Each year, the museum hosts one-off hikes, tours and other events showcasing parts of the Swannanoa Valley. These events explore local history, lore and geography, often providing exclusive access to precious historic trails and long-lost communities far off the beaten path. Read on to learn more and register.
Cancellation Policy:
We understand that unexpected circumstances may arise. You may cancel your enrollment in the program for a full refund up to 48 hours before the program start date.
- Cancellations made 48 hours or more before the program start date will receive a full refund.
- Cancellations made less than 48 hours before the program start date will not be eligible for a refund.
- A full refund will be offered if the museum cancels the program due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.
Please Note:
- We strongly recommend notifying us of your cancellation in writing via email to swannanoavalleymuseum@gmail.com
- You will receive a confirmation email upon processing your cancellation request.
2025 Current Schedule
| Event | Time |
| Supper and a Story | Thursday, Mar 20th – 6:00 PM & 7:00 PM |
| Trails Less Traveled: Hike to Pisgah Inn Via Barnett Branch Falls and MTS | Saturday, March 29th at 9:00 am |
| March thru December: Walking Tours of Historic Downtown Black Mountain | Current Dates: Saturday April 26, May 31 |
| Haunted History Tours of Downtown Black Mountain | Current Dates: Friday April 18, May 23 |
| Trails Less Traveled: Three Peak Hike | Saturday, August 2nd, 9:00 AM- 5:00 PM |
2025 Upcoming Event Details & Registration
Thursday, March 20, 6:00pm & 7:00pm:
Supper and a Story
On the first day of Spring, history comes alive at a special gala dinner to benefit the Swannanoa Valley Museum hosted by Hell or High Water, Black Mountain’s newest restaurant. Enjoy a specially curated four course pre fixe dinner and hear the
story of Black Mountain from locals with strong ties to the past. Choose one of two seatings and mingle with newcomers and old friends of the Museum in community .
Saturday, March 29th at 9:00 am
Trails Less Traveled: Hike to Pisgah Inn Via Barnett Branch Falls and MTS
This 8.8-mile moderate to strenuous point to point hike with approximately 1900 feet of elevation gain will take us from Yellow Gap Road near Pink Beds to The Pisgah Inn. We will pass Barnett Branch Falls before taking the MTS for the rest of journey to the Inn. From the Inn, we will follow the Thompson Creek Trail down to Yellow Gap Road while passing the upper and lower Thompson Creek Falls. We will pre-drop vehicles, so we have transportation back to the start of the hike.
March thru December: Walking Tours of Historic Downtown Black Mountain
Learn the history of Black Mountain and the Swannanoa Valley on this walking tour! Museum staff will lead attendees through historic State Street, Cherry Street and Black Mountain Avenue, relaying the history of several buildings and discussing topics including the building of the Swannanoa Tunnel and the disastrous downtown fire of 1912.
April thru November: Haunted History Tours of Downtown Black Mountain
Traveling some of Black Mountain’s most storied streets, learn about the humorous, haunting and harrowing history of the Swannanoa Valley while being visited by some of its most famous spirits. These tours will highlight local tragedies and triumphs- and the many ghosts, friendly and frustrated, born from these events.
Saturday, August 2nd, 9:00 AM- 5:00 PM
Trails Less Traveled: Three Peak Hike
This 8.8-mile moderate to strenuous point to point hike with approximately 1900 feet of elevation gain will take us from Yellow Gap Road near Pink Beds to The Pisgah Inn. We will pass Barnett Branch Falls before taking the MTS for the rest of journey to the Inn. From the Inn, we will follow the Thompson Creek Trail down to Yellow Gap Road while passing the upper and lower Thompson Creek Falls.
Past 2024 Events
Saturday, August 17, 9:00am-6:00pm: Antique & Collectibles Sale
Join us for our second annual Antiques & Collectibles Sale at the Monte Vista Hotel!
Vendors, showcase your unique treasures, vintage finds, and one-of-a-kind antiques to a diverse audience in the charming setting of the historic Monte Vista Hotel. Patrons, explore an array of fascinating items and uncover hidden gems while supporting the museum’s mission to preserve and celebrate the rich history of the Swannanoa Valley. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow collectors, history enthusiasts, and the local community!
Friday, August 30, 7:00pm: Whitewater Bluegrass Company Concert, with White Horse Black Mountain
Join us for an unforgettable evening at the SVM Fundraiser on August 30th at White Horse Black Mountain, featuring the captivating Whitewater Bluegrass Company. For over 40 years, they’ve enchanted audiences with their unique blend of Bluegrass, country ballads, mountain swing, rockabilly, and down-home humor, celebrating mountain culture through music, song, and dance.
Friday, September 13, 6:00am OR 8:15am: Montreat to Mt. Mitchell Hike
Join us for an historic adventure on Friday, September 13th as we will have two groups hiking from Montreat to Mt. Mitchell on the same day! One group will be hiking 24-miles out and back, while the second group will be hiking 13-miles one-way.
Saturday, September 28, 7:30am-6:30pm: Mt. Mitchell Old Toll Road 4WD Caravan
SOLD OUT – WAITLIST AVAILABLE
Join us for a thrilling adventure on this highly sought-after 4-wheel drive caravan, traversing the historic Mt. Mitchell railroad bed and Old Toll Road. Along the way, indulge in stops that unveil breathtaking panoramic views, accompanied by captivating historical presentations that bring the past to life.
Saturday, November 2, 9:00am-2:30pm: Historic North Fork Valley Tour of the Asheville Watershed- West
Join us on this exclusive historic driving tour of the west side of the Burnett Reservoir to explore part of the once thriving North Fork Valley community. The caravan will stop for participants to view the impressive chimney that was once part of a large boarding house where travelers on their way to Mt. Mitchell would stay before they began the ascent to the highest peak in eastern North America.
Saturday, February 3rd, 9:00am: Cedar Rock Mountain Hike
Join us on our first Trails Less Traveled Hike to the spectacular views of Cedar Rock Mountain. Our route takes us by Cedar Rock Falls, Grogan Creek Falls, the Butter Gap Shelter, and the Davidson River.
Saturday, April 27th, 9:00am-2:30pm: Historic North Fork Valley Tour of the Asheville Watershed- East
THIS EVENT WAS RESCHEDULED FROM 3/23 TO 4/27.
Join us on this exclusive historic driving tour of the east side of the Burnett Reservoir to explore part of the once thriving North Fork Valley community.
Saturday, April 6th, 8:00am-3:30pm: Trails Less Traveled – Big Ivy
Embark on an 8.2-mile hike near Barnardsville through the “frontside of the Craggies,” boasting moderate to challenging terrain and a 1,973-foot elevation gain. Explore the childhood haunts of John Buckner in Big Ivy, where settlers grazed cattle and sheep. Discover the historic Flats of Craggy, a gathering spot for youths from Barnardsville and the North Fork.
Friday, April 19th, 9:00am-2:00pm: Spring Nature Ramble
Are you someone who appreciates the leisurely pace of meandering through the fields and woods, savoring the opportunity to pause and enjoy the beauty around you? If so, this hike is tailor-made for your preferences. Whether you’re a newcomer to the region or a lifelong resident, seize this exceptional chance to delve deeper into the fascinating world of flora and fauna in this extraordinary, well-preserved haven of wilderness.
Led by the deeply skilled and experienced naturalist Nora Murdock, we will explore the rarely-visited private Hemphill Estate in Black Mountain for a day of discovery and exploration.
Monday, May 6th, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm: Wildflower Hike
This spring, head outside and learn to identify both common and rare Appalachian wildflowers. Led by Joe and Mary Standaert, local historians and members of the Western Carolina Botanical Club, this hike will take a short, leisurely walk in our diverse woodlands.
Thursday, May 23, 7:00pm-9:00pm: Swannanoa Valley Musical Heritage Concert
Embark on a musical journey with the Swannanoa Valley Museum as we delve into the captivating history of the valley through enchanting songs and captivating stories!
Friday, May 24, 6:00pm-8:00pm: Film Screening & Discussion: The Mystery of George Masa, with Angelyn Whitmeyer
Join us for a screening of The Mystery of George Masa, followed by a discussion with Angelyn Whitmeyer, founder of the George Masa Photograph Database.
Saturday, June 1, 8:30am-3:30pm: Patton Mountain House Hike
Explore the remnants of Patton Mountain House in the secluded Asheville Watershed with exclusive access from the museum. Follow the original path of early adventurers ascending Mt. Mitchell via the Old Mitchell Trail. Venture into Asheville’s restricted property along the “uncleared” segment of the trail to reach the striking ruins.
Saturday, June 22, 10:00am: Chestnut Ridge Hike
Join us for a unique 4-mile loop hike on the preserved Fortune Fields property, once owned by Arthur Joe and Mary Hemphill. Currently under a life estate by Rick and Melinda Halford, the land is protected by a conservation easement, offering a historical and scenic experience. Highlights include a bear tree, Carolina Hemlocks, and the Catawba River’s headwaters at Hungry Gap.
Saturday, July 27, 8:00am-2:00pm: SVM Community Yard Sale
Join us for a fun-filled day at the Swannanoa Valley Museum’s Community Yard Sale! This event is the perfect opportunity to discover hidden treasures, find great deals, and connect with your neighbors.
Have items to sell? Reserve a spot and turn your clutter into cash while supporting the Swannanoa Valley Museum!
Saturday, August 3, 9:00am: Bucket List Hike: Three Peaks – Black Balsam, Tennant Mountain, and Sam Knob
Join us for an adventurous day bagging three of North Carolina’s 6,000-foot peaks! Starting at Black Balsam Trailhead, this challenging 8-mile hike with a 1,400-foot elevation gain will lead us over Black Balsam, Tennant Mountain, and Sam Knob—all in one day. It’s a unique opportunity to conquer these peaks in a single outing, timed perfectly during blueberry season for a tasty trailside treat.