For lovers of the great outdoors, the words “Blue Ridge Mountains” will conjure up images of heartmelting terrain bathed in that distinctive, hazy indigo hue. Part of the Appalachian range and a bucket-list destination for hikers from all around the world, the ancient Blue Ridge Mountains can trace their history back over the course of one billion years.
Formed in the deep and distant past through the uplifting of Earth’s tectonic plates, the peaks here were once the highest mountains in the world. Nestled amongst this grand old geological marvel, just north of the North Carolina city of Asheville, sits the Bailey Mountain Preserve. Boasting some amazing trails, great opportunities for birdwatching, and lovely spots to appreciate a wide range of biodiversity, this soul-soothing slice of nature needs to be on your radar. Time to dust off the walking boots again? You bet.
The nearest airport to the Bailey Mountain Preserve is Asheville Regional Airport, located about 33 miles away by car. For international flights, Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport in South Carolina is a roughly 84-mile drive away. However you decide to access this verdant gem on the edge of Mars Hill, be sure to make it a part of your plans for a summer road trip in North Carolina.
Hiking in Bailey Mountain Preserve
If you’re heading to Bailey Mountain Preserve and want to stretch your legs through a gorgeous stretch of green, one option is the 4.4-mile summit hike known as the Richard L Hoffman Trail, which should be at the top of your to-do list. Offering up 1,175 feet of elevation gain and some dreamy views to go alongside it, this path is an out-and-back trail that normally takes visitors around three hours to complete…