Annual Tours and Events

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. READ MORE AND REGISTER HERE.

Saturday, March 2nd, 9:00am-5:00pm: Seven Sisters Peaks Hike
SOLD OUT

We will be hosting a strenuous hike across the expansive range of the Seven Sisters Peaks where hikers will learn more about the history, ecology, and geography of the range while enjoying panoramic views. READ MORE AND LEARN HOW TO REGISTER HERE.

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. READ MORE AND LEARN HOW TO REGISTER HERE

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. READ MORE AND REGISTER HERE

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. READ MORE AND REGISTER HERE

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. READ MORE AND REGISTER HERE.

Saturday, May 4, 9:00am-2:00pm: 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. READ MORE AND REGISTER HERE.

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! LEARN MORE AND REGISTER HERE.

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. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER HERE.

May 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. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER HERE.

May 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. LEARN MORE AND REGISTER HERE.

Saturday, September 28, 7:30am-6:30pm: Mt. Mitchell Old Toll Road 4WD Caravan

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. LEARN MORE AND LEARN HOW TO REGISTER HERE.

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. READ MORE AND LEARN HOW TO REGISTER HERE.