Discover the Natural Wonders of Blue Ridge National Heritage Area
Explore the breathtaking Blue Ridge National Heritage Area, where culture, history, and stunning landscapes intertwine in North Carolina's mountains.
A brief summary to Blue Ridge National Heritage Area
- 195 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville, North Carolina, 28803, US
- +1828-298-5330
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm
The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area is a remarkable stretch of natural beauty located in the heart of North Carolina. This region is particularly famous for its scenic vistas, rolling mountains, and diverse ecosystems, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore a variety of hiking trails that lead to stunning overlooks, waterfalls, and lush forests that are teeming with wildlife. The area is also rich in cultural heritage, showcasing the traditions of the Appalachian people through music, crafts, and storytelling. Visitors can indulge in local arts and crafts at the many galleries and studios dotting the region, or experience live performances that celebrate the area’s musical roots. In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area serves as a convenient rest stop for travelers. With amenities such as Wi-Fi and picnic areas, it’s an ideal place for families and groups to unwind and take in the picturesque surroundings. The region is also home to several visitor centers, where tourists can gather information about local attractions, events, and points of interest. Whether you are looking to hike the famous Blue Ridge Parkway, explore quaint mountain towns, or simply relax in a beautiful setting, this heritage area offers something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to experience the breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky over the mountains, a truly unforgettable sight that captures the magic of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Local tips
- Visit during the fall for spectacular foliage views.
- Check out local festivals for a taste of Appalachian culture.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching; the area is known for its diverse avian species.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the trails.
- Stop by a local visitor center for maps and recommendations.
Getting There
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Car
From downtown Asheville, head south on US-25 S/US-70 E. Continue for about 4 miles. Take the exit toward I-26 E/US-74 A E. Merge onto I-26 E and drive for approximately 5 miles. Take exit 40 for US-25 S toward Hendersonville. After about 1 mile, take a slight right onto US-25 S. Continue on US-25 S for about 6 miles, then turn left onto Hemphill Knob Rd. The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area visitor center will be on your left at 195 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville, NC 28803.
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Public Transportation
Begin your journey at the Asheville Regional Airport. Use the Asheville Transit bus service (Route 5) to reach downtown Asheville. From downtown, you can take a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to reach the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area. Enter the destination address (195 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville, NC 28803) in the rideshare app. The ride will take approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, you can bike from downtown Asheville to the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area. Start on Coxe Ave and head south until you reach the intersection with US-25 S. Continue on US-25 S for about 6 miles. Turn left onto Hemphill Knob Rd. The visitor center will be on your left. Make sure to wear a helmet and be cautious of traffic.
Attractions Nearby to Blue Ridge National Heritage Area
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Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center
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Western North Carolina Nature Center
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Southern Highland Craft Guild, Folk Art Center
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Blue Ridge Craft Trails
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Haw Creek Valley Overlook
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Zealandia's Bridge (Helen's Bridge)
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Blue Ridge Parkway
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Asheville Museum of History
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Asheville Radio Museum
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The Bunkum Stone
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LaZoom Tours
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Pack Square Park
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The Curio Machine
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Biltmore Estate
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Statue: Childhood
Landmarks nearby to Blue Ridge National Heritage Area
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Biltmore Historic Village Hl
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Biltmore Village Cottage District
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Biltmore Village Commercial Buildings
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McGeahy Building
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New Morning Gallery
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Biltmore Hardware Building
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Asheville Tourists
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Explore Asheville
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YMI Cultural Center
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Blue Spiral 1
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The Jackson Building
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The Blackwell Memorial
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Breakout Games - Asheville
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Moogseum
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Woolworth Walk