Gather, Then Take a Hike: Beautiful Trails Near Rooted & Gather

One of the best things about calling Western North Carolina home is how easy it is to step away from the noise and spend a little time in God's creation.

Rooted and Gather is tucked into Arden, just minutes from peaceful forest trails, mountain views, gardens, creeks, and family-friendly walking paths. Whether you're after a gentle morning stroll or a hike that earns you an extra pastry, there's an outdoor adventure nearby — and each one pairs especially well with a coffee stop at Rooted and Gather before or after.

We always love having you spend time with us here first. So gather with us... then, quite literally, go take a hike. (We mean that in the nicest way possible.)

The North Carolina Arboretum

If you want beautiful scenery without committing to a strenuous mountain hike, the Arboretum is a wonderful place to start. It offers more than 10 miles of trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes — wander through cultivated gardens, explore the National Native Azalea Collection, walk beside Bent Creek, or connect toward Lake Powhatan and Pisgah National Forest.

Try it if you're looking for: gardens, wildflowers, peaceful trails, family-friendly choices, or several difficulty levels in one place.

Good to know: Admission is free, but there's a per-vehicle parking fee (as of March 2026, standard parking is $25). Check the Arboretum's current hours and parking details before visiting.

Lake Powhatan and Bent Creek

Bent Creek feels wonderfully tucked away, even though it's just a short drive from South Asheville and Arden. It's popular with hikers and mountain bikers alike, so be ready to share the trail.

For an easy family outing, the Homestead Trail is a one-mile loop that follows the creek, passes the dam and spillway, and continues toward Lake Powhatan — perfect when you want time in the woods without an all-day excursion. Ready to go farther? The six-mile Hard Times Loop travels through the forest and near the lake, with mountain-ridge views along the way.

Try it if you're looking for: a wooded walk, a family-friendly loop, creek views, lake scenery, or room to extend your adventure.

Good to know: Dogs are welcome on leash. Trail conditions and facilities can vary, so check the U.S. Forest Service's Bent Creek information before heading out.

Nearby AllTrails Favorites Around Avery Creek Road

If you like planning hikes with AllTrails, these well-loved routes are all close by and easy to search by name.

Bent Creek / Lake Powhatan Area

• Hard Times Loop Trail — a local favorite for a longer forest loop with rolling terrain and classic Bent Creek scenery

• Explorer Loop Trail (Bent Creek Experimental Forest) — a moderate loop through mixed hardwood forest with a steady, enjoyable rhythm

• Wolf Branch Trail — a quieter, more natural-feeling trail with creek crossings and shaded forest

• Bent Creek Trail (Arboretum section) — a peaceful, creekside route connecting easily to other Arboretum trails

North Carolina Arboretum

• Carolina Mountain Trail — scenic woodland with gentle elevation changes and access to overlooks

• Natural Garden Trail — a relaxed walk through landscaped gardens and native plant collections

• Rhododendron Trail — a shaded, botanical trail, especially beautiful in bloom season

Pisgah National Forest Access

• Bent Creek Gap Trail — a more rugged forest experience connecting into the larger Pisgah trail system

• Avery Creek Trail — a creekside route with a natural, less-developed feel, great for hikers wanting something quieter

Try these if you're looking for: reliable AllTrails routes close to Arden, shaded forest hikes, creek access, or easy-to-moderate local adventures without driving far.

Good to know: Cell service can be limited in some areas, so download your AllTrails map before you go.

Bill Moore Community Park

Not every outdoor day needs a climb. For a relaxed walk with children, friends, or your dog, Bill Moore Community Park in Fletcher offers miles of scenic walking trails alongside Cane Creek, plus playgrounds, picnic areas, gardens, and a dog park — a great option when your group spans different ages or activity levels, or when you just want fresh air and conversation.

Try it if you're looking for: a gentle walk, accessible park paths, a family outing, a picnic, or an easy place to move without a mountain hike.

Good to know: Open daily from daylight to dusk. Visit the Town of Fletcher's park page for current information.

Make Rooted and Gather Part of Your Trail Day

Before you head out, stop in for a handcrafted latte, matcha, chai, or coffee to start your adventure. After your hike, come back for a cold drink, a bakery treat, and a comfortable place to rest and gather.

You'll find us in our historic 1925 schoolhouse at:

Rooted and Gather 339 Avery's Creek Road Arden, NC 28704

We're conveniently located near The North Carolina Arboretum, Bent Creek, Lake Powhatan, and many of the beautiful outdoor spaces surrounding South Asheville.

Trails, weather, parking fees, and access can change, so always check the official destination website before leaving home — and bring water, appropriate shoes, and a downloaded trail map when heading into the forest.

We hope your time outside leaves you refreshed, grateful, and reminded of the beauty all around us.

Rooted in Him. Gather in love.