Discover the Natural Beauty of Craggy Gardens
Explore Craggy Gardens: A stunning park in North Carolina showcasing breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and vibrant wildflower displays.
Craggy Gardens, nestled in the heart of North Carolina, is a stunning park that offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this lush landscape is perfect for hiking and picnicking, showcasing a variety of flora and fauna, particularly in spring when wildflowers bloom vibrantly. Whether you're seeking solitude in nature or an exhilarating trek, Craggy Gardens promises a memorable outdoor experience.
A brief summary to Craggy Gardens
- Swannanoa, North Carolina, 28778, US
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the spring for the best wildflower blooms.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning mountain views.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as some trails can be steep.
- Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
Getting There
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Car
From Asheville, NC, take I-240 E to US-70 E. Merge onto I-40 E and continue for approximately 12 miles. Take exit 73 for US-70 E toward Swannanoa. Follow US-70 for about 6 miles, then turn right onto Craggy Gardens Road (NC-246). Continue for approximately 4 miles until you reach the Craggy Gardens visitor area. Parking is available onsite.
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Public Transportation + Car
Take a public bus (such as the Asheville Transit System) from downtown Asheville to the nearest bus stop on US-70 E. From there, you will need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to reach Craggy Gardens, as public transportation does not extend directly to this area. The taxi or rideshare will take you approximately 10 miles to Craggy Gardens Road (NC-246).
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Hiking
If you are already within Pisgah National Forest and are looking for a hiking route, you can access the Craggy Gardens from the Craggy Gardens Trailhead. The trail is accessible via the Blue Ridge Parkway. To get there, take the Blue Ridge Parkway to Milepost 364.1; from the parking area, follow the Craggy Gardens Trail, which is a moderate hike that leads directly to the gardens, offering beautiful views along the way.
Discover more about Craggy Gardens
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Big Ivy Trailhead
7.1 km
Discover the breathtaking trails and natural beauty at Big Ivy Trailhead in Barnardsville, NC – a hiker's paradise in the heart of North Carolina.
Tanbark Ridge Tunnel
7.5 km
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Bull Gap
8.9 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene hiking trails at Bull Gap, Asheville's hidden gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Top of Mt. Mitchell
13.5 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich biodiversity at the Top of Mt. Mitchell, the highest peak in Eastern America, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Mt. Mitchell Overlook
15.5 km
Discover the stunning vistas from Mt. Mitchell Overlook, the highest point east of the Mississippi, a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Catawba Falls
16.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Catawba Falls in North Carolina, a perfect destination for hiking and nature lovers seeking adventure and tranquility.
Sunset Terrace Historic District
16.5 km
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Laurel Knob Overlook
16.6 km
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Curtis Valley Overlook
16.9 km
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Explore Asheville
17.7 km
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Asheville Ghost Tours: Oldest & Original
18.4 km
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Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center
18.4 km
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Moogseum
18.4 km
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The Jackson Building
18.5 km
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Asheville Gem Mine
18.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Craggy Flats Tunnel
0.9 km
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Craggy Gardens Visitor Center
0.9 km
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Craggy Pinnacle Tunnel
1.2 km
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Craggy Pinnacle Summit
1.3 km
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Craggy Dome Overlook
1.6 km
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Craggy Pinnacle Hike
1.6 km
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Douglas Falls
3.1 km
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Graybeard Mountain View
5.9 km
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Glassmine Falls
6.7 km
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Walker Knob Overlook
7.7 km
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Vance Birthplace
9.9 km
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Tanbark Ridge Overlook
10.0 km
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Black Mountain
10.4 km
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Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center
10.6 km
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Craven Gap Trail
10.8 km
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Essential places to dine
Coach House Seafood & Steak
10.5 km
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La Guinguette
10.5 km
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Que Sera
10.7 km
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Bush Farmhouse
10.7 km
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Copper Crown
15.4 km
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Blue Mountain Pizza
15.6 km
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Sunset Terrace
16.3 km
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ELDR Restaurant
16.3 km
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Rye Knot
16.7 km
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Avenue M
16.9 km
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The Original Vinnie's Neighborhood Italian
17.2 km
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Luella’s Bar-B-Que
17.5 km
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Bone and Broth
17.7 km
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Twisted Laurel Downtown Asheville
18.4 km
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Pack's Tavern
18.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Black Mountain Home & Accents
10.5 km
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Blue Ridge Biscuit Company
10.6 km
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Europa
10.6 km
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The Curiosity Shoppe
10.6 km
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Spice It Up
10.7 km
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Maggie B's Wine & Specialty Store
15.6 km
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Honey & the Hive
15.8 km
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Asheville Raven and Crone
17.3 km
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Sachi Gifts
17.9 km
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Enchanted Forrest
17.9 km
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Sanctuary of Stuff
18.1 km
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Appalachian Craft Center
18.4 km
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L.O.F.T. of Asheville
18.5 km
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Spare Chayng
18.5 km
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Swahili Coast
18.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Silverados
10.2 km
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Lookout Brewing Company
10.5 km
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The Station
10.5 km
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COMING SUMMER 2024 - Peri Social House
10.5 km
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Trailhead Restaurant & Bar
10.5 km
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The Railyard Black Mountain
10.7 km
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Black Bear Tavern
11.9 km
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Root Bar
14.2 km
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The Social
15.2 km
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The Great Hall Bar
16.3 km
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Elaine's Dueling Piano Bar
16.3 km
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Pillar Rooftop Bar
18.0 km
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The Village Porch
18.1 km
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Off The Wagon Dueling Piano Bar Asheville
18.4 km
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Little Jumbo
18.5 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Seven Sisters Brew Pub
10.5 km
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Town Pump Tavern
10.6 km
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The Treasure Club Asheville, NC
17.2 km
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Room Nine
18.4 km
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Tiger Mountain
18.5 km
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LaZoom Room
18.7 km
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Club Eleven On Grove
19.1 km
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Scandals Nightclub
19.1 km
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GROVE HOUSE Entertainment Complex
19.1 km
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O. Henry's
19.3 km
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Downtown Asheville
20.3 km
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The Odd
23.3 km
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Shakedown Kava Lounge
41.8 km
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The Brandy Bar + Cocktails
42.0 km
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The Dugout Sports Bar and Taphouse
42.5 km
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