What do you get when you combine a temperate climate with ancient mountains and rugged landscapes? A plethora of outdoor activities to enjoy any day of the year. For those who prize adventure and adrenaline-pumping fun, the mountains of Asheville are calling! Below are 10 prized outdoor activities in and around Asheville to try—quick ways to feel like a local in no time.
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Ziplining — For a thrilling and unforgettable adventure, zip above the treetops and see the mountains from a new perspective. Book with the Adventure Center of Asheville, Navitat Canopy Adventures, or French Broad Adventures.
River Adventures — Whether you love leisurely tubing, Class II–IV whitewater, rappelling on waterfalls, or stand-up paddleboarding, consider Blue Heron Whitewater, Wai Mauna SUP Tours, or Green River Adventures.
Mountain Biking — For singletrack surrounded by nature, ride Bent Creek Experimental Forest, the Old Fort Gateway trail system (including Kitsuma), and more. Beginners or guided riders can look to Pisgah Mountain Bike Adventures and Asheville Trails & Taps.
Boating, Swimming & Fishing — Swim or boat at Lake James, Lake Lure, Fontana, Santeetlah, Junaluska, or Glenville. For fishing, try Hominy Creek River Park, French Broad River Park, Lake Julian Park, Davidson River, Pigeon River, and Big Laurel Creek. For guided trips, look to Asheville Drifters, Asheville Fly Fishing, Hunter Banks Company, Curtis Wright Outfitters, or Southern Appalachian Anglers.
Foraging — Learn about Appalachia’s edible landscape—one of the richest ecosystems on Earth—on a foraging tour with No Taste Like Home.
Yoga & Forest Bathing — Embrace Asheville’s holistic vibe with guided forest bathing (nature therapy) or a yoga hike via Asheville Wellness Tours.
Birding & Wildlife Viewing — Visit the Western North Carolina Nature Center, Chimney Rock State Park, and Beaver Lake Bird Sanctuary. Explore on your own or join a guided program to learn about local species and habitats.
Golfing — Tee it up at public courses such as Asheville Municipal Golf Course, Omni Grove Park Inn, Reems Creek Golf Club, Chestnut Mountain, Broadmoor Golf Links, Black Mountain Golf Club, Springdale Resort, Orchard Trace, and Cummings Cove.
Year-Round Adventure Awaits 
While not exhaustive, this list captures many of Western North Carolina’s most beloved outdoor experiences. From skiing and stargazing in winter, apple picking and horseback riding in fall, to garden strolls and cheese-trail tastings in spring, and natural waterslides and concerts in summer— every season unlocks new adventures in our beautiful corner of the Blue Ridge.