highest peak of the Appalachian mountains, Little Switzerland is a cute village just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. There are tons of places to pick up a hike for excellent views, or explore the historic mines in the area. Be sure to catch a live mountain music concert, and be prepared to dance.

6. Lake Jocassee

Lake Jocassee is a nice ride to the lower foothills of South Carolina and can be accessed through Devil’s Courthouse State Park. Visit the lake for a day of kayaking or camp on a lake island for a more adventurous city break.

7. Greenville

Greenville is just as cool as Asheville and is an easy secondary trip just down the interstate to South Carolina. The community is incredibly active with tons of events and festivals such as Fall for Greenville which features more than 60 acts and bands from across the United States.

If you didn’t get your fill of beer in Asheville, take a brewery tour, though the culinary scene here is worth focusing on too. Don’t worry, you can work it off with a bike ride along the Swamp Rabbit Trail.