Outdoors cradle OF FORESTRY
The Cradle of Forestry in America Heritage Site is one of the must-see attractions in Transylvania County and Pisgah National Forest. This 6,500-acre tract, the historic core of the national forest, was once part of George W. Vanderbilt’ s Biltmore Estate.
The Cradle, located four miles south of the Blue Ridge Parkway off U. S. 276, offers trails, exhibits, music and special events designed to illustrate the relationship between people and forests, to tell the story of American forestry’ s roots, and to invite all ages to enjoy Pisgah National Forest.
The 20,000-square-foot Forest Discovery Center, which includes several hands-on exhibits, a gift shop and café, is at the heart of the site. Each summer several programs and guided trail tours are offered at the Center. Scavenger hunts and Adventure Packs invite indoor and outdoor exploration.
THIS SUMMER’ S EVENTS INCLUDE:
– Appalachian Folkways –
Appalachian Folkways, which are all-day events celebrating the crafts and skills found in the Southern Appalachian mountains, on May 25 June 15 and July 27.
– Get Outdoors –
National Get Outdoors Day on June 8.
– Films –
In the Forest Discovery Center, the film“ First in Forestry: Carl Alwin Schenck and the Biltmore Forest School” is shown daily on the hour and half hour. A terrarium depicts a forest wetland with live amphibians. – Woodsy Owl –
Woodsy Owl’ s Curiosity Club, a nature based program for children ages 4-7, is offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays, from June 12 – Aug. 8, from 10:30 a. m. to noon.
– Songcatchers –
The Songcatchers Music Series featuring concerts each Sunday afternoon in July; Train History Day on July 13, a“ Bears” Workshop on Aug. 1; and Smokey Bear’ s 75th Birthday Party on Aug. 10.
– Junior Forester –
The Cradle of Forestry’ s Junior Forester program for children ages 8-12 is held every Thursday, from June 13-Aug. 8, 10:30 a. m.-12:30 p. m. Reservations are required for both programs as space is limited. The cost is $ 5 per child; accompanying adults are admitted for half-price regular admission($ 3) and free for Friends of the Cradle members.
– Blue Ghost Twilight –
In Search of Blue Ghosts Twilight Tour, which will also be held on May 28, 29, 30, 31 and June 1.
16 TRANSYLVANIA EXPLORER 2026