Discover the Majesty of Craggy Gardens Visitor Center
Explore the beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway at Craggy Gardens Visitor Center, your gateway to stunning hikes and breathtaking views.
Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway, the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center is an essential stop for tourists eager to explore stunning mountain landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and exhilarating hiking trails. This serene location offers informative exhibits, knowledgeable staff, and unparalleled views that make it a perfect base for your adventure.
A brief summary to Craggy Gardens Visitor Center
- 364 Blue Rdg Pkwy, Black Mountain, North Carolina, 28711, US
- +1828-298-0398
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit in the spring or early summer to witness the vibrant wildflower blooms.
- Arrive early in the day to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds on the trails.
- Don't forget to bring a camera; the views from the hiking trails are breathtaking.
- Check the visitor center's hours before your visit, as they may vary by season.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From downtown Asheville, head to the nearest ART (Asheville Rides Transit) bus stop. You can catch the Route 170 bus heading towards Black Mountain. Stay on the bus for about 30 minutes, and get off at the 'Craggy Gardens' stop. From there, walk about 0.5 miles along Blue Ridge Parkway towards the Visitor Center, which will be on your left.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in downtown Asheville. Head east on E Walnut St and continue onto Tunnel Rd. Follow the signs for US-70 E and Blue Ridge Parkway. The ride will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. As you approach Black Mountain, keep an eye out for the sign for Craggy Gardens Visitor Center on the right.
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Walking
If you enjoy walking, you can start from downtown Asheville. Head east on E Walnut St towards Biltmore Ave, then turn left onto Biltmore Ave. Walk for about 1.5 miles until you reach Tunnel Rd. Here, you can catch a bus or continue walking along US-70 E for about 5 miles towards Black Mountain. Once you see the sign for the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center, it will be on your right. This walk will take around 2-3 hours depending on your pace.
Discover more about Craggy Gardens Visitor Center
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Unmissable attractions to see
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