Top Asheville Running Tours

Clearcut by loggers over 100 years ago, these high mountain peaks offer some of the best views in all of Pisgah National Forest. The Plott Balsams, Black Mountains, and even Mount Mitchell can be seen from their summits. Along the way, we'll offer a brief history lesson to how the area came to be.

Every guide on our team has developed an intimate knowledge of our national forest and can offer you an in-depth history to all the areas we run in. Originally owned by George Vanderbilt, Pisgah National Forest is the oldest of its kind in the eastern United States and holds deep historical relevance among several generations. Though different than a hiking tour, our running tours accommodate any pace - even if you may consider yours more of a hike. It's also expected that we will stop several times for photos along the way.

Pisgah National Forest is the oldest of its kind in the eastern US. With over 500,000 acres and 1,600 miles of trail, some of the best overlooks and waterfalls are often overlooked. We will meet at Ecusta Brewing, then you will follow me to the trailhead, a ~30 minute scenic drive including a bit of dirt road. 2-wheel drive vehicles will have no problem, the road is well-maintained. Starting at the trailhead, we will run a ~7 mile loop with 1,400' of vertical. The run parallels a beautiful mountain stream with several cascades, then climbs its way up to one of the best overlooks in the forest - Slate Rock. Towering over the Pink Beds Valley, the overlook includes views of nearby Pilot Rock and the distant high peaks of the Great Balsam Range. I would argue that the views are far better than John Rock, Cedar Rock, or even Looking Glass Rock. Its limited popularity is due mostly to its remoteness and difficulty to navigate due to several unmarked trails along the way.

This Private Running Tour will give you a look at Asheville from a local's perspective and will give you a great workout. Our guides live and breathe Asheville and we love showing off this unique mountain town. Our guides are trained to ensure you have a great run. We will adjust our distance and pace to whatever is best for you.

Every guide on our team has developed an intimate knowledge of our national forest and can offer you an in-depth history to all the areas we run in. Originally owned by George Vanderbilt, Pisgah National Forest is the oldest of its kind in the eastern United States and holds deep historical relevance among several generations. What makes us different than other tour companies is our selection of local guides who are all able to lead this 30-mile trip on a moment's notice. We pride ourselves in only utilizing top-notch trail and ultra runners with extensive knowledge and expertise in the sport.

Beginning at the North Carolina Arboretum, we'll take you on a run through beautiful forests, seasonal wildflowers, and fresh mountain streams. We'll pass exhibits of short-leaf pine, eastern hemlock, red cedar, and even an assortment of native azaleas, among others. As we run, we'll share a brief history of how the nearby Biltmore Estate was crucial in the founding of Pisgah National Forest, and ultimately the cornerstone for sustainable logging across the country. The arboretum offers an assortment of trail and gravel roads, and we will pick a loop within everyone's ability. Novice and experienced runners are both welcome! The route will range from 3 to 5 miles, never more than an hour. Afterward, the Bent Creek Bistro within the Arboretum offers seasonal brunch and dinner options plus coffee, beer, and wine. Start times may be coordinated with seasonal events such as peak leaf colors, Christmas light exhibits, or specific wildflower blooms.