Five-Star Trails: Asheville. Jennifer Pharr Davis

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to other hikers, bikers, equestrians, and others you encounter on the trails.

       Never spook animals. An unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise startles most animals. A surprised animal can be dangerous to you, to others, and to itself. Give them plenty of space.

       Observe the YIELD signs that are displayed around the region’s trailheads and backcountry. They advise hikers to yield to horses, and bikers to yield to both horses and hikers. A common courtesy on hills is that hikers and bikers yield to any uphill traffic. When encountering mounted riders or horse packers, hikers can courteously step off the trail, on the downhill side if possible. Speak to the riders before they reach you and do not dart behind trees. You are less spooky if the horse can see and hear you. Resist the urge to pet horses unless you are invited to do so.

       Stay on the existing trail and do not blaze any new trails.

       Be sure to pack out what you pack in, whether you are on a day hike with just a tissue and a small lunch sack or on a longer trek with a backpack full of supplies. No one likes to see the trash someone else has left behind. Just think what a difference it would make if everyone picked up just one piece of trash each time they hit the trail.

       To emphasize: ALWAYS practice Leave No Trace Principles. Visit lnt.org for more information. Try to preserve the trail in the same shape, if not better, than how you found it.

      Tips for Enjoying Hiking in the Asheville Area

      The best way to enjoy your hike is to come to the trailhead prepared. And take your time to enjoy the spectacular trails of the Asheville area and its surroundings.

      If you are hiking in a group, do not try to keep up with the fastest hiker. Instead, allow each person to go at his or her own speed. Or, if you wish to stay together, make sure that the pace is comfortable for everyone.

      Another way to enjoy the hike is to make sure that you are properly fueled before starting the trip. If you are hungry or thirsty at the outset of your trek, then it is unlikely you will have much energy or much fun on the trail.

      Also, remember that the temperature in Asheville is often much warmer than on top of the surrounding mountaintops. On your hike, be prepared for a 10–20 degree drop in temperature and stronger winds than are present on the valley floor.

      If you are a fan of spotting wildlife, consider planning your trek for the hours that coincide with dawn and dusk. This is the best time to spot bears, turkey, and deer. Pay particular attention to the trail during the heat of the day, as this is the time when snakes typically enjoy stretching across the trail and sunbathing.

       Central

      A VIEW OF LAKE POWHATAN AND THE FISHING PIER (Hike 4, Lake Powhatan)

       1 ARBORETUM EXPLORER LOOP

       2 DESTINATION CENTER TRACK TRAIL

       3 HAW CREEK OVERLOOK

       4 LAKE POWHATAN

       5 ROCKY COVE

      1 Arboretum Explorer Loop

       HEAVY VEGETATION FLANKS THE TRAIL HERE.

      SCENERY:

      TRAIL CONDITION:

      CHILDREN:

      DIFFICULTY:

      SOLITUDE:

      GPS TRAILHEAD COORDINATES: N35° 30.052' W 82° 35.940'

      DISTANCE & CONFIGURATION: 4.4-mile loop

      HIKING TIME: 3 hours

      HIGHLIGHTS: The North Carolina Arboretum’s well-maintained trails and Visitor Education Center

      ELEVATION: 2,014' at trailhead, 2,291' at highest point on Owl Ridge Trail

      ACCESS: The North Carolina Arboretum is open April–October, 8 a.m.–9 p.m.; November–March, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.; parking fee required.

      MAPS: North Carolina Arboretum trail map, USGS Bent Creek, Skyland

      FACILITIES: Restrooms at the Visitor Education Center and Baker Exhibit Center

      WHEELCHAIR ACCESS: Yes, at several buildings, including the Visitor Education Center and Baker Exhibit Center

      COMMENTS: Visit the arboretum’s website to coordinate your trip with a workshop or seminar.

      CONTACTS: North Carolina Arboretum: 828-665-2492, ncarboretum.org

       Overview

      Located in southwest Asheville near the banks of the French Broad River, the North Carolina Arboretum offers miles of beautifully maintained and gently graded trails that are well suited for hikers young and old. This walking route traces the perimeter of the arboretum on scenic trails and dirt roads. The highlight of the expedition comes near the end of the trek, when the path arrives at the stunning gardens and sculptures that surround the Visitor Education Center and Baker Exhibit Center.

       Route Details

      Even

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