Gorgeous Asheville, NC is surrounded by mountains, stunning nature, and some of the best state parks in the state, where you can unplug and enjoy the day. These great parks are well within driving distance of Asheville, offer varied trails for every hiking level and ability, and allow you to soak in the best of this region. Your comfortable 2022 Lincoln Aviator with adaptive cruise control and a quick Wi-Fi hotspot is the ideal ride.
1. Mount Mitchell
Mount Mitchell is less than an hour from Asheville and offers tons of different hiking trails, camping, and robust facilities, so you’ll never be too far away from any amenities you might need. Mount Mitchell sits at a towering 6,684 feet and offers a fantastic view of the landscape. There’s also plenty of Fraser firs, wildlife, and a nearby museum where you can learn all about the park and its topography.
This park is also incredibly easy to get to, with ample parking and well-marked trails. Arrive early and plan to spend the better part of the day exploring Mount Mitchell and still get back to Asheville in time for dinner.
2. Chimney Rock
Chimney Rock park is about an hour away from downtown Asheville, and it’s a fantastic place to go biking or hiking in the mountains. You can also fish, rock climb, or enjoy a relaxing picnic with the family. Don’t worry if you forget to pack your picnic because there are snack stands and restaurants nearby, as well as shelters and pavilions to rest and relax after a long hike.
This park also has a famous claim to fame, as Last of the Mohicans filmed some of its most iconic scenes in the park, and once you summit, you’ll understand why the directors chose this location. If you don’t want to climb to the top of the rock itself, you can take a quick elevator ride or brave the tough but rewarding trek up.
3. Lake James State Park
Lake James State Park at 2785 NC Hwy. 126 is just shy of an hour east of Asheville, with winding hiking and biking trails, swimming, boating, and opportunities to find that perfect fish. You can also camp out there. With convenient shelters and pavilions, trails for all levels, and plenty of kid-appropriate activities, this park is an excellent option for your next family-friendly outing.
Roam just a bit outside Asheville, and you’ll find stunning parks that showcase why North Carolina is one of the most beautiful states in the country. Visit us at Asheville Lincoln and test drive one of our new or used vehicles, perfect for exploring all these parks today.
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