Accessibility
ADA paths, wheelchair loans at front desk
Pets
Leashed dogs welcome on trails, not in buildings
Parking Fee
$25/vehicle
Directions
20 Frederick Law Olmsted Way Asheville, NC 28806-9315
I-26 W to Exit 33, NC 191 S to Blue Ridge Parkway
Hours
8 AM – 9 PM (Apr–Oct)
8 AM – 7 PM (Nov–Mar)
For 40 years, inspiring connection with nature
through wonder, knowledge, and stewardship
GARDENS
TRAILS
EDUCATION & PROGRAMS
SEE WHAT'S HAPPENING
Featured Trail:
The Carolina Mountain Trail
Experience three different kinds of forest – pine, mixed hardwood, and ericaceous on the Carolina Mountain Trail. This 1.2-mile moderate hike begins behind the Education Center and winds downhill toward the rippling waters of Bent Creek and the Wolf Branch cascades.
Explore the NC Arboretum
Weddings & Private Events
Join us for a paid guided walking tour of the gardens! Advanced scheduling is required.
ecoExplore
Developed by The North Carolina Arboretum, this innovative program encourages kids to explore the outdoors and participate in citizen science.
Certificate Programs
The North Carolina Arboretum offers two Certificates of Merit: Blue Ridge Naturalist & Blue Ridge EcoGardener
Adult Education Classes
Hands-on courses in horticulture, nature arts, conservation science, and wellness taught by expert instructors
Explore More
Browse exhibitions, classes, and special events for all ages.
Upcoming Education Classes
Southern Appalachian Birds Through the Seasons
Southern Appalachian Birds Through the Seasons
. In this class we will discuss the seasonal patterns of southern Appalachian birds and focus on some of the major species and their annual life cycles.
Autumn Plein Air Painting in the Gardens
Autumn Plein Air Painting in the Gardens
There is no better way to relax and connect with your creative side and nature than en plein air painting.
LET THERE BE LIGHT!!: Mosaic Glass Block Lamp Workshop
LET THERE BE LIGHT!!: Mosaic Glass Block Lamp Workshop
Bring some light into these short days!! Convert a 7" Glass Block into a stunning mosaic table lamp. Great class for beginners.
History and Archaeology of the Arboretum
History and Archaeology of the Arboretum
This walk, led by archaeologists Bob and Mary Noel, will give participants a chance to see and hear about past occupants of this land, and even a little history about how it became the state's Arboretum.
Fall Tree ID
Fall Tree ID
Join this class as we discuss how to use different characteristics and field guides to identify common trees of Western North Carolina found here at the NC Arboretum.
Support the Arboretum
Your support is vital to the Arboretum, where the power of trees makes a positive impact on people’s lives.
Upcoming Events
Winter Lights
Experience Asheville’s Brightest Holiday Tradition! Winter Lights is a spectacular open-air walk-through light show illuminating the gardens with over one million lights!
Arbor Evenings
June 10 – September 17, 2026
Baker Event Lawn
Sip and stroll through the gardens in the glow of the golden hour, all while listening to live music from a variety of local and regional artists! Arbor Evenings runs Wednesdays and Thursdays June 10 through September 17, 2026 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
