Explore the Breathtaking Mountains-to-Sea Trail in North Carolina
Discover the diverse beauty of North Carolina on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, where adventure meets breathtaking landscapes from mountains to coast.
The Mountains-to-Sea Trail in North Carolina offers an exhilarating journey through diverse landscapes, stunning vistas, and rich biodiversity. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, this trail showcases the state's natural beauty from the mountains to the coastline, inviting tourists to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
A brief summary to Mountains-to-Sea Trail
- North Carolina, US
Local tips
- Start your hike early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as some sections of the trail may be remote.
- Wear appropriate footwear for varying terrain, including rocky paths and muddy areas.
- Check the weather forecast before your hike and dress in layers for changing conditions.
- Consider visiting local towns along the trail for food and lodging options.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're in downtown Asheville, start at Pack Square Park. Head east on College Street until you reach the intersection with Patton Avenue. Turn left onto Patton Avenue and walk for about 0.5 miles. You'll see the entrance to the Mountains-to-Sea Trail on your right. Follow the trail signs to begin your hike.
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Public Transport
From the Asheville Transit Center, take the ART bus route 1 towards the Asheville Mall. Get off at the stop labeled 'S. Tunnel Rd at Eastgate Shopping Center.' From there, walk north along Tunnel Road for about 0.7 miles, then turn left onto the access road that leads to the Mountains-to-Sea Trail entrance.
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Bicycle
If you have rented a bike, start at the Asheville River Arts District. Head east on Riverside Drive until you reach the intersection with Amboy Road. Turn left on Amboy Road and continue straight for about 1 mile. You will find the entrance to the Mountains-to-Sea Trail on your right side, just past the bridge.
Discover more about Mountains-to-Sea Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hominy Valley Overlook
0.8 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene nature at Hominy Valley Overlook, a stunning spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
The Biltmore Legacy
16.4 km
Explore the Biltmore Legacy in Asheville, NC, and uncover the rich history that has shaped this vibrant Southern city.
Thomas Jarrett House
17.9 km
Discover the architectural charm and historical significance of the Thomas Jarrett House, a true gem in Asheville's rich heritage.
East Fork Overlook
18.7 km
Discover the stunning panoramic views of East Fork Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
Fernihurst Mansion
19.1 km
Explore the historic Fernihurst Mansion in Asheville, NC, an architectural masterpiece surrounded by lush gardens and rich cultural heritage.
New Morning Gallery
19.8 km
Explore New Morning Gallery in Biltmore Village for a diverse selection of local art, handcrafted treasures, and a vibrant cultural experience in Asheville.
Riverside Industrial Historic District
19.8 km
Explore Asheville's Riverside Industrial Historic District, where history meets natural beauty along the French Broad River in North Carolina.
McGeahy Building
19.8 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of the McGeahy Building, a historic landmark in Biltmore Village, Asheville, North Carolina.
Biltmore Hardware Building
19.8 km
Explore the Biltmore Hardware Building in Asheville, a stunning historical landmark that embodies the region's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Biltmore Village Cottage District
19.9 km
Explore the historic charm of Biltmore Village Cottage District, where stunning architecture meets vibrant local culture in Asheville, NC.
Biltmore Village Commercial Buildings
19.9 km
Explore Biltmore Village: A Historic Landmark in Asheville, NC, Where Architectural Beauty Meets Local Charm.
Biltmore Historic Village Hl
20.0 km
Experience the charm of Biltmore Historic Village, where history meets artisanal shopping and stunning architecture in Asheville, North Carolina.
Cove Creek Falls
20.0 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Cove Creek Falls in Brevard, NC, where cascading waterfalls and lush landscapes create a tranquil retreat in nature.
French Broad River Greenway Railroad Bridge
20.0 km
Explore Asheville's historical gem, the French Broad River Greenway Railroad Bridge, where nature and heritage beautifully intertwine.
Graveyard Fields Upper Falls
20.5 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Graveyard Fields Upper Falls, a hidden gem of North Carolina's wilderness, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Big Ridge Overlook
0.0 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Big Ridge Overlook, a scenic spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway offering breathtaking mountain views.
Mills River Valley Overlook
1.3 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty at Mills River Valley Overlook, a scenic gem along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
Stony Bald Overlook
1.4 km
Discover the stunning vistas and serene beauty of Stony Bald Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway, a must-visit scenic spot for nature enthusiasts.
Mount Pisgah Trail
5.0 km
Explore Mount Pisgah Trail: A stunning hiking destination in North Carolina offering breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
The Blue Ridge Parkway
8.2 km
Explore the stunning vistas and adventure of the Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic drive through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains.
Fryingpan Mountain Lookout Tower
8.7 km
Discover breathtaking views and serene nature at Fryingpan Mountain Lookout Tower in North Carolina's Pisgah National Forest, a must-visit for every traveler.
The Cradle of Forestry Overlook
10.1 km
Explore The Cradle of Forestry Overlook for stunning views and rich natural history along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
The North Carolina Arboretum
10.7 km
Explore the picturesque gardens and serene hiking trails at The North Carolina Arboretum, a nature lover's paradise in Asheville's Blue Ridge Mountains.
Pink Beds Trail Loop
12.5 km
Explore the serene Pink Beds Trail Loop in Pisgah National Forest, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Cradle of Forestry in America
12.8 km
Discover the rich heritage of forestry at the Cradle of Forestry in America, where history and nature intertwine in the heart of Pisgah National Forest.
Pounding Mill Overlook
12.9 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Pounding Mill Overlook, a scenic spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway offering breathtaking views and tranquility for every traveler.
Burning Blush Brewery
14.7 km
Discover the art of craft brewing at Burning Blush Brewery in Mills River, NC, where locally sourced ingredients meet breathtaking mountain views.
Lake Julian Park
15.7 km
Explore Lake Julian Park in Arden, NC - a tranquil retreat featuring scenic lake views, recreational activities, and beautiful picnic areas.
Cherry Cove Overlook
15.9 km
Discover the stunning vistas at Cherry Cove Overlook, a must-see scenic spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
Land Rover Experience Biltmore
16.3 km
Discover thrilling off-roading adventures at Land Rover Experience Biltmore in Asheville, where adventure meets breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable memories.
Essential places to dine
Pisgah Inn
6.7 km
Discover Pisgah Inn: A Scenic Retreat with Stunning Views and Delicious Dining in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains.
Papa Johns Pizza
13.7 km
Enjoy delicious pizza made with fresh ingredients at Papa John's Pizza in Mills River, perfect for families and friends seeking tasty meals.
131 MAIN Restaurant
14.2 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at 131 MAIN Restaurant in Asheville - where fresh flavors meet fine dining.
Moose Cafe
15.2 km
Experience the heart of Southern hospitality with delicious breakfast delights at Moose Cafe in Asheville.
Culver’s
16.1 km
Experience the best of American comfort food at Culver’s in Arden – where buttery burgers meet rich frozen custard!
Cedric's Tavern
16.4 km
Experience classic American flavors at Cedric's Tavern in Asheville – where history meets delicious cuisine amidst stunning surroundings.
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
17.6 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar in Asheville – where tradition meets modern dining.
Jargon
17.7 km
Experience exquisite New American cuisine and handcrafted cocktails at Jargon in Asheville - where flavor meets creativity.
The Admiral
18.4 km
Discover innovative American cuisine at The Admiral in Asheville – where every dish tells a story through bold flavors and local ingredients.
Gypsy Queen Market, Deli & Food Truck
18.9 km
Discover the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine at Gypsy Queen Market in Asheville - where every dish tells a story.
RosaBees
19.1 km
Experience authentic Hawaiian flavors in Asheville's River Arts District at RosaBees - where every bite transports you to paradise.
12 Bones Smokehouse RIVER
19.2 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at 12 Bones Smokehouse RIVER in Asheville's River Arts District - where flavor meets creativity.
Vivian
19.6 km
Experience innovative American cuisine at Vivian in Asheville - where local flavors meet culinary artistry for an unforgettable meal.
Hawg Wild Smokehouse & Taproom
19.7 km
Discover authentic Southern barbecue at Hawg Wild Smokehouse & Taproom in Pisgah Forest—where every bite tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
19.7 km
Experience culinary excellence at Ruth's Chris Steak House in Asheville – where sizzling steaks meet refined elegance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Smoky Mountain Creations
15.2 km
Explore the charm of Smoky Mountain Creations, Asheville's best souvenir store for unique handmade crafts and local artistry.
Biltmore Carriage House Shop
17.4 km
Explore the Biltmore Carriage House Shop for unique gifts, local artisans, and Biltmore-themed souvenirs in the heart of Asheville's stunning estate.
Instant Karma Asheville
17.7 km
Explore a vibrant gift shop in Asheville featuring unique clothing, candles, and metaphysical supplies to bring home a piece of local culture.
Whist
18.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Whist, Asheville's charming gift shop that celebrates creativity and craftsmanship.
Pisgah Visitor Center Gift Shop
18.5 km
Explore unique gifts and local crafts at Pisgah Visitor Center Gift Shop in the stunning Pisgah National Forest, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Splurge
19.0 km
Explore Splurge in Asheville's River Arts District for unique antiques, local art, and timeless treasures that celebrate the city's rich heritage.
Wildflowers Vintage
19.1 km
Explore Wildflowers Vintage in Asheville's River Arts District for unique, sustainable fashion treasures that celebrate individuality and creativity.
House of Kismet
19.1 km
Explore unique vintage clothing for all ages at House of Kismet in Asheville's artistic River Arts District, where style meets nostalgia.
The Hub and Pisgah Tavern
19.6 km
Explore Pisgah Forest with bike rentals, repairs, and enjoy local brews at The Hub and Pisgah Tavern, your outdoor adventure hub.
Gate House Gift Shop
19.6 km
Explore exclusive Biltmore gifts and local crafts at the Gate House Gift Shop, a charming destination for souvenirs and unique finds.
Peace & Nice Boutique
19.7 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Peace & Nice Boutique in Asheville's Biltmore Village, where style meets charm in a delightful shopping experience.
The Forest Store
19.7 km
Explore outdoor gear and local crafts at The Forest Store in Pisgah Forest, the gateway to North Carolina's stunning nature.
Gather Gift Shop
19.8 km
Discover unique gifts, Christian literature, and local treasures at Gather Gift Shop in Pisgah Forest, NC.
The Little Corner Shop
19.8 km
Discover unique gifts and treasures at The Little Corner Shop, Hendersonville's charming destination for antiques, collectibles, and home goods.
Provisions Mercantile — Biltmore Village
19.9 km
Explore Provisions Mercantile in Biltmore Village for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the essence of Asheville.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Stone Ridge Tavern
12.5 km
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Stone Ridge Tavern in Asheville, where local flavors meet friendly service in a charming atmosphere.
Blue Ridge Tavern
15.6 km
Discover Blue Ridge Tavern: A Cozy Bar & Grill in Fletcher, NC, Offering Delicious Eats and a Welcoming Atmosphere for Every Visitor.
The Odd
17.4 km
Discover The Odd in Asheville: A unique bar and live music venue offering a vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and unforgettable performances.
Westville Pub / All Sevens Brewing
17.6 km
Delve into the heart of Asheville at Westville Pub, where great food, local brews, and a lively atmosphere await you.
Cascade Lounge
17.8 km
Experience the charm of Cascade Lounge, Asheville's beloved bar, where friendly service meets a cozy atmosphere and delightful drink selection.
Desoto Lounge
18.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Desoto Lounge, Asheville's favorite bar and grill, offering delicious food, drinks, and live music.
The Double Crown
18.4 km
Experience Asheville's vibrant nightlife at The Double Crown, a dive bar known for its affordable drinks and welcoming atmosphere.
Riverside Bar
19.8 km
Discover Riverside Bar: A delightful blend of American, British, and Indian cuisines in the heart of Pisgah Forest, NC.
Breezeway Bar
19.8 km
Experience the charm of Asheville at the Breezeway Bar, where relaxation meets a delightful beverage selection in a cozy atmosphere.
Crucible
19.9 km
Discover Crucible, Asheville's vibrant bar known for exceptional cocktails, local brews, and a lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding after exploring the city.
All Souls Grotto - Craft Beer, CBD, Delta 8, THCa, & Mushrooms
19.9 km
Discover the unique blend of craft beer and wellness at All Souls Grotto in Asheville, where relaxation and flavor come together.
Hi-Wire Brewing - Biltmore Village
19.9 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer scene at Hi-Wire Brewing - Biltmore Village, where local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere come together.
Azalea Bar & Kitchen
20.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Asheville at Azalea Bar & Kitchen, where small plates and a lively bar create the perfect dining atmosphere.
Village Pub
20.2 km
Discover the flavors of American cuisine at Village Pub in Asheville, NC, where local ingredients meet a cozy dining atmosphere.
Sovereign Kava Bar
20.7 km
Experience the unique flavors of kava in a vibrant Asheville bar with live music, table tennis, and a welcoming lounge atmosphere.