Explore the Wonders of Western North Carolina Nature Center
Discover the beauty of the Appalachian region at the Western North Carolina Nature Center – a blend of park, zoo, and educational experiences.
The Western North Carolina Nature Center is a captivating destination that showcases the diverse flora and fauna of the Appalachian region. Perfect for family outings, this park and zoo pair offers educational experiences and beautiful landscapes, making it a must-visit for tourists.
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 weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas for a relaxing lunch surrounded by nature.
- Don't miss the daily animal feeding sessions, which offer a unique opportunity to see the animals up close.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the trails and exploring the exhibits.
- Check the event calendar for special programs or workshops that may align with your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from anywhere in the Blue Ridge Mountains, head towards Asheville. Use US-25 N or I-26 E to reach Asheville. Once in Asheville, take the exit for US-70 E towards Black Mountain. Merge onto Gashes Creek Road, and follow it until you reach the Western North Carolina Nature Center at 75 Gashes Creek Rd, Asheville, NC 28805. There is ample parking available on site.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, your best option is to take a bus to Asheville. Check local bus services such as Greyhound or regional transit providers for schedules and routes. Once you arrive at the Asheville bus station, you can take a taxi, rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft), or a local bus to reach the Nature Center. The taxi ride from downtown Asheville to the Nature Center typically costs around $10-$15, depending on traffic.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby or have parked your car, you can walk to the Nature Center. It is located off Gashes Creek Road, which is accessible from various residential areas. Make sure to use sidewalks and crosswalks where available for safety.
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Biking
For those who enjoy biking, there are bike-friendly routes leading to the Nature Center. From downtown Asheville, follow the bike lanes on Charlotte Street, then take a left onto Gashes Creek Road. The Nature Center is about 3 miles from downtown Asheville, and you will find bike racks available for parking your bicycle.
Discover more about Western North Carolina Nature Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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