TOP 10 Outdoor learning in Asheville, North Carolina

Pisgah Collective is a unique school located in the scenic town of Pisgah Forest, North Carolina. Our outdoor inspired early childhood education program is designed to foster a love for nature and learning in young children. Our campus is surrounded by the beauty of the Pisgah National Forest, providing endless opportunities for exploration and hands-on learning experiences. At Pisgah Collective, we believe in the power of outdoor education to stimulate creativity, curiosity, and a deep connection to the natural world. Join us at 2753 Asheville Highway and let your child's education take root in the great outdoors.

The UNC Asheville Outdoor Geology Exhibit is a fascinating display of the geological history of the Asheville area, located on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Asheville. Visitors can explore a variety of rock formations, fossils, and minerals that highlight the unique geology of the region. The exhibit offers a hands-on learning experience for students and visitors alike, with interactive displays and informative signage explaining the geological processes that have shaped the landscape over millions of years. Whether you are a geology enthusiast or just curious about the earth's history, the UNC Asheville Outdoor Geology Exhibit is a must-see destination in Asheville, North Carolina.

The Western North Carolina Nature Center, located at 75 Gashes Creek Road in Asheville, North Carolina, is a popular tourist attraction and zoo. Visitors can see a variety of animals such as black bears, red wolves, otters, and red pandas. The Nature Center is open 361 days a year, with admissions from 10am-3:30pm and the park closing at 4:30pm. Military personnel receive free admission with ID, and Asheville City residents receive discounted admission. The Nature Center is supported by the City of Asheville’s Parks & Recreation Department. Visitors can become a Friend of the WNC Nature Center to enjoy savings and benefits as a member. Corporate Friends and Partners help support the Nature Center’s animal habitats, education programs, and conservation efforts. Reservations are not required, and tickets do not need to be purchased online in advance. Come visit the WNC Nature Center to learn more about the special animals that call it home and help keep Asheville wild!

Tile-It Inc. is a reputable general contractor based in Asheville, North Carolina, United States. With a strong focus on quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, our team of experienced professionals specializes in tile installation for residential and commercial projects. Whether you're looking to renovate your kitchen, bathroom, or outdoor space, Tile-It Inc. has the expertise and resources to bring your vision to life. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation.

Aston Park is a vibrant institution located at 336 Hilliard Avenue in Asheville, North Carolina. As part of Asheville Parks & Recreation, Aston Park offers a wide range of programs and events for the community to explore, connect, and discover. The institution is actively involved in shaping the city's parks and recreation programs through the Recreate Asheville initiative, which aims to serve all Ashevillians. With a legacy dating back to the 1890s, Aston Park manages over 75 public parks, playgrounds, and open spaces in Asheville. The institution also oversees full-complex recreation centers, swimming pools, sports fields, and community centers that offer wellness, education, and culture-related programs for individuals of all ages. Additionally, Aston Park features 10 miles of paved greenways and natural surface trails, providing a hub for residents to connect with nature and their community.

Stephens-Lee Community Center is a vibrant institution located at 30 George Washington Carver Avenue in Asheville, North Carolina. This community center is part of the Asheville Parks & Recreation department, offering a wide range of programs and events for all ages throughout the year. Asheville Parks & Recreation provides a variety of recreational programs and services for the community, with a focus on meeting the needs of Ashevillians. The community center is a hub for wellness, education, and cultural activities, with programs designed to cater to residents of all ages.

Azalea Park is a beautiful tourist attraction located at 498 Azalea Road East in Asheville, North Carolina, United States. This park is managed by Asheville Parks & Recreation, offering a variety of programs and events for the community to explore, connect, and discover. With over 75 public parks, playgrounds, and open spaces, as well as recreation centers and swimming pools, Azalea Park provides a vibrant hub for Ashevillians of all ages to enjoy wellness, education, and culture-related programs. The park system includes 10 miles of paved greenways and natural surface trails, allowing visitors to connect with their neighbors and explore the natural beauty of the city. Asheville Parks & Recreation is committed to providing opportunities for all residents to be supported, healthy, and successful. The department offers a wide range of programming for children, teens, and adults, including sports leagues, youth athletics programs, and scholarships for youth and teen programs. Visitors can also explore an interactive map of Asheville's greenways, learn about public pools and Splasheville, and reserve shelters for events.

FernLeaf Community Charter School - Wilderness Campus offers education for students in 5th through 12th grades and is located at 249 Old Hendersonville Road in Fletcher, North Carolina. Our school is a public charter school situated in the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina, conveniently between Asheville and Hendersonville. At FernLeaf, we provide high quality academic instruction through a combination of Experiential Education, Project Based Learning, and traditional teaching methods. Our goal is to encourage students to be inquisitive and develop into thoughtful, compassionate, and engaged members of their community.

Holistic Survival School (HoSS) is located at 38 State Road 2116 in Weaverville, North Carolina, United States. At HoSS, we believe in connecting deeply with the natural world, ourselves, and our fellow humans. It is our mission to help individuals establish physical, emotional, and spiritual connections to their local landscape, as we believe it is their birthright. With love and compassion, we meet our students wherever they are in life and teach them hands-on, heart-centered, Earth-based skills such as foraging, pottery, fire making, hide-tanning, and more. Our goal is to empower individuals to lead fulfilling, balanced, and healthy lives rooted in nature.

Wild Abundance is a unique school located near Asheville, NC, offering classes in Carpentry, Earthskills, and Permaculture. Our campus is a permaculture oasis nestled in the ancient mountains of North Carolina. We provide hands-on learning experiences that empower individuals and promote community resilience. Our classes cover subjects that have been essential to human culture for millennia, taught in a way that is relevant to the present. With a focus on personal empowerment and sustainable living, Wild Abundance is a place where students can gain competence and confidence while connecting with the natural world. Our outdoor classrooms provide a safe learning environment, even during inclement weather. Whether you choose to join us in person or online, you will be part of a supportive community dedicated to living in harmony with the earth. Take a class with us and embark on a journey of self-discovery and skill-building that will last a lifetime.

French Broad River Academy - South Campus is an independent middle school located at 1420 Riverside Drive in Asheville, North Carolina, United States. Our school offers a unique dual riverfront program for boys and girls in grades 6-8. We blend rigorous academics with outdoor adventure, service projects, and international travel to help our students grow into confident, compassionate leaders who are ready to make a positive impact on the world. The FBRA experience shapes young people who are mature, respectful, and grounded, with strong leadership skills and a sense of integrity. Our students thrive in public speaking, leadership roles, and collaborative work, displaying awareness and a readiness to contribute to their communities. Recognized as one of the top outdoor education programs in the South by Blue Ridge Outdoors, we provide a hands-on learning experience that combines academic excellence with outdoor activities like whitewater rafting, snowboarding, and cave exploration.

Forest Floor Wilderness Programs is a nature-based institution located at 315 Old Haw Creek Road in Asheville, North Carolina, United States. Our programs are designed to reconnect individuals with the natural world through immersive experiences in the wilderness. From guided hikes and nature walks to survival skills training and outdoor education, our expert instructors provide hands-on learning opportunities that foster a deep appreciation for the environment. Whether you are looking to develop outdoor skills, build confidence in the wilderness, or simply escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Forest Floor Wilderness Programs offers a unique and enriching experience for all ages. Join us and discover the beauty and serenity of the great outdoors.

French Broad River Academy - North Campus is an independent middle school located at 1990 Riverside Drive in Asheville, North Carolina, United States. Our school offers a unique dual riverfront program for boys and girls in grades 6-8. We combine rigorous academics with outdoor adventure, service projects, and international travel to help our students become confident, compassionate leaders. The result of the FBRA experience is young people who are mature, respectful, and ready to take on the world. Our school has been recognized for our exceptional outdoor education programs, providing students with hands-on learning experiences that integrate academics with real-world activities such as whitewater rafting, snowboarding, and cave exploration. Our dedicated faculty not only teach academics but also serve as mentors in life, helping students develop determination, grit, and self-value.

Lenoir-Rhyne University is a prestigious university located in Asheville, North Carolina. With a rich history dating back to 1891, Lenoir-Rhyne University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields of study. The university is known for its small class sizes, personalized attention from faculty, and strong sense of community. Students at Lenoir-Rhyne University have access to state-of-the-art facilities, a vibrant campus life, and numerous opportunities for research and experiential learning. Located in the beautiful city of Asheville, students can enjoy a diverse range of cultural and outdoor activities while pursuing their academic goals.

Located at 400 Wellness Way in Asheville, North Carolina, the Student Recreation Center at UNC Asheville is the go-to spot for all things fitness and recreation on campus. Our mission is to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for students, faculty, and staff to explore, move, play, and thrive. Whether you're looking to break a sweat in a fitness class, hit the gym or basketball courts, take a dip in the pool, or join an intramural sports league, Campus Recreation has something for everyone. Our facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and offer a variety of programs and activities to keep you active and engaged.

Foundation Skatepark is a premier skateboarding facility located on Foundy Street in Asheville, North Carolina. This state-of-the-art skatepark offers a variety of ramps, rails, and bowls for skaters of all skill levels to enjoy. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced skater looking to hone your skills, Foundation Skatepark has something for everyone. With a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, this skatepark is the perfect place to hang out with friends and practice your tricks. Come visit Foundation Skatepark and experience the thrill of skateboarding in a safe and fun environment.

Hood Huggers International is a community-focused park located at 21 Mardell Circle in Asheville, North Carolina, United States. This institution serves as a gathering place for residents and visitors to come together and enjoy outdoor activities, events, and programs that celebrate the rich culture and history of the neighborhood. With a mission to empower and uplift the community, Hood Huggers International offers a safe and welcoming space for all to enjoy nature, connect with others, and learn about the importance of unity and diversity. Whether you're looking to relax in the beautiful surroundings or participate in educational workshops, this park is dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging and pride in the local community.

Located at 285 Livingston Street in Asheville, North Carolina, the Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center is a hub for recreation and community engagement. Part of the Asheville Parks & Recreation department, the center offers a variety of programs and events for all ages throughout the year. With a history dating back to the 1890s, Asheville Parks & Recreation manages over 75 public parks, playgrounds, and open spaces in the city. In addition to traditional recreational facilities, the department also oversees 10 miles of paved greenways and natural surface trails, providing opportunities for residents to connect with nature and stay active.

Carrier Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 220 Amboy Road in Asheville, North Carolina. Managed by Asheville Parks & Recreation, this park offers a wide range of programs and events for the community to explore, connect, and discover. With over 75 public parks, playgrounds, and open spaces, as well as full-complex recreation centers, swimming pools, sports fields, and community centers, Asheville Parks & Recreation provides wellness, education, and culture-related programs for residents of all ages. The park also features 10 miles of paved greenways and natural surface trails, making it a vibrant hub for people to connect with their neighbors and enjoy the natural beauty of the city. Asheville Parks & Recreation is committed to providing opportunities for all residents to be supported, healthy, and successful. The department offers a variety of programming for children, teens, and adults, including camps, activities, sports leagues, and athletics programs. Scholarships through the SOAR program may be available for youth and teen programs.

Richmond Hill Park, located at 300 Richmond Hill Drive in Asheville, North Carolina, is a popular tourist attraction and recreational hub managed by Asheville Parks & Recreation. With over 75 public parks, playgrounds, and open spaces, the park offers a variety of activities and programs for residents and visitors of all ages. Asheville Parks & Recreation provides a diverse range of programs and events to help the community explore, connect, and discover. From recreational activities and sports leagues to educational and cultural programs, the park aims to create a vibrant and inclusive environment for Ashevillians.

Located at 1 University Heights in Asheville, North Carolina, the Carol Belk Theatre is a hub of exploration and innovation at UNC Asheville. This institution is at the forefront of undergraduate research and hands-on learning, encouraging students to constantly ask "What's next?" With over 90 academic programs, including popular majors like psychology, English, business, and environmental studies, as well as unique areas of study such as new media and mechatronics, students have a diverse range of opportunities to pursue their passions. The faculty at UNC Asheville are dedicated to fostering growth and guiding students towards extraordinary experiences, whether it's developing treatments for antibiotic-resistant bacteria or installing their first art exhibition. The university believes in the transformative power of learning and aims to make a positive impact on the community through research and teaching.

The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) is a hub for faculty and administrators to come together, connect, learn, share, and support each other. Located at 1 North Pack Square in Asheville, North Carolina, United States, TABS is the go-to resource for those exploring a boarding school education. With over 225 member schools featured on BoardingSchools.com, individuals can find detailed profiles to help in their decision-making process. TABS recently celebrated the 2023 Ruzicka Leadership Award Honorees and Kaleidoscope Award Recipients, showcasing excellence in leadership within the boarding school community. The institution also welcomes suggestions for member-wide surveys, allowing schools to learn from one another and stay informed on industry trends.

Looking Glass Realty at Hendersonville is a premier real estate agency located in the heart of downtown Hendersonville, North Carolina. Our team of experienced real estate agents specializes in helping clients find the perfect property in this charming mountain-valley town. Whether you are looking for a cozy mountain cabin, a modern townhome, or a luxurious ranch property, Hendersonville has something to offer everyone. With easy access to nearby metropolitan areas such as Asheville, Greenville, and Spartanburg, Hendersonville is the ideal location for those seeking a balance between tranquility and culture. The town is surrounded by the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and fly fishing.