We'll be in Asheville the first week of November and would like to spend a day hiking. I realize the Blue Ridge Parkway is in the area, but I'm wondering about finding a hike to plan to do ahead of time (I like to plan!).

Are there any state parks or hiking trails you would suggest?

This is a short trip and we are going to driving to get there, so we don't want to drive too far (I realize Great Smokey Mountain National Park is in the area, but we'd prefer to stick to Asheville and the closer surrounding towns).

We are actually staying in Candler.

Thanks!!

Look up the Blue Ridge Parkway site and find a hiking point nearby.

I think we're going to go w/Chimney Rock - looks like they have good hikes and great views.

We went to Chimney Rock Park a few weeks ago and had a great time -- but be aware that one of the main trails is closed (for safety reasons). We hiked to the waterful, which is more of a water trickle. But it has beautiful views!

We also went to Grandfather Mountain (about an hour and a half from Asheville), and we'd definitely go back there. You can google it to get more information. We'd never heard of it until a couple of months ago.

Have fun!

Chimney Rock is a great hike. Prior to going watch "Last of the Mohicans", it is all filmed in that area. The last 1/2 hour is particularly incredible, once you see where the scenes actually took place.