🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 137 (from laksa052)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa137.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://blueridgehikingco.com/blog/best-day-hikes-near-asheville\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://blueridgehikingco.com/blog/best-day-hikes-near-asheville\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog\/best-day-hikes-near-asheville","crawl_time":1776337320,"first_indexed_time":1658976715,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,blueridgehikingco!\/blog\/best-day-hikes-near-asheville s443","src_root_hash":"10000092359676317537","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Best Day Hikes Near Asheville | Blue Ridge Hiking Co.","meta_descriptions":[],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"I get asked a lot from friends visiting Asheville what recommendations I have for hiking trails in the area. To be honest, the suggestions have evolved over time, partly because my knowledge of the area has grown, and partly because Asheville’s gotten a lot (LOT!) more popular in the last 15 years, especially during and after COVID.\nOne thing I always recommend to people who are driving in and out of town is to hit trails along the way.\nThat’s because it breaks up the drive but also because some of those hikes might be just far enough away from Asheville that they’re a bit less popular and crowded. A handful of those are…\nThe\nAppalachian Trail at Sam’s Gap\non I-26 (30 minutes north of town)\nBig Creek\nin Great Smoky Mountains National Park on I-40 at the TN\/NC state life (one hour west of town)\nBig Glassy\nat Carl Sandburg’s home in Flat Rock, North Carolina off I-26 (45 minutes south of town)\nHigh Shoals\nin South Mountain State Park and\nCatawba Falls\nin Old Fort off I-40 (75 minutes or 35 minutes east of town, respectively)\nThey say the early bird catches the worm. And the early hiker gets the trail all to themselves. If you want to find parking on a weekend at Graveyard Fields, Catawba Falls, Rattlesnake Lodge, or Craggy Gardens, pretend you're a bird. But if there’s one thing Asheville’s known for besides it’s natural beauty, it’s our craft beer scene. If you’ve had a little too much fun the night before and need to sleep in- or are just excited about brunch- there are still great local hike options. You just need to shift your focus a bit. Here are some traditionally very popular hikes with their “kissing cousin”alternative…\nBlack Balsam, Tenant Mountain, and Ivestor Gap on the Art Loeb Trail\n(just off the Blue Ridge Parkway about an hour west of town) is one of the most beautiful and iconic stretches of trail on the entire east coast. It’s also one of the most popular and over-loved. If you want a great alternative that gives you epic views with a fraction of the crowds in the same general area, try the neighboring 6,000-foot mountain called\nSam’s Knob\n. It’s a stiff climb but only a mile (one way) from the trailhead.\nI mentioned\nCatawba Falls\nabove. It’s a beautiful waterfall just minutes from I-40. The parking lot was significantly expanded several years ago, which is good news for finding a spot, but bad news because it seems like a lot of the spots get used on the weekends. My favorite alternative to Catawba Falls is\nHigh Shoals at South Mountain State Park\nnear Morganton. It’s a little farther off the interstate and also farther from Asheville but the boardwalk around the falls is the most impressive I’ve ever seen, and the crowds are much, much smaller. Visiting South \nMountain will also give you an excuse to hit the outstanding Fonta Flora Brewery in Morganton when you’re done.\nOne of the most popular trails near Brevard, NC, 45 minutes southwest of Asheville is\nLooking Glass\n. It’s a stout climb to the summit but the views up toward the Blue Ridge Parkway and Black Balsam make it worthwhile. But the trail and the trailhead can get crowded. If you want a very similar hike without the cars and crowds, try\nJohns Rock\ninstead. It’s right next door and when you’re up there by yourself you can wave at the hordes across the way at Looking Glass.\nOne more category of local day hikes I’ll give is the ones you can reach within a matter of minutes. Because something is better than nothing, right? If you’re short on time but long on adventure, access the Mountains to Sea Trail which can be reached in minutes from just about anywhere in town. Some of my favorite places to hop on are…\nLunch Rock\n(15-20 minutes east of downtown, on the Blue Ridge Parkway north of the Folk Art Center)\nRattlesnake Lodge\n(25 minutes northeast of downtown, driving up Town Mountain Road)\nWhere the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses the\nFrench Broad River\n(15 minutes southwest of downtown, head east for a mellow walk or west for a big, abrupt climb)\nOr where the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses\nHendersonville Road\n(10-15 minutes south of downtown)\nFor more info or to book a day hike or backpacking trip with one of our amazing guides, visit our\ntrip calendar\nor call 828 713 5451. Happy hiking and enjoy your time in the Asheville area!","attrs_markdown":"[![Home](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/sites\/default\/files\/Asheville%2C%20NC%20%281%29.jpg)](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/ \"Home\")\n\nAsheville's Premier Hiking Guide Service\n\n- [Book a Trip](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/book_a_trip)\n- [Day Hikes](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/Day_Hikes)\n- [Overnights](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/overnights)\n- [Workshops](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/workshop \"Workshops and Private Coaching\")\n- [Bunkhouse](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/bunkhouse_reservation)\n- [Gear Rentals](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/gear_reservation \"Gear Rentals\")\n- [Groups](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/groups)\n- [Blog](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog)\n- [About](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/about)\n- [Store](https:\/\/shop.blueridgehikingco.com\/)\n\n[Cart](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/cart)\n\n[Email Us](<mailto: trips@blueridgehikingco.com>) • (828) 713-5451\n\nclose\n\n- [Book a Trip](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/book_a_trip)\n- [Day Hikes](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/Day_Hikes)\n- [Overnights](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/overnights)\n- [Workshops](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/workshop \"Workshops and Private Coaching\")\n- [Bunkhouse](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/bunkhouse_reservation)\n- [Gear Rentals](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/gear_reservation \"Gear Rentals\")\n- [Groups](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/groups)\n- [Blog](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog)\n- [About](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/about)\n- [Store](https:\/\/shop.blueridgehikingco.com\/)\n\n# Best Day Hikes Near Asheville\nBy Brew Davis\n\nI get asked a lot from friends visiting Asheville what recommendations I have for hiking trails in the area. To be honest, the suggestions have evolved over time, partly because my knowledge of the area has grown, and partly because Asheville’s gotten a lot (LOT!) more popular in the last 15 years, especially during and after COVID.\n\n**One thing I always recommend to people who are driving in and out of town is to hit trails along the way.** That’s because it breaks up the drive but also because some of those hikes might be just far enough away from Asheville that they’re a bit less popular and crowded. A handful of those are…\n\n- The **Appalachian Trail at Sam’s Gap** on I-26 (30 minutes north of town)\n- **Big Creek** in Great Smoky Mountains National Park on I-40 at the TN\/NC state life (one hour west of town)\n- **Big Glassy** at Carl Sandburg’s home in Flat Rock, North Carolina off I-26 (45 minutes south of town)\n- **High Shoals** in South Mountain State Park and **Catawba Falls** in Old Fort off I-40 (75 minutes or 35 minutes east of town, respectively)\n\nThey say the early bird catches the worm. And the early hiker gets the trail all to themselves. If you want to find parking on a weekend at Graveyard Fields, Catawba Falls, Rattlesnake Lodge, or Craggy Gardens, pretend you're a bird. But if there’s one thing Asheville’s known for besides it’s natural beauty, it’s our craft beer scene. If you’ve had a little too much fun the night before and need to sleep in- or are just excited about brunch- there are still great local hike options. You just need to shift your focus a bit. Here are some traditionally very popular hikes with their “kissing cousin”alternative…\n\n- **Black Balsam, Tenant Mountain, and Ivestor Gap on the Art Loeb Trail** (just off the Blue Ridge Parkway about an hour west of town) is one of the most beautiful and iconic stretches of trail on the entire east coast. It’s also one of the most popular and over-loved. If you want a great alternative that gives you epic views with a fraction of the crowds in the same general area, try the neighboring 6,000-foot mountain called **Sam’s Knob**. It’s a stiff climb but only a mile (one way) from the trailhead.\n- I mentioned **Catawba Falls** above. It’s a beautiful waterfall just minutes from I-40. The parking lot was significantly expanded several years ago, which is good news for finding a spot, but bad news because it seems like a lot of the spots get used on the weekends. My favorite alternative to Catawba Falls is **High Shoals at South Mountain State Park** near Morganton. It’s a little farther off the interstate and also farther from Asheville but the boardwalk around the falls is the most impressive I’ve ever seen, and the crowds are much, much smaller. Visiting South Mountain will also give you an excuse to hit the outstanding Fonta Flora Brewery in Morganton when you’re done.\n- One of the most popular trails near Brevard, NC, 45 minutes southwest of Asheville is **Looking Glass**. It’s a stout climb to the summit but the views up toward the Blue Ridge Parkway and Black Balsam make it worthwhile. But the trail and the trailhead can get crowded. If you want a very similar hike without the cars and crowds, try **Johns Rock** instead. It’s right next door and when you’re up there by yourself you can wave at the hordes across the way at Looking Glass.\n\nOne more category of local day hikes I’ll give is the ones you can reach within a matter of minutes. Because something is better than nothing, right? If you’re short on time but long on adventure, access the Mountains to Sea Trail which can be reached in minutes from just about anywhere in town. Some of my favorite places to hop on are…\n\n- **Lunch Rock** (15-20 minutes east of downtown, on the Blue Ridge Parkway north of the Folk Art Center)\n- **Rattlesnake Lodge** (25 minutes northeast of downtown, driving up Town Mountain Road)\n- Where the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses the **French Broad River** (15 minutes southwest of downtown, head east for a mellow walk or west for a big, abrupt climb)\n- Or where the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses **Hendersonville Road** (10-15 minutes south of downtown)\n\nFor more info or to book a day hike or backpacking trip with one of our amazing guides, visit our [trip calendar](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/book_a_trip) or call 828 713 5451. Happy hiking and enjoy your time in the Asheville area\\!\n***\n- [Log in](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/user\/login?destination=comment\/reply\/4180%23comment-form) to post comments\n\n## Latest Blog Entries\n[Backpacking Trip Difficulty Ratings](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog\/backpacking-trip-difficulty-ratings)\n\n[Top Hikes for Fall Color](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog\/top-hikes-fall-color)\n\n[Local Trail Status After Helene](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog\/local-trail-status-after-helene)\n\n[BRHC Owner Speaks with Washington Post about Helene Recovery](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog\/blue-ridge-hiking-company-owner-speaks-washington-post-about-helene-recovery)\n\n[Hurricane Helene Updates](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog\/hurricane-helene-updates)\n\n[2024 Fall Leaf Color Forecast](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog\/fall-color-forecast-2024)\n\n[Our Favorite Ways to Beat the Summer Heat](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog\/our-favorite-ways-beat-summer-heat)\n\n[Update to our Backpacking Trip Cancellation Policy](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog\/update-our-backpacking-trip-cancellation-policy)\n\n[Meet the Pride Guide](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog\/meet-pride-guide)\n\n[The 3 Ps: How to Go to the Bathroom on Trail](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog\/3-ps-how-go-bathroom-trail)\n\n## Monthly Archives\n[December 2025](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202512)\n\n[September 2025](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202509)\n\n[December 2024](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202412)\n\n[October 2024](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202410)\n\n[August 2024](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202408)\n\n[July 2024](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202407)\n\n[June 2024](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202406)\n\n[May 2024](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202405)\n\n[March 2024](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202403)\n\n[January 2024](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202401)\n\n[November 2023](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202311)\n\n[October 2023](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202310)\n\n[September 2023](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202309)\n\n[August 2023](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202308)\n\n[July 2023](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202307)\n\n[June 2023](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202306)\n\n[May 2023](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202305)\n\n[April 2023](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202304)\n\n[March 2023](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202303)\n\n[February 2023](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202302)\n\n[January 2023](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202301)\n\n[December 2022](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202212)\n\n[November 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2021](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202107)\n\n[April 2021](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202104)\n\n[February 2021](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202102)\n\n[November 2020](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202011)\n\n[June 2020](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202006)\n\n[May 2020](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202005)\n\n[April 2020](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202004)\n\n[March 2020](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=202003)\n\n[December 2019](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201912)\n\n[November 2019](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201911)\n\n[September 2019](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201909)\n\n[June 2019](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201906)\n\n[May 2019](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201905)\n\n[March 2018](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201803)\n\n[February 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2014](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201405)\n\n[April 2014](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201404)\n\n[March 2014](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201403)\n\n[February 2014](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201402)\n\n[January 2014](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201401)\n\n[December 2013](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201312)\n\n[November 2013](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201311)\n\n[October 2013](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201310)\n\n[September 2013](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201309)\n\n[August 2013](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201308)\n\n[July 2013](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201307)\n\n[April 2013](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/blog?date=201304)\n\n- [Jobs](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/jobs)\n\n70 College Street, Asheville, NC 28801 \\| 828-713-5451 \\| trips@blueridgehikingco.com\n\nBlue Ridge Hiking Company operates under commercial special use permits in all public land areas where we guide, including but not limited to Pisgah National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Blue Ridge Parkway, DuPont State Forest, Mt Mitchell State Park, and Montreat Wilderness.\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.exploreasheville.com\/includes\/public\/assets\/images\/explore-asheville-logo.png)](https:\/\/www.exploreasheville.com\/)\n\n[![](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/sites\/default\/files\/wysiwyg\/Go_Local_Asheville_logo_Primary.jpg)](https:\/\/golocalasheville.com\/)[![TripAdvisor](https:\/\/static.tacdn.com\/img2\/travelers_choice\/widgets\/tchotel_2024_L.png)](https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.com\/Attraction_Review-g60742-d6650971-Reviews-Blue_Ridge_Hiking_Company-Asheville_North_Carolina.html) [![](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/sites\/default\/files\/wysiwyg\/FeaturedOnKayak.png)](https:\/\/www.kayak.com\/Asheville.31029.guide)\n\nAll content Copyright © 2008 - 2026 Blue Ridge Hiking Co.\n\n[![](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/sites\/all\/themes\/brhc\/images\/social-you-tube.png)](http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=azut1gMCj14)  [![](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/sites\/all\/themes\/brhc\/images\/social-twitter.png)](https:\/\/twitter.com\/blueridgehiking) [![](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/sites\/all\/themes\/brhc\/images\/social-facebook.png)](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/blueridgehikingco) [![](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/sites\/all\/themes\/brhc\/images\/social-instagram.png)](http:\/\/instagram.com\/blueridgehikingco)","attrs_readable_markdown":"I get asked a lot from friends visiting Asheville what recommendations I have for hiking trails in the area. To be honest, the suggestions have evolved over time, partly because my knowledge of the area has grown, and partly because Asheville’s gotten a lot (LOT!) more popular in the last 15 years, especially during and after COVID.\n\n**One thing I always recommend to people who are driving in and out of town is to hit trails along the way.** That’s because it breaks up the drive but also because some of those hikes might be just far enough away from Asheville that they’re a bit less popular and crowded. A handful of those are…\n\n- The **Appalachian Trail at Sam’s Gap** on I-26 (30 minutes north of town)\n- **Big Creek** in Great Smoky Mountains National Park on I-40 at the TN\/NC state life (one hour west of town)\n- **Big Glassy** at Carl Sandburg’s home in Flat Rock, North Carolina off I-26 (45 minutes south of town)\n- **High Shoals** in South Mountain State Park and **Catawba Falls** in Old Fort off I-40 (75 minutes or 35 minutes east of town, respectively)\n\nThey say the early bird catches the worm. And the early hiker gets the trail all to themselves. If you want to find parking on a weekend at Graveyard Fields, Catawba Falls, Rattlesnake Lodge, or Craggy Gardens, pretend you're a bird. But if there’s one thing Asheville’s known for besides it’s natural beauty, it’s our craft beer scene. If you’ve had a little too much fun the night before and need to sleep in- or are just excited about brunch- there are still great local hike options. You just need to shift your focus a bit. Here are some traditionally very popular hikes with their “kissing cousin”alternative…\n\n- **Black Balsam, Tenant Mountain, and Ivestor Gap on the Art Loeb Trail** (just off the Blue Ridge Parkway about an hour west of town) is one of the most beautiful and iconic stretches of trail on the entire east coast. It’s also one of the most popular and over-loved. If you want a great alternative that gives you epic views with a fraction of the crowds in the same general area, try the neighboring 6,000-foot mountain called **Sam’s Knob**. It’s a stiff climb but only a mile (one way) from the trailhead.\n- I mentioned **Catawba Falls** above. It’s a beautiful waterfall just minutes from I-40. The parking lot was significantly expanded several years ago, which is good news for finding a spot, but bad news because it seems like a lot of the spots get used on the weekends. My favorite alternative to Catawba Falls is **High Shoals at South Mountain State Park** near Morganton. It’s a little farther off the interstate and also farther from Asheville but the boardwalk around the falls is the most impressive I’ve ever seen, and the crowds are much, much smaller. Visiting South Mountain will also give you an excuse to hit the outstanding Fonta Flora Brewery in Morganton when you’re done.\n- One of the most popular trails near Brevard, NC, 45 minutes southwest of Asheville is **Looking Glass**. It’s a stout climb to the summit but the views up toward the Blue Ridge Parkway and Black Balsam make it worthwhile. But the trail and the trailhead can get crowded. If you want a very similar hike without the cars and crowds, try **Johns Rock** instead. It’s right next door and when you’re up there by yourself you can wave at the hordes across the way at Looking Glass.\n\nOne more category of local day hikes I’ll give is the ones you can reach within a matter of minutes. Because something is better than nothing, right? If you’re short on time but long on adventure, access the Mountains to Sea Trail which can be reached in minutes from just about anywhere in town. Some of my favorite places to hop on are…\n\n- **Lunch Rock** (15-20 minutes east of downtown, on the Blue Ridge Parkway north of the Folk Art Center)\n- **Rattlesnake Lodge** (25 minutes northeast of downtown, driving up Town Mountain Road)\n- Where the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses the **French Broad River** (15 minutes southwest of downtown, head east for a mellow walk or west for a big, abrupt climb)\n- Or where the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses **Hendersonville Road** (10-15 minutes south of downtown)\n\nFor more info or to book a day hike or backpacking trip with one of our amazing guides, visit our [trip calendar](https:\/\/blueridgehikingco.com\/book_a_trip) or call 828 713 5451. Happy hiking and enjoy your time in the Asheville area\\!","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	I get asked a lot from friends visiting Asheville what recommendations I have for hiking trails in the area. To be honest, the suggestions have evolved over time, partly because my knowledge of the area has grown, and partly because Asheville’s gotten a lot (LOT!) more popular in the last 15 years, especially during and after COVID. One thing I always recommend to people who are driving in and out of town is to hit trails along the way. That’s because it breaks up the drive but also because some of those hikes might be just far enough away from Asheville that they’re a bit less popular and crowded. A handful of those are… The Appalachian Trail at Sam’s Gap on I-26 (30 minutes north of town) Big Creek in Great Smoky Mountains National Park on I-40 at the TN/NC state life (one hour west of town) Big Glassy at Carl Sandburg’s home in Flat Rock, North Carolina off I-26 (45 minutes south of town) High Shoals in South Mountain State Park and Catawba Falls in Old Fort off I-40 (75 minutes or 35 minutes east of town, respectively) They say the early bird catches the worm. And the early hiker gets the trail all to themselves. If you want to find parking on a weekend at Graveyard Fields, Catawba Falls, Rattlesnake Lodge, or Craggy Gardens, pretend you're a bird. But if there’s one thing Asheville’s known for besides it’s natural beauty, it’s our craft beer scene. If you’ve had a little too much fun the night before and need to sleep in- or are just excited about brunch- there are still great local hike options. You just need to shift your focus a bit. Here are some traditionally very popular hikes with their “kissing cousin”alternative… Black Balsam, Tenant Mountain, and Ivestor Gap on the Art Loeb Trail (just off the Blue Ridge Parkway about an hour west of town) is one of the most beautiful and iconic stretches of trail on the entire east coast. It’s also one of the most popular and over-loved. If you want a great alternative that gives you epic views with a fraction of the crowds in the same general area, try the neighboring 6,000-foot mountain called Sam’s Knob . It’s a stiff climb but only a mile (one way) from the trailhead. I mentioned Catawba Falls above. It’s a beautiful waterfall just minutes from I-40. The parking lot was significantly expanded several years ago, which is good news for finding a spot, but bad news because it seems like a lot of the spots get used on the weekends. My favorite alternative to Catawba Falls is High Shoals at South Mountain State Park near Morganton. It’s a little farther off the interstate and also farther from Asheville but the boardwalk around the falls is the most impressive I’ve ever seen, and the crowds are much, much smaller. Visiting South Mountain will also give you an excuse to hit the outstanding Fonta Flora Brewery in Morganton when you’re done. One of the most popular trails near Brevard, NC, 45 minutes southwest of Asheville is Looking Glass . It’s a stout climb to the summit but the views up toward the Blue Ridge Parkway and Black Balsam make it worthwhile. But the trail and the trailhead can get crowded. If you want a very similar hike without the cars and crowds, try Johns Rock instead. It’s right next door and when you’re up there by yourself you can wave at the hordes across the way at Looking Glass. One more category of local day hikes I’ll give is the ones you can reach within a matter of minutes. Because something is better than nothing, right? If you’re short on time but long on adventure, access the Mountains to Sea Trail which can be reached in minutes from just about anywhere in town. Some of my favorite places to hop on are… Lunch Rock (15-20 minutes east of downtown, on the Blue Ridge Parkway north of the Folk Art Center) Rattlesnake Lodge (25 minutes northeast of downtown, driving up Town Mountain Road) Where the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses the French Broad River (15 minutes southwest of downtown, head east for a mellow walk or west for a big, abrupt climb) Or where the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses Hendersonville Road (10-15 minutes south of downtown) For more info or to book a day hike or backpacking trip with one of our amazing guides, visit our trip calendar or call 828 713 5451. Happy hiking and enjoy your time in the Asheville area!
Markdown	[![Home](https://blueridgehikingco.com/sites/default/files/Asheville%2C%20NC%20%281%29.jpg)](https://blueridgehikingco.com/ "Home") Asheville's Premier Hiking Guide Service - [Book a Trip](https://blueridgehikingco.com/book_a_trip) - [Day Hikes](https://blueridgehikingco.com/Day_Hikes) - [Overnights](https://blueridgehikingco.com/overnights) - [Workshops](https://blueridgehikingco.com/workshop "Workshops and Private Coaching") - [Bunkhouse](https://blueridgehikingco.com/bunkhouse_reservation) - [Gear Rentals](https://blueridgehikingco.com/gear_reservation "Gear Rentals") - [Groups](https://blueridgehikingco.com/groups) - [Blog](https://blueridgehikingco.com/blog) - [About](https://blueridgehikingco.com/about) - [Store](https://shop.blueridgehikingco.com/) [Cart](https://blueridgehikingco.com/cart) [Email Us](<mailto: trips@blueridgehikingco.com>) • (828) 713-5451 close - [Book a Trip](https://blueridgehikingco.com/book_a_trip) - [Day Hikes](https://blueridgehikingco.com/Day_Hikes) - [Overnights](https://blueridgehikingco.com/overnights) - [Workshops](https://blueridgehikingco.com/workshop "Workshops and Private Coaching") - [Bunkhouse](https://blueridgehikingco.com/bunkhouse_reservation) - [Gear Rentals](https://blueridgehikingco.com/gear_reservation "Gear Rentals") - [Groups](https://blueridgehikingco.com/groups) - [Blog](https://blueridgehikingco.com/blog) - [About](https://blueridgehikingco.com/about) - [Store](https://shop.blueridgehikingco.com/) # Best Day Hikes Near Asheville By Brew Davis I get asked a lot from friends visiting Asheville what recommendations I have for hiking trails in the area. To be honest, the suggestions have evolved over time, partly because my knowledge of the area has grown, and partly because Asheville’s gotten a lot (LOT!) more popular in the last 15 years, especially during and after COVID. One thing I always recommend to people who are driving in and out of town is to hit trails along the way. That’s because it breaks up the drive but also because some of those hikes might be just far enough away from Asheville that they’re a bit less popular and crowded. A handful of those are… - The Appalachian Trail at Sam’s Gap on I-26 (30 minutes north of town) - Big Creek in Great Smoky Mountains National Park on I-40 at the TN/NC state life (one hour west of town) - Big Glassy at Carl Sandburg’s home in Flat Rock, North Carolina off I-26 (45 minutes south of town) - High Shoals in South Mountain State Park and Catawba Falls in Old Fort off I-40 (75 minutes or 35 minutes east of town, respectively) They say the early bird catches the worm. And the early hiker gets the trail all to themselves. If you want to find parking on a weekend at Graveyard Fields, Catawba Falls, Rattlesnake Lodge, or Craggy Gardens, pretend you're a bird. But if there’s one thing Asheville’s known for besides it’s natural beauty, it’s our craft beer scene. If you’ve had a little too much fun the night before and need to sleep in- or are just excited about brunch- there are still great local hike options. You just need to shift your focus a bit. Here are some traditionally very popular hikes with their “kissing cousin”alternative… - Black Balsam, Tenant Mountain, and Ivestor Gap on the Art Loeb Trail (just off the Blue Ridge Parkway about an hour west of town) is one of the most beautiful and iconic stretches of trail on the entire east coast. It’s also one of the most popular and over-loved. If you want a great alternative that gives you epic views with a fraction of the crowds in the same general area, try the neighboring 6,000-foot mountain called Sam’s Knob. It’s a stiff climb but only a mile (one way) from the trailhead. - I mentioned Catawba Falls above. It’s a beautiful waterfall just minutes from I-40. The parking lot was significantly expanded several years ago, which is good news for finding a spot, but bad news because it seems like a lot of the spots get used on the weekends. My favorite alternative to Catawba Falls is High Shoals at South Mountain State Park near Morganton. It’s a little farther off the interstate and also farther from Asheville but the boardwalk around the falls is the most impressive I’ve ever seen, and the crowds are much, much smaller. Visiting South Mountain will also give you an excuse to hit the outstanding Fonta Flora Brewery in Morganton when you’re done. - One of the most popular trails near Brevard, NC, 45 minutes southwest of Asheville is Looking Glass. It’s a stout climb to the summit but the views up toward the Blue Ridge Parkway and Black Balsam make it worthwhile. But the trail and the trailhead can get crowded. If you want a very similar hike without the cars and crowds, try Johns Rock instead. It’s right next door and when you’re up there by yourself you can wave at the hordes across the way at Looking Glass. One more category of local day hikes I’ll give is the ones you can reach within a matter of minutes. Because something is better than nothing, right? If you’re short on time but long on adventure, access the Mountains to Sea Trail which can be reached in minutes from just about anywhere in town. Some of my favorite places to hop on are… - Lunch Rock (15-20 minutes east of downtown, on the Blue Ridge Parkway north of the Folk Art Center) - Rattlesnake Lodge (25 minutes northeast of downtown, driving up Town Mountain Road) - Where the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses the French Broad River (15 minutes southwest of downtown, head east for a mellow walk or west for a big, abrupt climb) - Or where the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses Hendersonville Road (10-15 minutes south of downtown) For more info or to book a day hike or backpacking trip with one of our amazing guides, visit our [trip calendar](https://blueridgehikingco.com/book_a_trip) or call 828 713 5451. Happy hiking and enjoy your time in the Asheville area\! *** - [Log in](https://blueridgehikingco.com/user/login?destination=comment/reply/4180%23comment-form) to post comments ## Latest Blog Entries [Backpacking Trip Difficulty Ratings](https://blueridgehikingco.com/blog/backpacking-trip-difficulty-ratings) [Top Hikes for Fall Color](https://blueridgehikingco.com/blog/top-hikes-fall-color) [Local Trail Status After Helene](https://blueridgehikingco.com/blog/local-trail-status-after-helene) [BRHC Owner Speaks with Washington Post about Helene Recovery](https://blueridgehikingco.com/blog/blue-ridge-hiking-company-owner-speaks-washington-post-about-helene-recovery) [Hurricane Helene Updates](https://blueridgehikingco.com/blog/hurricane-helene-updates) [2024 Fall Leaf Color Forecast](https://blueridgehikingco.com/blog/fall-color-forecast-2024) [Our Favorite Ways to Beat the Summer Heat](https://blueridgehikingco.com/blog/our-favorite-ways-beat-summer-heat) [Update to our Backpacking Trip 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Readable Markdown	I get asked a lot from friends visiting Asheville what recommendations I have for hiking trails in the area. To be honest, the suggestions have evolved over time, partly because my knowledge of the area has grown, and partly because Asheville’s gotten a lot (LOT!) more popular in the last 15 years, especially during and after COVID. One thing I always recommend to people who are driving in and out of town is to hit trails along the way. That’s because it breaks up the drive but also because some of those hikes might be just far enough away from Asheville that they’re a bit less popular and crowded. A handful of those are… - The Appalachian Trail at Sam’s Gap on I-26 (30 minutes north of town) - Big Creek in Great Smoky Mountains National Park on I-40 at the TN/NC state life (one hour west of town) - Big Glassy at Carl Sandburg’s home in Flat Rock, North Carolina off I-26 (45 minutes south of town) - High Shoals in South Mountain State Park and Catawba Falls in Old Fort off I-40 (75 minutes or 35 minutes east of town, respectively) They say the early bird catches the worm. And the early hiker gets the trail all to themselves. If you want to find parking on a weekend at Graveyard Fields, Catawba Falls, Rattlesnake Lodge, or Craggy Gardens, pretend you're a bird. But if there’s one thing Asheville’s known for besides it’s natural beauty, it’s our craft beer scene. If you’ve had a little too much fun the night before and need to sleep in- or are just excited about brunch- there are still great local hike options. You just need to shift your focus a bit. Here are some traditionally very popular hikes with their “kissing cousin”alternative… - Black Balsam, Tenant Mountain, and Ivestor Gap on the Art Loeb Trail (just off the Blue Ridge Parkway about an hour west of town) is one of the most beautiful and iconic stretches of trail on the entire east coast. It’s also one of the most popular and over-loved. If you want a great alternative that gives you epic views with a fraction of the crowds in the same general area, try the neighboring 6,000-foot mountain called Sam’s Knob. It’s a stiff climb but only a mile (one way) from the trailhead. - I mentioned Catawba Falls above. It’s a beautiful waterfall just minutes from I-40. The parking lot was significantly expanded several years ago, which is good news for finding a spot, but bad news because it seems like a lot of the spots get used on the weekends. My favorite alternative to Catawba Falls is High Shoals at South Mountain State Park near Morganton. It’s a little farther off the interstate and also farther from Asheville but the boardwalk around the falls is the most impressive I’ve ever seen, and the crowds are much, much smaller. Visiting South Mountain will also give you an excuse to hit the outstanding Fonta Flora Brewery in Morganton when you’re done. - One of the most popular trails near Brevard, NC, 45 minutes southwest of Asheville is Looking Glass. It’s a stout climb to the summit but the views up toward the Blue Ridge Parkway and Black Balsam make it worthwhile. But the trail and the trailhead can get crowded. If you want a very similar hike without the cars and crowds, try Johns Rock instead. It’s right next door and when you’re up there by yourself you can wave at the hordes across the way at Looking Glass. One more category of local day hikes I’ll give is the ones you can reach within a matter of minutes. Because something is better than nothing, right? If you’re short on time but long on adventure, access the Mountains to Sea Trail which can be reached in minutes from just about anywhere in town. Some of my favorite places to hop on are… - Lunch Rock (15-20 minutes east of downtown, on the Blue Ridge Parkway north of the Folk Art Center) - Rattlesnake Lodge (25 minutes northeast of downtown, driving up Town Mountain Road) - Where the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses the French Broad River (15 minutes southwest of downtown, head east for a mellow walk or west for a big, abrupt climb) - Or where the Blue Ridge Parkway crosses Hendersonville Road (10-15 minutes south of downtown) For more info or to book a day hike or backpacking trip with one of our amazing guides, visit our [trip calendar](https://blueridgehikingco.com/book_a_trip) or call 828 713 5451. Happy hiking and enjoy your time in the Asheville area\!
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