15 Best Running Trails In Asheville You Can Visit Today
Asheville, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, is a runner’s paradise with its scenic trails and picturesque landscapes.
In this article, we will introduce you to the 15 best running trails in Asheville, ranging from short, easy routes to longer, more challenging paths.
Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, these trails will take you on a journey through some of Asheville’s most beautiful scenery and offer an unforgettable running experience.
So without further ado, get ready to lace up your shoes, and let’s hit the running paths of Asheville, NC!
15 Best Running Trails In Asheville
1. Owl Ridge Trail
The Owl Ridge running trail is a popular and challenging trail located in the Bent Creek Experimental Forest just outside of Asheville.
The trail is approximately 8.7 km long and is known for its relative ease and pleasant solitude.
One of the highlights of the Owl Ridge Trail is the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The trail takes runners to several overlooks that offer panoramic vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding forest.
2. Big Berea Trail, Bull Creek Trail, And White Pine Loop
The Big Berea Trail, Bull Creek Trail, and White Pine Loop are three interconnected trails located near Asheville.
This is another relatively easy route that can take around forty minutes to complete.
As well as running, this loop trail is also popular with hikers and bird watchers thanks to the plethora of wildlife in the area.
3. Bent Creek Network: Wolf Branch Loop
The Bent Creek Network is a popular system of trails located in the Bent Creek Experimental Forest just outside of Asheville.
The Wolf Branch Loop is one of the many trails that make up this network.
The Wolf Branch Loop is approximately 11.7 km long and is considered to be a moderately difficult trail.
The average time for completion of the trail is just over three hours, and you will also find hikers, bird watchers, and fishing enthusiasts along the trail too.
If this is a trail that interests you, you will find that the best times to visit are from April through to October.
4. Pine Tree Loop
The Pine Tree Loop is a scenic and easy trail located in the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville.
The trail is approximately 5.1 km long and is suitable for runners of all skill levels.
The trail begins at the entrance to the Arboretum and follows a gentle, rolling path through a mixed forest of pine and hardwood trees.
Along the way, runners will encounter several small streams and a variety of native plants and wildlife.
The Pine Tree Loop is a peaceful and scenic trail that offers a relaxing running experience in the heart of North Carolina.
5. Richmond Hill Park Trail
An easy and short trail that only takes around thirty-five minutes to complete on average, Richmond Hill Park trail is 2.4 km long and can be found in southwest Asheville.
The trail begins at the entrance to Richmond Hill Park and winds its way through a mix of hardwood forests, open meadows, and rocky outcroppings.
Along the way, runners will encounter several small streams and a variety of native plants and wildlife.
The Richmond Hill Park Trail is a diverse and scenic trail system that offers a rewarding running experience in the heart of southwest Asheville.
6. Beaver Lake Perimeter Trail Loop
Another easy running route in Asheville is the Beaver Lake Perimeter Trail Loop. It is 3.1 km long and is a popular place for bird watching, paddle sports, and fishing as well as runners.
The trail encircles Beaver Lake, a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking.
The trail winds its way through a mix of hardwood forests and open meadows, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Unfortunately, you can’t bring your canine companions on this trail, as dogs are not allowed.
7. French Broad River Greenway To New Belgium Brewery
This is an easy but long running trail in Asheville, NC. It is 14.3 km long and takes around two hours and forty-five minutes.
The French Broad River Greenway to New Belgium Brewery is open all year round and follows the French Broad River Greenway, a paved trail that runs along the banks of the French Broad River.
The trail takes runners to several overlooks that offer panoramic vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the French Broad River.
The trail ends at the New Belgium Brewery, a popular destination for beer lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The brewery features a large outdoor patio, live music, and a variety of locally brewed beers.
8. Folk Art Center
This is a short and easy running spot in Asheville. Quite an urban trail, not an “out in the woods” type of path.
2.1 km trail should only take around thirty minutes to complete. This trail is popular for walkers and runners thanks to the serene and peaceful nature.
The Folk Art Center is an out-and-back running trail, which is a type of running route where a runner goes out for a certain distance, then turns around and runs back along the same route.
This straightforward route allows runners to track their distance accurately and maintain a consistent pace.
9. Blue Ridge Parkway Trail: Valley Springs
Another out-and-back running trail, the Valley Springs trail in Blue Ridge Parkway, is 9.8 km long and takes around two hours and a half to complete.
Despite its long length, it is another relatively easy running trail.
The Blue Ridge Parkway Trail: Valley Springs is a beautiful and rewarding running trail that offers a unique perspective of the Appalachian Mountains and the natural beauty of western North Carolina.
10. Natural Garden, Bent Creek, And Carolina Mountain Loop
The Natural Garden, Bent Creek, and Carolina Mountain Loop is a scenic and challenging running trail located in Asheville.
The trail is approximately 4.3 km long and combines three different trails to offer a unique and varied running experience.
The trail begins at the Botanical Gardens at Asheville, a beautiful garden featuring a wide variety of native plants and flowers.
Runners can explore the gardens before heading out on the trail.
From the Botanical Gardens, the trail follows the Bent Creek Trail, which winds its way through the Bent Creek Experimental Forest.
After completing the Bent Creek Trail, the trail continues on to the Carolina Mountain Trail.
The trail then loops back to the Botanical Gardens via the Homestead Trail and the Hard Times Road, offering a peaceful and serene finish to the run.
11. Bull Mountain Trail
Another simple and easy running trail in The Asheville area, Bull Mountain Trail is 2.4 km long and takes an average of 37 minutes to finish.
This is another out-and-back running trail that winds through the woods, with a wide and paved trail and a gradual incline.
The trail features pleasant views of the nearby mountains, making for a particularly scenic running trail.
12. Masters Park: Maple Drive To Blue Ridge Parkway
Masters Park: Maple Drive to Blue Ridge Parkway is a beautiful and challenging running trail located in Asheville.
The trail is approximately 0.6 km long and whilst it is only short- taking an average of eighteen minutes to complete-, it is a moderately difficult trail.
This is a challenging yet rewarding running trail that offers stunning views of the natural beauty of western North Carolina.
It is suitable for experienced runners who enjoy a mix of terrain and scenery.
13. Sunset Trail
Sunset Trail is another easy out-and-back trail near Asheville. It takes around twenty minutes to complete and is 1.1 km long.
As the name suggests, the Sunset Trail is a great spot to catch a stunning sunset over the mountains. It is great for walking, hiking, as well as running.
The open meadows provide unobstructed views of the western horizon, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
14. Hard Times Road Trail
Hard Times Road Trail is a moderate and scenic running trail located in the Pisgah National Forest near Asheville.
The trail is approximately 12.7 km long and features a mix of forested sections and open meadows, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Despite its moderate level of difficulty, the Hard Times Road Trail is suitable for runners of all skill levels and is a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
The trail offers a mix of challenging terrain and stunning scenery, making it a great spot for a day hike or a longer trail run.
15. Shope Creek Road Loop
Another moderate running trail in Asheville in terms of difficulty, Shope Creek Road Loop features a scenic creek crossing, where runners can take a break and cool off in the refreshing water.
This 3.2 km long trail is best suited for the months between March and November and is a great spot to take in the beauty of the surrounding mountains and is suitable for runners of all skill levels.
Final Thoughts
From the Blue Ridge Parkway Trail to the Beaver Lake Perimeter Trail Loop, there is no shortage of scenic and enjoyable running trails to explore in and around Asheville, NC.
Whether you are a local or just visiting, be sure to check out these top 15 running trails in Asheville!
These are the best places to run in Asheville and offer something to avid runners and casual joggers alike.
