Distance from Asheville: About 25 miles; 30 minutes

Length: 3.5 mile loop trail

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Established in 1927 to study rehabilitation of cutover, degraded forests, Bent Creek is the oldest experimental forest in the East. The area is now used to research current issues that threaten or enhance the health and productivity of forests.

An easy to moderate walk along the Little River on High Falls Loop. You can view Triple falls from the overlook or take the stairs (many stairs) for a closer look. Please stay within the barricades to protect yourself and the natural habitats around the falls.

Observation deck offering 360-degree views after a short hike up a gravel road.

Located on the edge of the University of North Carolina – Asheville the Botanical Gardens at Asheville were a real treat to visit. First, the Garden is located about 10 minutes from downtown Asheville which made it an easy site to visit. Second, the trail is well tended, beautiful and relaxing. If you ran it the trail is maybe 15 minutes long. If you stroll then it’s as long as you’d like.