Blue Ridge Parkway: Waterfall Hike & Scenic Drive with Pickup

Summary

Asheville waterfall hikes along Blue Ridge Parkway, forest trails, mountain air

You’ll join a small group for a guided day trip from Asheville with pickup included, hiking about three miles through Pisgah National Forest and nearby state forest trails. Expect stops at three waterfalls, time for snacks by the water, and stories from your local guide as you travel along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The fresh air and steady rhythm of mountain streams might just stick with you.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit it — I booked the Blue Ridge Parkway waterfalls hiking tour mostly because I was restless in Asheville and needed some mountain air. Didn’t expect to feel that quiet excitement when our guide, Mark, pulled up right outside my Airbnb (felt a bit like being a kid again). The van was cozy, windows big enough to watch the city fade into green hills. Someone behind me kept pointing out wildflowers — I think she was a local too, or just really into botany.

The first stop in Pisgah National Forest smelled like wet earth and pine needles. Mark handed us snacks (granola bars, nothing fancy but somehow perfect after the drive) and told us about Cherokee legends tied to these woods. The hike itself wasn’t hard — maybe three miles total? — but there were moments where the trail turned slick under my boots. I slowed down just to listen to the water before we reached the first falls. It’s louder than you’d think, almost echoing through the trees. I tried taking photos but honestly, none of them caught how cool the mist felt on my face.

We hit two more waterfalls after that, each one tucked away in its own little pocket of forest. At one point Mark laughed at my attempt to pronounce “Pisgah” (I still don’t know if I got it right). There were only six of us so it felt easygoing — nobody rushed ahead or made me feel slow when I stopped for a breath. The drive back along the Blue Ridge Parkway was quieter; everyone just sort of stared out at those rolling mountains. I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Blue Ridge Parkway and Waterfalls Tour

• Pick up from Asheville accommodation
• Drive along Blue Ridge Parkway
• Visit first waterfall in Pisgah National Forest
• Visit two waterfalls in state forest
• Hike approximately 3 miles on trails
• Enjoy included snacks and drinks
• Return to Asheville by 1:30 p.m.

Top questions

How long is the Blue Ridge Parkway waterfalls hiking tour?

The tour lasts about half a day, returning to Asheville by around 1:30 p.m.

Is hotel pickup included in this Asheville hiking tour?

Yes, hotel pickup is included if you’re within 3 miles of downtown Asheville.

How difficult is the hiking part of this tour?

The hike covers about 3 miles on easy to moderate trails with stops at waterfalls.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the hike?

Yes, drinks and snacks are included on this Blue Ridge Parkway day trip.

What should I wear for the waterfall hike near Asheville?

Wear comfortable shoes or hiking boots suitable for uneven trails; dress for changing weather.

How many people are on each tour group?

The maximum group size is six people per tour.

Can children join this Blue Ridge Parkway hiking tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for children under 10 years old.

Will we visit more than one waterfall on this day trip from Asheville?

Yes, you’ll visit three different waterfalls during the hike.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup within central Asheville or an easy meeting spot downtown if you’re staying further out. You’ll travel in a comfortable van with all window seating and enjoy drinks plus snacks during stops at each waterfall before returning early afternoon.