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Twelve Things To Do in Hendersonville, NC

1. Historic Downtown Hendersonville

Start your trip by exploring Historic Downtown Hendersonville, where you can get a taste of the local culture before venturing out into nature. The area offers:

• Mast General Store: Stock up on supplies and local products.
• Local Boutiques: Shop for outdoor gear or unique souvenirs.
• Dining on Main Street: Refuel with a variety of local eateries before or after your outdoor adventures.

Downtown Hendersonville isn’t just about shopping and dining. It’s also a place where history and entertainment come together. The Henderson County Heritage Museum offers a fascinating dive into the area’s past, with exhibits on early settlers and the development of the region. 

In addition, the Mineral and Lapidary Museum of Henderson County showcases local gems and minerals, providing insight into the geological richness of the area. Street Performances and Seasonal Festivals often take place downtown, so it’s worth checking the events calendar before your visit. These events bring added life and vibrancy to the already charming streets of Hendersonville.

2. Jump Off Rock

For those looking for stunning views without a long hike, Jump Off Rock is perfect.

• Jump Off Rock is a Stunning Overlook: Just a short drive from downtown, Jump Off Rock offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
• Jump Off Rock Has Great Walking Trails: Enjoy several short trails that wind around the area, each offering different views.
• Jump Off Rock is a Picnic Spot: It’s also a great place to enjoy a picnic with an unforgettable backdrop.

3. DuPont State Recreational Forest

DuPont State Recreational Forest is a must-see for waterfall seekers and hikers.

• Triple Falls & High Falls: Both falls are accessible by moderate trails that offer incredible views.
• Bridal Veil Falls: Hike to this beautiful waterfall featured in movies like The Last of the Mohicans.
• Lake Julia: Enjoy a quieter trail to this serene lake, perfect for a tranquil retreat in nature.
• Rock Climbing: DuPont Forest also offers rock climbing opportunities, making it an ideal spot for adventure enthusiasts. Several rock faces within the park are open to climbers of different skill levels.
• Mountain Biking: DuPont is a premier mountain biking destination.

DuPont State Recreational Forest is a mountain biking haven with over 80 miles of trails suitable for all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, there are numerous trails to explore. 

Ridgeline Trail is one of the most popular, offering flowing singletrack that is both challenging and incredibly scenic. For those interested, there are also guided bike tours available, providing a great introduction to the best trails the forest has to offer.

4. Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site

Carl Sandburg Home is an excellent mix of history and outdoor beauty, providing a memorable experience for all ages.

• Hiking Trails: The property features several trails, including Glassy Mountain Trail, which offers an impressive summit view.
• Goat Barn: Kids will love visiting the goat barn and interacting with the friendly animals.
• Educational Tours: The park offers educational tours for those interested in learning more about Carl Sandburg and his legacy. These tours provide a glimpse into the poet’s life while enjoying the beautiful landscape.

Throughout the year, the Carl Sandburg Home hosts a variety of seasonal events such as poetry readings, living history demonstrations, and music festivals. These activities help bring Sandburg’s legacy to life and make a visit to the estate much more immersive. The Lilac Walk in spring is particularly popular, as it showcases the estate’s beautiful gardens in full bloom, adding vibrant color to your hiking experience.

5. Apple Orchards and The Apple Festival

If you’re visiting in the fall, don’t miss Hendersonville’s rich apple-growing heritage.

• Sky Top Orchard: Pick your own apples while soaking in beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
• Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard: A great place for family fun, offering apple picking, hayrides, and corn mazes.
• North Carolina Apple Festival: Held annually over Labor Day weekend, this festival offers live music, local crafts, and, of course, lots of apples.
• Cider Tasting: Visit one of the local cideries for a tasting of freshly made apple cider, both hard and non-alcoholic. It's the perfect way to end a day at the orchards.

Besides picking apples, these orchards offer an array of activities like wagon rides, corn mazes, and even apple cannon shooting. During the fall, many orchards also host farm-to-table dinners and bonfire nights, making for a perfect evening activity. For a unique culinary experience, try some of the apple-flavored baked goods, like apple cider donuts or pies, available at many of these orchards.

6. Holmes Educational State Forest

Holmes Educational State Forest offers a great opportunity for education and outdoor enjoyment.

• Talking Trees Trail: An interactive trail with recorded messages that teach about forest ecology.
• Picnic Facilities: Bring a lunch and enjoy one of the picnic areas while surrounded by natural beauty.
• Educational Exhibits: Explore hands-on exhibits and learn about the local environment.
• Forest Demonstrations: Check the schedule for forestry demonstrations where experts show how the forest is managed sustainably, adding an educational component to your visit.

Holmes Educational State Forest also offers guided programs for children and families. These include tree identification walks, birdwatching sessions, and junior ranger activities aimed at educating young visitors about the forest ecosystem in a fun and engaging way. 

The Nature Scavenger Hunt is a favorite among kids, providing them with an exciting way to explore the forest while learning about its diverse wildlife and plant species.

7. Bearwallow Mountain

For a moderate hike with a fantastic payoff, Bearwallow Mountain is the place to go.

• Scenic Summit: The 2-mile round-trip trail takes you to a grassy summit with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
• Pasture Views: Hike through picturesque pastures often dotted with grazing cows, making it a unique and charming experience.
• Sunrise and Sunset Hikes: Bearwallow Mountain is particularly popular for sunrise and sunset hikes, providing some of the most stunning mountain views during the golden hours.

Bearwallow Mountain is accessible year-round, and winter hikes offer a completely different, yet equally stunning, perspective. With fewer leaves on the trees, the winter views are often even more expansive, and the snow-covered pastures create a tranquil and picturesque scene. Snowshoeing is also possible here during particularly snowy winters, providing an added element of adventure.

8. Pisgah National Forest

Pisgah National Forest is perfect for those seeking deeper adventure, with a wide variety of trails and natural sights.

• Looking Glass Falls: One of the most iconic waterfalls in the area, it’s easily accessible and offers great photo opportunities.
• Sliding Rock: A natural water slide, Sliding Rock is an exhilarating way to cool off in the summer. Visitors can slide down a smooth rock face into a cool mountain pool below.
• John Rock Trail: A challenging hike that rewards you with panoramic views of Looking Glass Rock from the top. This is a favorite among local hikers and offers a unique perspective on the Pisgah landscape.
• Mountain Biking: There are endless mountain biking opportunities in Pisgah. 

For those looking to extend their adventure, backcountry camping is allowed in Pisgah National Forest, and there are also several developed campgrounds, such as Davidson River Campground. Camping under the stars amidst towering trees and the sounds of the forest is an experience you won’t forget. Many campers enjoy campfire storytelling and stargazing as highlights of their overnight adventures in Pisgah.

9. Bullington Gardens

For a peaceful and botanical outing, Bullington Gardens is a beautiful place to unwind.

• Themed Gardens: Walk through butterfly and therapy gardens, perfect for a gentle stroll.
• Nature Trails: The gardens are surrounded by nature trails that are great for leisurely walks.
• Seasonal Events: Check the calendar for seasonal events that allow for unique learning opportunities.
• Workshops and Classes: Participate in workshops ranging from gardening to nature photography. Bullington Gardens is a community hub for those looking to learn more about horticulture and the natural environment.

10. The Village of Flat Rock

Just minutes away from Hendersonville, The Village of Flat Rock has a charm all its own.

• Flat Rock Playhouse: Known as the state theater of North Carolina, offering a variety of performances.
• The Park at Flat Rock: Ideal for gentle walks, this park has open spaces, a pond, and numerous trails for visitors of all ages.
• Flat Rock Bakery: Stop by Flat Rock Bakery for some of the best pastries and bread in the area. It’s the perfect place to grab a snack after exploring.
• Historic Homes Walking Tour: Flat Rock is home to several historic homes, and a self-guided walking tour is available for those interested in the local history and architecture.

11. Mills River Park

Just a short drive from Hendersonville, Mills River Park is a great spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.

• Fishing and Kayaking: The park features river access for kayaking and fishing enthusiasts.
• Walking Trails: Stroll along the flat, paved trails that wind through scenic sections of the park.
• Dog Park: If you're traveling with your four-legged friend, the dog park offers a perfect place to let them run.
• Disc Golf Course: Mills River Park has an 18-hole disc golf course, providing a fun and active way to spend time outdoors.

Mills River Park is also a hub for community events. During the summer months, look out for outdoor movie nights, live music concerts, and farmers’ markets hosted in the park. The annual Mills River Day celebration is a great event to attend, featuring environmental exhibits, kids' activities, and local vendors.

12. French Broad River Paddle Trail

For a unique adventure, the French Broad River Paddle Trail offers an exciting way to explore the area from the water.

• Kayaking and Canoeing: Bring your kayak or canoe and enjoy paddling along one of North Carolina's most iconic rivers.
• Camping Sites: Several campsites along the river offer an immersive experience for those wanting to extend their adventure overnight.
• Wildlife and Scenic Beauty: The river is home to numerous wildlife species, and paddlers can enjoy scenic views all along the way.
• Fishing Opportunities: The French Broad River is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of species, including bass and trout.

For a truly unique experience, consider combining your paddle trip with a riverside dining experience. Several local outfitters offer packages that include a guided paddle tour followed by a gourmet picnic along the riverbanks featuring local produce and regional specialties. It’s a perfect way to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area.

Tekoa Retreats: Your Home Base For Exploring Hendersonville and Western North Carolina

Hendersonville, North Carolina, is an outdoor lover’s paradise. With hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, apple orchards, and peaceful parks, this area offers something for everyone looking to reconnect with nature. Whether you're after breathtaking views, tranquil walks, or hands-on exploration, Hendersonville has plenty to offer.

If you're planning a retreat or group event near Hendersonville, Tekoa Retreats is ready to provide an enriching and peaceful environment. Contact us today to learn more about how we can make your retreat an unforgettable experience.