North Carolina's Less-Crowded Park Near Asheville Has Woodland Nature Walks And Scenic Picnic Spots

When travelers think of a North Carolina mountain escape with outdoor fun, the first thing that comes to mind is often Asheville. The eclectic city sits against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which draw visitors to its miles of trails to explore and scenic overlooks along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway. However, travelers don't necessarily have to go to the region's most popular — and crowded — hotspots to have a few hours surrounded by nature. In fact, just south of Asheville is a destination that offers an undoubtedly quieter experience: Collier Cove Nature Preserve.

Collier Cove Nature Preserve is located in Arden, North Carolina, just over 20 minutes from downtown Asheville. The preserve is only about 29 acres, but visitors say that's part of why they like it so much. One Google reviewer wrote, "This is a lovely little preserve if you need a quick nature hit and don't have time for a whole trip to Pisgah..." Take the afternoon to explore the trails in this compact nature preserve. Pack a few snacks, too, and turn your post-hike break into an impromptu picnic.

Collier Cove Nature Preserve's trail system covers almost 2 miles, weaving through thick vegetation that made one visitor feel far "removed from civilization." Choose from five routes, which, according to its official trail map (pdf), include: The 0.6-mile Walnut Way, 0.5-mile Sassafras Circle, 0.4-mile Trillium Trail, 0.35-mile Laurel Loop, and 0.2-mile Hickory Hike. As they connect, you can mix and match for a personalized hike based on your skill level.

The trails may not be among the longest in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains region, but Buncombe County Recreation Services describes them as "steep and strenuous." Visitors agree. One Google reviewer wrote, "Lovely hiking- steep, strenuous but short distance." They also noted that the preserve's meadow is "lovely for a picnic." It's a small, sunlit clearing surrounded by trees where you can spread out a blanket or sit on one of several benches while taking in the Butler Mountain scenery. Then, on the way back to the trailhead, take your time basking in the beauty of wildflowers across the Blue Ridge landscape. Another past visitor on Google called the flora "the biggest payoff," adding that Laurel Loop is especially pretty when everything is in bloom. 

Before heading out for your hike, know that Collier Cove Nature Preserve is only open during daylight hours. Additionally, if a trail is blocked off, turn back, as Buncombe County says, "Some trails are closed due to landslides." With changing trail conditions, it's also a good idea to follow a few basic hiking safety tips during your adventure.