Privately Guided Full Day Hike

The Privately Guided Full Day Hike from Asheville offers a personalized exploration of the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. Priced at $220 per person, this tour provides a flexible, fully tailored experience that spans 6 to 8 hours. The tour is designed for those who want a custom hiking adventure, with the guide adjusting the route to match your ability and interests. It starts at 8:30 am from Blue Ridge Hiking Company in downtown Asheville, making it a convenient option for visitors staying in the area.

A key feature of this tour is its private nature, meaning only your group participates, ensuring a relaxed, personalized atmosphere. The experience includes a picnic lunch and trekking poles upon request, with options to customize further based on dietary restrictions or physical needs. The tour is suitable for most travelers and is accessible, with service animals allowed and close proximity to public transportation. The tour’s high rating of 5.0 based on 42 reviews reflects its popularity and quality.

Key Points

• Private, fully customizable full-day hike near Asheville
• Includes a picnic lunch and optional trekking poles
• Guided meditation stop at Pisgah National Forest adds tranquility
• Duration varies from 6 to 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am
• Tour is suitable for most fitness levels and includes personalized routes
• Excellent reviews praise knowledgeable guides and stunning mountain views

Starting Point and Flexible Itinerary in Asheville

The tour starts at Blue Ridge Hiking Company located at 70 College St, Asheville, NC. The initial meet-up is straightforward, and the guide leads your private group through a flexible itinerary designed to match your preferences. The tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics simple for participants.

Hiking routes are tailored, but a highlight is a visit to Pisgah National Forest where you enjoy an easy hike to a secluded spot. Here, the guide may facilitate a guided meditation, adding a peaceful moment during the day. Many hikes include a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, renowned for its historic beauty and breathtaking vistas.

The Unique Experience of a Private Guided Hike

This tour offers the advantage of a fully personalized experience. You choose the distance and difficulty level, and the guide adapts the route accordingly. This flexibility makes it ideal for families, groups with varying abilities, or those wanting a more relaxed or challenging adventure. The private setting ensures a calm environment, free from the crowds often associated with popular trails.

The guide’s expertise is a standout feature, with reviews highlighting guides like Bev and Mel Gibson for their professionalism, enthusiasm, and deep knowledge of the area. They help craft a day tailored to your interests, whether that includes waterfalls, mountain overlooks, or wildflower-filled meadows.

Scenic Highlights and Stops for a Memorable Day

While the tour’s core is a full-day hike, the journey features several remarkable spots. The secluded hiking destinations and scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway promise panoramic views and peaceful nature encounters. Some reviews mention mountain vistas, meadows, and waterfalls as highlights, with guides often choosing the most stunning routes based on your preferences.

The inclusion of a picnic lunch allows you to enjoy the mountain scenery while recharging. The guide provides the picnic, and guests are encouraged to notify about dietary restrictions in advance. Trekking poles are available at no extra cost, offering additional support on uneven terrain.

Hiking in Pisgah National Forest and Beyond

One planned stop is Pisgah National Forest, where an easy hike leads to a secluded spot. Here, the guide may facilitate a guided meditation, making this stop a calming break amid your active day. The forest is an ideal location for those wanting a peaceful nature experience, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings and plant identification.

Additional routes may include drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering classic views and photo opportunities. This combination of forest hiking and mountain driving creates a diverse, engaging outdoor experience.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour is designed to accommodate most travelers, with the ability to customize routes to match your fitness level. It’s suitable for those with moderate mobility, but specific terrain details aren’t provided, so guests with special needs should clarify with the provider beforehand.

The duration of 6 to 8 hours means participants should be prepared for a full day outdoors, with considerations for hydration and sun protection. The guide provides trekking poles if requested, which can help reduce fatigue on uneven paths.

Logistics, Meeting Point, and Booking Tips

This private tour begins promptly at 8:30 am at Blue Ridge Hiking Company. The meeting point is accessible and near public transportation. Since the tour is booked on average 17 days in advance, early reservations are recommended to secure your preferred date.

Transportation to trailheads is not included, so travelers should plan to arrange their own transport or inquire about additional options with the provider. The tour ends where it begins, simplifying logistics for participants.

Why This Tour Stands Out from Other Asheville Hikes

Unlike group hikes or larger tour operators, this private experience emphasizes personalized attention and custom route planning. The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, ensuring an enjoyable and educational day.

The inclusion of lunch and trekking poles adds value, and the focus on nature, tranquility, and tailored experiences makes this an excellent choice for those seeking a flexible outdoor adventure in Asheville.

The Booking Experience and Cancellation Policy

Reservations can be secured easily via the provider, with confirmation received at the time of booking. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if your plans change. For cancellations less than 24 hours before, no refund is provided, so timely notice is advisable.

The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Final Thoughts on the Blue Ridge Private Guided Hike

The $220 price covers a personalized full-day experience, making it a worthwhile investment for those who value customization, expert guides, and scenic beauty. Its high 5-star rating reflects consistent satisfaction, especially for travelers who want a tailored and peaceful outdoor adventure.

Ideal for families, friends, or solo hikers seeking flexibility and expert guidance, this tour provides a comprehensive taste of Asheville’s mountain landscapes. The experience’s flexibility and high-quality guides truly set it apart from more generic group hikes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $220 fee includes a private guided hike, picnic lunch, and trekking poles upon request. Transportation and gratuities are not included.

Can I customize my route?
Yes, the guide tailors the hike to your ability and interests, whether you want a gentle walk, mountain views, waterfalls, or a mix.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, with routes customized to match your fitness level. Details on specific terrain are not specified, so discuss any concerns with the provider.

When should I book?
Most bookings are made about 17 days in advance, but early reservation is recommended to secure your preferred date.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring water, sun protection, and any personal items needed for a full day outdoors. The guide provides lunch and trekking poles if requested.

Is the tour accessible for service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed on this private hike.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you will be offered a full refund or a reschedule.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Blue Ridge Hiking Company, 70 College St, Asheville. The tour is designed to wrap up at the starting point for convenience.

Can I bring dietary restrictions?
Yes, notify the provider in advance so that the picnic lunch can accommodate specific dietary needs.

Is transportation to trailheads included?
No, transportation is not included but may be available for an additional fee if arranged beforehand.

This private guided hike provides an exceptional way to explore Asheville’s mountains with flexibility, expert guidance, and personalized attention, making it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts.