Hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains in Asheville – What a getaway!!!

By Mark A. Leon

We are the Lowcountry.  Not exactly the challenging streets of San Francisco or the mountains of Nepal, but what we do have just four short hours away is one of our favorite getaways, Asheville, North Carolina.  For those that are beloved fans of the outdoors and hiking, Asheville may already be a second home.  For others, who have always said “We should plan a trip to Asheville” but never do, we think this article may get you off your couch and start packing a bag.  We took a weekend excursion to Asheville to do a little hiking (over one mile above sea level) and enjoyed the majestic backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains.  Where else can you get a bird’s eye view of the Biltmore Estate from high above in the clouds?

Enjoy these breathtaking pictures and then start planning for your little escape from the ocean view to the mountain view.

We started our journey 4980 feet above sea level.

That cool mountain air is so refreshing.

The path has seen many footsteps in the past.

Beautiful flowers and berries along the way.

The journey starts to get steep.

Beautiful steps made for children and adults alike.

Between the tip of the mountain peak and the clouds.

Does it get more beautiful?

So high, your prayers can be heard right away.

So close to the top.

We reached the top and enjoyed the scenic overlook and left our mark with these stones.

Can’t get more closer to heaven.

The sun is setting.  Time to make our way down the mountain.

We did stop on the way down to smell the flowers.

Enjoying the setting sun.

While you are in Asheville, make sure you stop at the “Before I Die” wall and put your wish in writing.

There you have it.  The Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville will take away to a place of spiritual cleansing, mental escape and a remarkably memorable experience.  Go soon and enjoy a cool walk before the winter sets in.