Nestled in the heart of the Southern Appalachian Mountains just south of Asheville, North Carolina, the North Carolina Arboretum spans 434 acres within the
Bent Creek Experimental Forest in the
Pisgah Ranger District of
Pisgah National Forest. Established in 1986 by the state legislature as a facility of the University of North Carolina and officially designated in 1989, this stunning public garden traces its conceptual roots back to landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted's vision for the nearby Biltmore Estate in 1898. Visitors can explore 65 acres of meticulously cultivated gardens, including the renowned Bonsai Exhibition Garden, the Blue Ridge Quilt Garden, a Heritage Garden showcasing plants tied to traditional Appalachian crafts, and vibrant perennial borders. Miles of scenic hiking and biking trails wind through lush forested areas, while seasonal exhibits, educational programs, and family-friendly activities highlight the region's rich botanical diversity and cultural heritage, making it a serene oasis for nature lovers year-round.
Contact Information:
100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way
Asheville, NC 28806-9315
Phone (828) 665-2492
Map:
Trails:
Carolina Mountain Trail
Carolina Mountain Trail starts behind the Education Center and descends past the greenhouse to end at Bent Creek Road.
Creekside Trail
Creekside Trail runs parallel to Bend Creek Road following the creek closely.
Points of Interest:
Bonsai Exhibition Garden
Trolls
Twelve trolls constructed by Danish artist Thomas Dambo as part of Trolls: A Field Study were on the grounds of the arboretum in winter 2025/2026.
Willow Pond
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