Discover the Wonders of Western North Carolina Nature Center
Experience the beauty and biodiversity of the Appalachian region at the Western North Carolina Nature Center, a captivating zoo and park in Asheville.
Nestled in the heart of Asheville, the Western North Carolina Nature Center offers tourists an immersive experience into the region's natural beauty and diverse wildlife. This engaging zoo and park is perfect for families and nature lovers alike, showcasing local flora and fauna in their natural habitats.
A brief summary to Western North Carolina Nature Center
- 75 Gashes Creek Rd, Asheville, North Carolina, 28805, US
- +1828-259-8080
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-3:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-3:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the cooler hours of the day for a more enjoyable experience, especially in summer.
- Don't miss the educational programs offered throughout the day; they are informative and engaging for all ages.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the scenic spots within the park after your visit.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as some trails can be uneven and require a bit of hiking.
- Check the center's website for special events and seasonal activities that enhance the visitor experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From Downtown Asheville, start at the Asheville City Hall located at 70 Court Plaza. Head east on Court Plaza toward College St. Continue straight onto Broadway St. for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with Gashes Creek Rd. Turn left onto Gashes Creek Rd. The Western North Carolina Nature Center will be on your left at 75 Gashes Creek Rd. The total walking distance is approximately 1 mile and should take around 20-25 minutes.
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Public Transit (Bus)
From Downtown Asheville, walk to the nearest bus stop at 1 Page Ave (the Asheville Transit Center). Take the ART (Asheville Redefines Transit) bus route #12 (which heads toward East Asheville). Make sure to check the current schedule for the bus, as hours may vary. The fare is $1 per ride. Get off at the 'Gashes Creek Rd & 75 Gashes Creek Rd' stop. From there, it’s a short walk to the entrance of the Western North Carolina Nature Center, which is just a few steps away at 75 Gashes Creek Rd.
Discover more about Western North Carolina Nature Center
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