Outdoor Fun in Brevard and Beyond

The natural beauty of Brevard, North Carolina and the surrounding area astounds one and all, whether you are viewing it from the slim seat of your road bike or the comfort of your air conditioned car. Either way, the hilly routes afford enjoyable rides and the panoramas of the Blue Ridge Mountains delight whether you’re pedaling along a windy road or cruising along a scenic parkway. Best of all, you’ll find an abundance of places to stop to enjoy the views up close and personal or to sit and sip a brew or specialty coffee after a long day out on the trail.

At only about thirty miles away from beautiful Asheville, North Carolina, it’s no wonder that most folks choose to spend about a week in the area to take in all of the sights. If you love nature, this is where you want to go.

It’s no wonder that this place is considered to be the birthplace of forest conservation in America. Go to The Cradle of Forestry Historic Site outside of Brevard to learn how at the end of the nineteenth century the first forestry school in the United States was founded. Through interactive exhibits and a wonderful movie that had premiered on PBS, you can learn all about the life of the forests and what it takes to manage them. Historic buildings, including an old sawmill, a logging locomotive, trails and other features make this site a worthwhile place to visit. Special events and concerts such as traditional Appalachian music performances also take place in their outdoor amphitheater during the summer months.

Known as “the land of the waterfalls,” Brevard and Transylvania County are reputed for their more than 250 waterfalls, many of which are

located within the various national and state forests. Some are quite accessible, others serve as the reward to a long and somewhat challenging hike. As always, know before you go, be prepared for inclement weather, which is often most welcome because it’s the passing storms that produce the most magical rainbows.

You’ll find some glorious cascades in the Pisgah National Forest as well as at the Nantahala National Forest and Dupont State Forest, to name a few. Be sure to visit the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education, a wonderful introduction to this verdant land, located within the Pisgah National Forest. This is also a great (and safe) place to become acquainted with North Carolina’s wildlife and mountain habitats. Shopping in their gift shop is fun, too.

Once you’ve been introduced to the nature and wildlife of this part of the Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll surely want to head out and explore on your own. Fortunately there’s a large variety of trails and sites to explore for all levels of ability and enthusiasm. Whether hiking, biking, camping, fishing, boating or just touring about, there are also all kinds of outfitters that can hook you up with a memorable adventure. There’s even fun for golfers. Whatever you choose to do, know that it’s best to plan ahead and reserve in advance, particularly during the season.

If you’re into music, you’re also well served in Brevard. Is there anything more enjoyable than sitting outside listening to wonderful music on a summer’s eve? You can do that in a superlative setting at the Brevard Music Center. Founded in 1936, this is where hundreds of young people come every summer to study and play beside some of the world’s top musicians. The public benefits not only by their contribution to society but here on the premises where they hold a symphony of concerts throughout the summer.

No wonder there are so many delightful restaurants and food emporiums in and around Brevard where you can source delicious food and drink to accompany a musical outing, a day out on the trail or settle into a long and leisurely meal. From high-styling bistrot fare to barbecue to gelato, there’s something for everyone. You just have to head out and explore.