8
ASHEVILLE
THE LAND OF THE SKY
Deep Gap Trail (Mt. Mitchell, Parkway North MP
388): In just 4.5 miles, Deep Gap Trail, which is also known as the Black
Mountain Crest Trail, crosses four 6,000-foot peaks while taking hikers across
rocky out croppings and through spruce-fir forests. While this is a rugged trail that
makes hikers work for their views of the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains, the views
from the peaks of Mt. Craig, Big Tom, Cattail Peak and Potato Hill are among the
best in the East. Campers should consider getting an early start to make it to Deep
Gap in order to grab a tent site at the popular National Forest campsite. Don’t
forget your binoculars because this is a great spot to catch a glimpse of the Winter
Wren and Blackburnian Warbler. Directions from Asheville: Head north on the
Blue Ridge Parkway to milepost 388 to the entrance of Mt. Mitchell State Park. The trail
starts near the picnic area.
Bent Creek Trails: Over 30 miles of mountain bike trails make
Bent Creek the go-to spot for Asheville locals looking to get in some
fun, flowy miles during the work week or on weekends.Whether looking for
long gravel routes for training or seeking out steep technical terrain, riders
will find a good mix of both at Bent Creek.The most popular downhill trails
include Green’s Lick, Ingles Field Gap and Lower Sidehill. We recommend
making the climb to Five Points and checking out the countless variations
available. Directions from Asheville: Take I-240 W to I-26 E and get off on
Exit 33, NC 191/Brevard Rd.Turn left and head south on NC 191 for 2 miles. Turn
right at the stoplight onto Bent Creek Ranch Road about 2 miles and look for
parking at the Rice Pinnacle Parking Area.
Fish The North Mills River: For anglers looking to get off
the beaten path and into the forest, look no further than the delayedharvest waters of the North Mills River. Located halfway between Brevard
and Asheville, the tight confines of the river’s forested banks, small pools
and crystal clear waters offer a nice change of scenery from many of the
roadside fishing destinations popular across western North Carolina.
From the fishing near the entrance to the forest at the paved parking area
to the seldom seen holes deep in the forest, the North Mills River Rec ɕ