Spring is an amazing time here in Western North Carolina. The mountains come to life with the first blossoms of color, accompanied by the return of birds and other wildlife. If you are looking for a reason to come visit us, here are our top 5 spring activities in Western North Carolina!
Fish the Mountain Streams.
For the ultimate fly fishing experience, hire an expert guide from Tuckaseegee Fly Shop in Waynesville. Book a half-or full-day excursion and explore the stunning rushing mountain streams, all while learning the art of fly fishing. Alternatively, cast your own line in the Mountain Heritage Trout Waters. This North Carolina initiative is one of the most popular fishing programs in the country. Each year, both novice and experienced anglers journey to the mountains to enjoy the pristine waters. (Note that the specific details on open fishing dates vary by county.) Insider Tip: if you don’t have fishing equipment with you, don’t fret; the visitor center has loaner rods and tackle boxes you can borrow!
Experience the Grandeur of Biltmore in Bloom.
Celebrate Spring with the spectacular display of blooms across the Biltmore estate. Starting on the first day of spring, Biltmore hosts Biltmore Blooms; this festival of flowers features more than 100,000 bulbs planted on the estate. Guests can stroll through the gardens and conservatory, tour the spectacular main house, enjoy a tasting at the winery, or take in one of the special exhibitions. Insider Tip: If this is your first visit to the Biltmore, plan on spending the better part of a day on the property, and be sure to book your ticket in advance of your visit.
Take in the Wildflowers along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Each Spring, wildflowers cover the mountains all along the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the nations most scenic driving routes. Hills are covered in rhododendron, larkspur, foamflower, jack-in-the-pulpit, evening primrose, bellflower, and many more. Just 9 minutes from The Yellow House, the Parkway offers excellent views and great hikes. One of the best flower-viewing hikes in the area is Graveyard Fields, which features easy-to-navigate trails as well as two waterfalls. Insider Tip: Graveyard Fields is one of the most popular areas for hiking, so head out earlier in the day as the parking lot can become congested in the afternoon.
Indulge in a Walking Food Tour (or Beer Tour) in nearby Asheville.
With a wonderful and diverse assortment of restaurants, Asheville is a hidden gem for foodies. Now that the weather has warmed, venture forth and eat! Two tour companies operate daily walking tours that showcase some of the city’s hidden culinary gems: Eating Asheville and Asheville Food Tours. Be sure to come hungry! If Beer is more of your thing, check out Asheville Brews Cruise, a multi-brewery tour with behind-the-scenes tours at some of the most interesting and innovative breweries around. Insider Tip: These tours fill up quickly, so be sure to book your tickets well in advance.
Discover Breathtaking Waterfalls.
Spring rains cause the rivers to swell and the waterfalls become especially spectacular. Three local favorites are Looking Glass Falls (near Brevard), Mingo Falls (near Cherokee) and Dry Falls (near Highlands). All have dedicated parking areas and will not disappoint! Insider Tip: Be sure to keep your eyes open for the many, many smaller waterfalls all across the region!
The Yellow House makes an ideal home base for those exploring the area in this magical season. Relax each night in a beautiful soaking tub or enjoy the sunset at the end of the day. Book one of our luxurious suites to make the most of your spring activities in Western North Carolina!