Accessible Hiking Trails in Asheville 

Accessible Hiking Trails in Asheville 

Now is the time to get out and enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery and sweeping vistas that our beautiful state of North Carolina offers. What could be better than a refreshing adventure in nature! But what if you have mobility challenges? Don’t worry: there are plenty of exceptional accessible hiking trails in and around Asheville to enjoy. So, grab your water bottle, your camera, and prepare for a terrific time outdoors. Please remember to double-check whether these areas are open to the public and whether there are changes to their operations before arranging to head out to the trail.

 

Your Next Asheville Adventure Awaits 

If you’re itching to get outside, try:

Cradle of Forestry

This is one of our favorites: nestled in the Pisgah National Forest, Cradle of Forestry offers three paved trails (3 miles total) that wind through forests, historic buildings, and exhibits. It’s also near Looking Glass Falls, which is viewable roadside. This one is great for the whole family or your group of friends.

South Mountains State Park: Hemlock Nature Trail 

Escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy nature at its best. The South Mountains State Park features many trails for all abilities, including the Hemlock Nature Trail. This is a ¾ mile loop that is wheelchair accessible. It meanders along the Jacob Fork River and through gorgeous forest land. You can see displays, learn about the riparian environment and its plants and animals, and have a picnic at the accessible Jacob’s Fork picnic area.

Lake Junaluska

Take a lakeside stroll and behold the majesty of the Great Smoky Mountains. There are a number of long bridges and viewpoints to enjoy along the way, and you don’t want to miss the “Rose Walk.” During the summer, this path blooms with hundreds of fragrant flowers. The terrain is paved and mostly flat, though there is one short uphill section. All told, this is a great 2.3 mile or 3.8 mile stretch of beauty.

Mt. Mitchell

You can enjoy the views from the parking lot of the highest summit in the eastern United States, or you can do the ½ mile paved hike to the observation deck at the top. While an ADA accessible trail, it does present a gradual uphill climb, so you may need a friend or family member to help. The views are worth it, and you’ll find a picnic area and museum at the top.

North Carolina Arboretum

The Arboretum is one of our treasures, located just south of Asheville. It features gorgeous cultivated gardens and groom trails. The paved paths are wheelchair accessible and you can borrow one at no charge in the Education Center and the Baker Exhibit Center. This is one of our favorite nature walks in the area, and you’ll come up close and personal with some of our most beautiful scenery!

Asheville Greenway

Asheville offers a number of greenways to brighten our days. Our pick for the best in terms of accessibility is the French Broad River Greenway. It has 2.8 miles of paved paths that connect to several parks along the river.

Accessible Waterfalls In and Near Asheville

There are also a number of waterfalls that you can enjoy, often from the roadside. Check out:

  • Bridal Veil Falls
  • Dry Falls
  • Cullasaja Falls 
  • Hooker Falls
  • Looking Glass Falls
  • Sliding Rock
  • Sunburst Falls 
  • Tom Branch Falls

Is there anything more awe-inspiring - and yet soothing - than a waterfall?

Getting To Accessible Hiking Trails in Asheville

When you are living with mobility challenges, that doesn't mean you need to limit your ability to explore and enjoy the world around you. Loyal Lifts provides accessible transportation so you can get out and experience the best that Asheville and Western North Carolina has to offer. 

If you want to visit a waterfall or take an accessible hike along our greenways, through parks, or along mountain trails, we are here to help. We’ll be glad to pick you up in our luxury-upfitted vehicles and then bring you home after your adventure.

Our goal is to ensure that you never miss out on any activity that matters to you. Whether it’s routine grocery shopping or taking a big drink of fresh air on our area’s trails, Loyal Lifts will get you there - and back - safely and in style. Contact us