Spring Travel Guide to Western North Carolina 2025

WNC -- Wildflowers growing, cool mountain air, and fun events bring people from all over the world to Western North

Carolina (WNC) in the spring.

Travelers can enjoy a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities and events in Western North Carolina in the spring of 2025. Hurricane Helene caused a lot of damage, but the region has been very strong. Many places are now open again, and new events are being planned.

Here's a guide to help you with your trip:

Outdoor Activities
Hiking & Nature Walks

Blue Ridge Parkway: While some sections are undergoing repairs, many trails and overlooks remain accessible. Check the National Park Service website for current conditions.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Trails like Clingmans Dome and Deep Creek Loop are open. Verify trail statuses before visiting on the official park website

Pisgah National Forest: Areas such as Looking Glass Rock and Black Balsam Knob are welcoming hikers. Stay updated on trail availability through the U.S. Forest Service website

Water Adventures

Whitewater Rafting: The Nantahala Outdoor Center is hosting its annual Spring Fling on April 19-20, marking the start of the adventure season.

Cycling & Mountain Biking

Check trail conditions on the official 
Bent Creek Experimental Forest: Near Asheville, it provides accessible trails for biking enthusiasts here  Visit the Pisgah National Forest site for updates here

Ziplining

Navitat Canopy Adventures: Offering zipline tours with views of the spring landscape. Book your adventure through their website

Indoor Activities
Museums & Galleries

Asheville Art Museum: Open and showcasing regional art. Plan your visit via their website
Biltmore Estate: Reopened on November 2, 2024, after addressing flood damage. Experience the grandeur of America's largest home and its gardens. Purchase tickets at Biltmore.com
Shopping & Crafts

Grove Arcade (Asheville): A historic market with local boutiques and artisan shops. Explore more at Grovearcade.com

Folk Art Center: Showcasing Appalachian crafts. Learn about exhibits on the Southern Highland Craft Guild website here 
Dining & Breweries

Asheville's Culinary Scene: While some breweries faced challenges post-Helene, many have reopened. For instance, Hi-Wire Brewing has resumed operations. Check individual websites for current hours and offerings.

Events in Spring 2025
LEAF Global Arts Festival (May 9–11)

Held in Black Mountain, celebrating music and art. Details at theleaf.org
Asheville Beer Week (May 18–25)

A celebration of Asheville’s craft beer scene. Event schedules will be available closer to the date.
Greening Up the Mountains Festival (April 26)

Taking place in Sylva, featuring music, crafts, and local vendors. More information at Mountainlovers.com
Blowing Rock Plein Air Festival (August 19–23)

An open-enrollment painting event in Blowing Rock. Details at blowingrockmuseum.org.

Where to Stay
Hotels & Lodges

The Omni Grove Park Inn: Reopened on November 15, 2024, offering luxury accommodations. Book your stay at omnihotels.com.
The Greystone Inn: Overlooking Lake Toxaway, providing a serene retreat. Reservations at greystoneinn.com.
Cabins & Vacation Rentals

Secluded cabins in areas like Hot Springs and Bryson City are available. Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO offer diverse options.
Camping & RV Parks

Davidson River Campground: Open for tent camping near waterfalls and trails. Reserve spots through recreation.gov.
Lake Powhatan Campground: Family-friendly with lake access. Information at [recreation.gov]

WNCTimes

Image: WNCTimes