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Trek Travel Asheville to Highlands North Carolina Bike Tour
Dine at Rhubarb restaurant on our Asheville to Highlands bike tour
Trek Travel Asheville Cycling Vacation
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Ride the Blue Ridge Parkway on Trek Travel's Asheville, North Carolina Bike Tour
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Asheville Self Guided - Blue Ridge Mountains - Canva Asheville2020.BobJoy-18 - 1600x670 Asheville Self Guided - Canva 2 Trek Travel Asheville to Highlands North Carolina Bike Tour Dine at Rhubarb restaurant on our Asheville to Highlands bike tour Trek Travel Asheville Cycling Vacation Asheville2020.BobJoy-0O4A0787-Pano - 1600x670 Ride the Blue Ridge Parkway on Trek Travel's Asheville, North Carolina Bike Tour Asheville2020.BobJoy-3 - 1600x670
TRIP STYLE: Self-Guided
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  6. Asheville Self-Guided Bike Tour

Asheville Self-Guided Bike Tour

The Blue Ridge Parkway and the Southern Appalachians

In the mountains of western North Carolina, you will find the highest peak east of the Mississippi, ancient rivers, breathtaking views, waterfalls, and incredibly scenic roads. On our Asheville self-guided bike tour, ride the Blue Ridge Parkway and take in views of the Craggy, Balsam, and the Black Mountains rising in blue waves to the edge of the horizon. There is a strong sense of history and place here that can be heard in old-time bluegrass music and tasted in treasured recipes. This beautiful outdoor playground is yours to discover at your own pace with plenty time to visit some of the many craft breweries and upscale restaurants that Asheville is known for, as well as time to pursue other outdoor activities that the region offers. So kick back and take in the eclectic vibe of this great region, enjoy great hand-selected cycling routes and a fantastic downtown hotel on this self-guided bicycling vacation that you can make your very own! Book your trip with confidence » Learn if a self-guided trip is right for you »
Asheville Self-Guided Bike Tour
From:
$1999 Per Person
Duration:
4 Days & 3 Nights
Rider Level: ?
3 - Active Non-riders Welcome
Trip Style: ?
Self-Guided
Hotel Level: ?
Explorer
From $1999 per person View All Details
Close Details
Trip Wows
Relax at The Foundry, a stylish boutique hotel in a restored steel foundry in one of downtown's historic neighborhoods
Ride fantastic routes that take you through pastoral landscapes, some of Asheville's most beautiful and historic neighborhoods, and along the ancient French Broad River
Take in stunning views of the southern Appalachians from a number of viewpoints along the world famous Blue Ridge Parkway
Sample the wares at some of Asheville's famous South Slope breweries, located within walking distance of your hotel
Treat yourself to the inventive, Southern-inspired dishes born from Asheville's robust farm-to-table culinary scene at some of the many upscale restaurants located downtown
Watch the Experience
Asheville Self-Guided Bike Tour
A very well-conceived trip with fun routes, excellent food, and interesting side tours. We felt Trek was fully behind us whilst enjoying the freedom of self-guidance. And the Trek bikes inspired confidence!
-John, Trek Travel Guest

Dates & Prices

The Earlier You Book, The Greater The Rewards

We reward our guests with lower pricing and more dates to choose from the earlier you book. Rest assured, once you book, your price and date are guaranteed.
Guaranteed 
to run
?
Sold Out/
Waitlist
?
Private/
Reserved
?
Limited 
Availability
?
Single Occupancy from: +$499
?
May 20 – May 23 
$1999 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
May 27 – May 30 
$1999 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
Jun 3 – Jun 6 
$1999 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
Jun 10 – Jun 13 
$1999 / Person, Double Occupancy Book this date
Don't see your ideal travel date? 
Call us at (866) 464-8735 for custom date availability
Looking for a one of a kind, once in a lifetime experience?
Look no further. Choose your trip date, get your group together and we will do the rest. Private trip pricing is as follows:

  • 10+ Guests Price as advertised*
  • 8-9 Guests +$750 per person to trip price*
  • 6-7 Guests +$1,500 per person to trip price*
  • 4-5 Guests +$2,000 per person to trip price*
  • 2-3 Guests +$3,000 per person to trip price*
  • 1 Guest        Call us for pricing*


Traveling with a small group? Consider semi-private trips.
For groups of up to six people, semi-private trips offer unique flexibility within a larger Trek Travel guided trip. Learn more »

*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Private pricing is not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
Book a Private Trip
Looking for a date that you don’t see?
Look no further. Simply tell us your preferred travel dates and we’ll work together to deliver the same great trip on your custom schedule.
*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Custom dates are not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
Customize my trip dates
Want to customize this trip?
We've got you covered. We’ll work with you to build your perfect vacation from scratch, including your choice of riding, accommodations and dining options. With the help of our trip designers and travel experts, the world is available like never before.
*Pricing, availability and guest minimums are all subject to change at any time. Certain dates have a minimum number of guests required, please contact us for details. Custom trips are not available on Ride Camp, Race, Special Edition or Cross Country style trips.
Book a Custom Trip

Day To Day

See Dates & Pricing Download PDF Download PDF

Your Trek Travel host will meet you at The Foundry Hotel at 11:00 AM. Come dressed to ride as you can leave your bags at the front desk and head out for your first day of cycling. Kick off your self-guided tour cycling out of downtown Asheville making your way through the lush green trees of the Biltmore Forest neighborhood. As you cycle out of downtown your ride follows the Scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, looping around the city. Your ride will end with a stunning descent back to downtown Asheville, your home for the next three nights. Take some time to settle in then enjoy dinner at one of the many exciting restaurants within a short walk of your hotel.

Today's Ride:

Asheville Biltmore Forest Loop
Approximately 30 mi | 48 km and 2,290 ft | 697 m

Hotel:

The Foundry Hotel

Included Meals:

N/A

This morning, enjoy a delicious breakfast of Appalachian-inspired soul food at Benne on Eagle before heading out on a ride through the community of Leicester, located to the northwest of Asheville. This ride offers short climbs through rolling hills and beautiful farmland. Those who want to add more to their day can choose the extended loop to tack on 11 more miles and about 1,100 feet more climbing. After the morning ride, grab lunch at one of the downtown cafes then take some time to engage in one of the many off-the-bike experiences available in this engaging town. Visit the Biltmore Estate, take a historic trolley tour, visit the Sauna House or the historic Grove Park Inn, take a whitewater rafting trip or go for a hike (cost and transportation to and from these activities is not included in the price of your trip). Afterward enjoy dinner of your choice at one of the many fantastic recommended eateries.

Today's Ride:

Leicester Loop
Approximately 32 mi | 51 km and 2,360 ft | 719 m

Avid Option:

Leicester Extended Loop
Approximately 43 mi | 69 km and 3,450 ft | 1,051 m

Hotel:

The Foundry Hotel

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Amazing riding awaits you today on the famed Blue Ridge Parkway. The route begins on the many switchbacks of Town Mountain as you climb out of town and drop onto the Parkway at Craven Gap. From here, it's either a four or 13-mile climb on mostly gentle grades, punctuated by panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, as you make your way to either the Lane Pinnacle Overlook or the Craggy Gardens area. In late May and early June, the Catawba rhododendron that covers the pinnacles show off their stunning pink and purple blooms. In the early fall, the foliage begins its colorful display at this elevation of about 5,500 feet. After descending back to town (as you guessed, it's mostly downhill!), take some time to explore more of Asheville. You may choose to browse the offerings of the many unique shops, galleries, and the vibrant street scene that Asheville is known for. Or you may opt to experience some of the South Slope breweries located within easy walking distance of the hotel. Whatever your day holds, you are on your own for dinner this evening, with the impressive array of downtown options just a short walk away.

Today's Ride:

Craggy Pinnacle Return
Approximately 44 mi | 70 km and 4,690 ft | 1,429 m

Short Option:

Lane Pinnacle Return
Approximately 28 mi | 45 km and 2,970 ft | 905 m

Hotel:

The Foundry Hotel

Included Meals:

Breakfast

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, spin out past the historic Grove Park Inn to tackle a local’s favorite climb up Elk Mountain. This five-mile climb, which varies in grade but finishes with a lung-busting pitch that reaches 12%, showcases great views into the Reems Creek and Beaverdam Valleys. Take a moment to check out the view from Buzzard Rock at the top—you earned it! After a few quick final miles on the Blue Ridge Parkway, your ride finishes with a fun descent down Town Mountain Road into downtown Asheville. Alternatively take this morning to sleep in and grab a coffee at one of the many locally owned coffee shops downtown or pick up some last minute gifts before checkout.

Today's Ride:

Elk Mountain Local's Loop
Approximately 20 mi | 32 km and 2,320 ft | 707 m

Hotel:

The Foundry Hotel

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Your Trek Travel host will meet you at The Foundry Hotel at 11:00 AM. Come dressed to ride as you can leave your bags at the front desk and head out for your first day of cycling. Kick off your self-guided tour cycling out of downtown Asheville making your way through the lush green trees of the Biltmore Forest neighborhood. As you cycle out of downtown your ride follows the Scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, looping around the city. Your ride will end with a stunning descent back to downtown Asheville, your home for the next three nights. Take some time to settle in then enjoy dinner at one of the many exciting restaurants within a short walk of your hotel.

Today's Ride:

Asheville Biltmore Forest Loop
Approximately 30 mi | 48 km and 2,290 ft | 697 m

Hotel:

The Foundry Hotel

Included Meals:

N/A

This morning, enjoy a delicious breakfast of Appalachian-inspired soul food at Benne on Eagle before heading out on a ride through the community of Leicester, located to the northwest of Asheville. This ride offers short climbs through rolling hills and beautiful farmland. Those who want to add more to their day can choose the extended loop to tack on 11 more miles and about 1,100 feet more climbing. After the morning ride, grab lunch at one of the downtown cafes then take some time to engage in one of the many off-the-bike experiences available in this engaging town. Visit the Biltmore Estate, take a historic trolley tour, visit the Sauna House or the historic Grove Park Inn, take a whitewater rafting trip or go for a hike (cost and transportation to and from these activities is not included in the price of your trip). Afterward enjoy dinner of your choice at one of the many fantastic recommended eateries.

Today's Ride:

Leicester Loop
Approximately 32 mi | 51 km and 2,360 ft | 719 m

Avid Option:

Leicester Extended Loop
Approximately 43 mi | 69 km and 3,450 ft | 1,051 m

Hotel:

The Foundry Hotel

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Amazing riding awaits you today on the famed Blue Ridge Parkway. The route begins on the many switchbacks of Town Mountain as you climb out of town and drop onto the Parkway at Craven Gap. From here, it's either a four or 13-mile climb on mostly gentle grades, punctuated by panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, as you make your way to either the Lane Pinnacle Overlook or the Craggy Gardens area. In late May and early June, the Catawba rhododendron that covers the pinnacles show off their stunning pink and purple blooms. In the early fall, the foliage begins its colorful display at this elevation of about 5,500 feet. After descending back to town (as you guessed, it's mostly downhill!), take some time to explore more of Asheville. You may choose to browse the offerings of the many unique shops, galleries, and the vibrant street scene that Asheville is known for. Or you may opt to experience some of the South Slope breweries located within easy walking distance of the hotel. Whatever your day holds, you are on your own for dinner this evening, with the impressive array of downtown options just a short walk away.

Today's Ride:

Craggy Pinnacle Return
Approximately 44 mi | 70 km and 4,690 ft | 1,429 m

Short Option:

Lane Pinnacle Return
Approximately 28 mi | 45 km and 2,970 ft | 905 m

Hotel:

The Foundry Hotel

Included Meals:

Breakfast

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, spin out past the historic Grove Park Inn to tackle a local’s favorite climb up Elk Mountain. This five-mile climb, which varies in grade but finishes with a lung-busting pitch that reaches 12%, showcases great views into the Reems Creek and Beaverdam Valleys. Take a moment to check out the view from Buzzard Rock at the top—you earned it! After a few quick final miles on the Blue Ridge Parkway, your ride finishes with a fun descent down Town Mountain Road into downtown Asheville. Alternatively take this morning to sleep in and grab a coffee at one of the many locally owned coffee shops downtown or pick up some last minute gifts before checkout.

Today's Ride:

Elk Mountain Local's Loop
Approximately 20 mi | 32 km and 2,320 ft | 707 m

Hotel:

The Foundry Hotel

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Hotels

hotel image

The Foundry Hotel

Asheville, North Carolina

Explorer Accommodation | Situated in the historic community known as "The Block," just a five-minute walk from downtown Asheville, The Foundry Hotel is a truly unique boutique hotel. The property is a restoration of one of the cities' earliest steel foundries. It is comprised of three original buildings and two newly constructed ones that seamlessly blend modern luxury with the everlasting charm of the original structures. Recently added to the U.S. National Registry of Historic Places, The Foundry features an enclave-like campus with a central courtyard that offers a peaceful space just steps from the heart of all that Asheville has to offer. The onsite restaurant, Benne on Eagle, is led by Chefs John Fleer and Malcolm McMillian, and the Workshop Lounge (housed in the former workshop of the steel foundry) is a luxurious and spacious place to relax with a craft cocktail.
www.foundryasheville.com

What's Included

For us, the details matter most

Every moment of a Trek Travel self-guided bike trip has more than you could have ever dreamed. More experiences. More scenery. More choice. It's the little additions to every Trek Travel cycling vacation that make it truly special. And that's how we help you create more memories.

bike

Trek Emonda SL 5 Disc

The Trek Emonda SL 5 Disc is the perfect bike for your self-guided trip. Its lightweight aerodynamic frame will have you cruising with ease throughout your day. The Shimano hydraulic brakes give you consistent stopping power and control in any weather. The Emonda SL 5 is equipped with Shimano 105 components, the workhorse group of Shimano's lineup that will keep your focus on enjoying the hills with its buttery smooth shifting. We think you'll like this bike so much, you'll want to get one of your own! Learn More

bike

Trek Electric Assist Verve+ 3

This comfortable bike is perfectly designed to give you that little boost you want. The front suspension will take the edge off any bumps in the road and the Bosch system will keep you smiling from ear to ear. The integrated battery keeps this bike looking sleek as you pedal through amazing terrain. Learn More

bike

Trek Electric Assist Verve+ 3 Low-Step

With its Low-Step frame design, hopping on and off the Trek Verve+ 3 is super easy. The front suspension will take the edge off any bumps in the road and the Bosch system will keep you smiling from ear to ear. The integrated battery keeps this bike looking sleek as you pedal through amazing terrain. Learn More

View all our bikes & gear

WHAT'S INCLUDED

  • Three nights of accommodation at a handpicked hotel
  • Daily breakfast
  • Daily lunch and dinner recommendations
  • Trek Emonda SL 5 disc road bike, Trek Electric-Assist Verve+3 or Trek Electric-Assist Verve+3 Lowstep
  • Up to three daily route options on riding days
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Each bike is equipped with a Garmin GPS computer, a flat pack containing one tube, two tire levers, CO2 cartridge with inflator, and a patch kit (the flat pack is only large enough for these items so if additional gear is needed, please plan to bring your own bar bag or small backpack for daily rides)
  • A mini frame pump, front and rear lights
  • Bontrager helmet (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • Bontrager saddle (we suggest you bring your own for the most comfortable fit)
  • Shimano clipless pedals or flat pedals (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • A bike lock, all necessary chargers and a floor pump
  • Bike fit on the first day to help you find your optimal riding position
  • Ride With GPS Experience on your phone to get all the information you need on your self-guided adventure

GEAR

  • Trek Emonda SL 5 disc road bike, Trek Electric-Assist Verve+3 or Trek Electric-Assist Verve+3 Lowstep, available in a limited quantity
  • Garmin GPS computer with mount
  • Trek Travel water bottles to keep
  • Shimano clipless road pedals, Shimano clipless mountain pedals, or flat pedals (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • Bontrager helmet (optional if you do not bring your own)
  • Bontrager men's and women's specific saddles
  • Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
  • Each bike is equipped with a flat pack containing one tube, two tire levers, CO2 cartridge with inflator, and a patch kit (the flat pack is only large enough for these items so if additional gear is needed, please plan to bring your own bar bag or small backpack for daily rides)
  • A mini frame pump
  • A bike lock, all necessary chargers, and a floor pump
  • Coupon valued up to $500 off a new Trek Bicycle. Your coupon will be delivered via email prior to your trip.
  • For the most comfortable ride, you may choose to bring your own pedals, saddle, and helmet on the trip. Your Trek Travel host will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

For self-guided trips you are welcome to thank your host with a gratuity based on your level of service.
  • Airfare and transportation to and from the trip meeting/departing locations
  • Lodging before and after the trip
  • Personal items purchased during the trip
  • Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
  • While we provide daily breakfast, the other meals are not included. On self-guided trips, Trek Travel provides restaurant recommendations and invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.

More Information

Rider Level: 3 - Active?

AVERAGE DAILY MILEAGE:
57 kilometers / 36 miles
TOTAL MILES:
286 kilometers / 178 miles
AVERAGE DAILY ELEVATION:
961 meters / 3,154 feet
TOTAL ELEVATION:
4,806 meters / 15,770 feet
TERRAIN: MOUNTAINOUS
The terrain in western North Carolina is mountainous, and the rides feature an average of about 88 feet of elevation gain per mile. Our Asheville self-guided bike tour is best suited for our Type 3 Riders. Those who wish to ride every mile but are concerned about their physical ability may want to try our electric bike option–you still get a workout but can climb alongside even the strongest rider. Type 4 Riders will enjoy the extra mileage and climbing the avid route options offer.
NON-RIDING ACTIVITIES:
There are a variety of non-riding options on this trip for riders who want to take the afternoon off or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip–please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Except as specified in the itinerary, expenses and transportation to these activities are not included in the trip price. Some non-riding options on this trip are:
  • Explore the many shops, galleries, and restaurants in downtown Asheville
  • Schedule a spa appointment
  • Visit the studios and galleries of the River Arts District
  • Take a historic trolley tour through Asheville
  • Explore South Slope breweries such as Burial Beer Company, Hi-Wire Brewing, and Greenman Brewing on a self-guided walking tour from your downtown Asheville hotel
  • Visit the Biltmore Estate
  • Visit the Sauna House for a nordic-style bathhouse experience with a hot sauna and cold plunge cool

See itinerary for specific daily ride distances and elevation options. On all of our vacations, Trek Travel seeks to find quiet, paved secondary roads or bike paths to experience a region; busy roads are avoided as much as possible. Our itineraries are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer every guest a vacation of a lifetime on every trip. At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or Trek Travel's local experts to improve the trip experience.

Averages and totals are calculated from our "Today’s Ride" options.

Travel Details

How to Get There

FLY INTO:
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)
MEETING TIME:
11:00 AM
MEETING LOCATION:
The Foundry Hotel, Asheville

Say Farewell

FLY OUT OF:
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL)
DEPARTING TIME:
11:00 AM
DEPARTING LOCATION:
The Foundry Hotel, Asheville

All Details

Arriving

We suggest that you arrive at least one day before the start of your Asheville self-guided bike tour, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Asheville Regional Airport (AVL). Delta, United, American, Allegiant plus several smaller airlines service this airport.

From the airport, you can call or hail a taxi to take you downtown. It is approximately 15 miles from the airport to the meeting day hotel in downtown Asheville, and a taxi ride should take about 20-25 minutes and cost $40 to $50. We recommend Diamond Executive Car Transportation (828-281-8139) or Marvels Upscale Transportation (828-280-1698; www.marvelstransofnc.com) for your in-town transportation needs.

Your Trek Travel host will meet you at The Foundry Hotel at 11:00 AM. Depending on number of guests booked for your departure date, it is possible we will ask you to shift your meeting time by approximately 30 minutes. Come dressed to ride along with anything else you will need for the day’s ride like personal pedals, saddles, GPS units, etc. The hotel will store your luggage until check-in after your ride. At the hotel, your host will fit you to your Trek bike and make sure you are comfortable and well prepared for the week ahead. Following a safety talk and a review of the details of the route, you'll then head out on your bike to begin your adventure in Asheville.

If you will be arriving late or are going to miss Day 1 altogether, please inform your Trek Travel host You will receive an email a week before the trip starts with his or her name and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, The Foundry Hotel (828-552-8545), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details.

View our pre hotel recommendations

Leaving

Your Trek Travel host will meet you at 11:00 AM at the Foundry Hotel to collect your bike and equipment. From here you may choose to extend your stay in the area or secure a taxi back to the Asheville Regional Airport. We recommend contacting Diamond Executive Car Transportation (828-281-8139) or Marvels Upscale Transportation (828-280-1698; www.marvelstransofnc.com) for your transportation needs.

View our post hotel recommendations

Planning For Your Trip

Packing and Weather

Asheville sits at an elevation just over 2,100 feet above sea level. Due to this, the region experiences later springs, earlier falls, and milder summers than other locations in the southeast. Rain is always a possibility any time of the year, and weather can change quickly in the higher elevations. On the Day 3 ride to the Craggy Gardens area at about 5,500 feet elevation, temperatures can be 10-15 degrees cooler than in downtown Asheville, so plan appropriately when packing your riding gear.Packing List

Before and After Your Trip

before

Before & After: Asheville, North Carolina

The mountain town of Asheville, North Carolina, is truly a unique place in the southeast, and we highly recommend taking a day or two before or after your trip to see what it has to offer. With an active community of artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs, this engaging and eclectic town has a creative spirit and energy that visitors immediately sense. In spring, summer, and fall, a walk through downtown’s many small shops and galleries takes you past street musicians and through an array of enticing smells drifting out of the open doors of local cafes. Enjoy the farmer’s markets, the many yoga studios, restaurants, and outdoor concerts. Also, there are opportunities for whitewater rafting, mountain biking, hiking, fly fishing, rock climbing, and pretty much any other outdoor activity imaginable within a short drive of downtown. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre and post-trip hotel.

Why Trek Travel

Our Bikes

Our unrivaled selection of Trek Bikes sets the bar for quality and comfort. From the ultra-smooth Trek Domane SL 7 to the Trek Electric-Assist Verve+, you deserve the best ride on your vacation. Plus, we offer a range upgrade options to take you the extra mile.

Our Guides

Our guides are trained to make your trip magical. They aren't just experts in riding; they're trained in delivering uncompromising service in ways you won't believe. We know that it's the unexpected surprises that make a trip magical. That's why our guides pride themselves on anticipating your needs before you ask.

Your Day. You Decide.

Our vacations are built to deliver the ultimate in flexibility, from extreme relaxers to hard-core roadies. You pick your mileage, itinerary and experiences. We take care of the rest.

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