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
Long-term Effects of Hurricane Helene on Southern Appalachian Ecosystems
Long-term Effects of Hurricane Helene on Southern Appalachian Ecosystems
We will investigate the long-term effects of Hurricane Helene on the natural plant and animal communities of Western North Carolina during this illustrated lecture followed by a short walk on Arboretum grounds to observe the ongoing recovery of hurricane-damaged areas.
Walking Meditation & Qigong
Walking Meditation & Qigong
Enjoy a slow, mindful walking meditation through the gardens.
Bats of the NC Arboretum with Mist Netting Demonstration
Bats of the NC Arboretum with Mist Netting Demonstration
Join a group of biologists for a presentation about the recent acoustic bat study they conducted on the Arboretum's property this summer and which species they found.
Fall Tree ID
Fall Tree ID
Learn how to use many different characteristics of our common trees to identify them and learn some other helpful information along the way.
Rooted & Regulated: Adaptogens and Herbal Allies for Blood Sugar, Stress & Nervous System Balance
Rooted & Regulated: Adaptogens and Herbal Allies for Blood Sugar, Stress & Nervous System Balance
In this class, we'll explore how adaptogens and other plant allies can support stress resilience, nervous system regulation, and healthy blood sugar.
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.
