Reviews of Blue Ridge Hiking Company. (Campground) in Asheville (North Carolina).

Blue Ridge Hiking Company

173 Reviews

120 Comments

Campground

Outdoor activity organiser

70 College St, Asheville, NC 28801, United States

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Information of Blue Ridge Hiking Company, Campground in Asheville (North Carolina)

Discover the opening times, the location, contact, popular times, photos and real reviews by internet users.

This place has a very good rate, they treat their customers well and you’ll feel welcome, super recommended

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Reviews of Blue Ridge Hiking Company

Nicole Stone

I’ve been on two trips with Blue Ridge Hiking Co so far and they’re awesome! From start to finish, the trips are well planned, with great hiking, great gear, and the best guides—Jenna was a rockstar, so fun and kind. We had unexpected weather this most recent trip, and she and the company took care of all the details of the change of plans; we all felt well looked after. I’ve got a third trip with Blue Ridge Hiking coming up and can’t wait. Highly recommend all around.

Tori Fitzsimmons

My husband and I celebrated our 10th anniversary by using Blue Ridge hiking company to guide us through the Blue Ridge mountains. We had Tamera and she was wonderful. She gave us so much history about the wildlife we were hiking through while also guiding us through some less touristy trails at high elevations. The views were breathtaking ! She also made us lunch and hot tea along the way as we ate next to a beautiful stream in the mountains. It was an amazing experience we will never forget! Blue Ridge was very easy to work with and we will definitely use again. Highly recommend!!

Jay Boryscka

My friend and I chose a private 6 day guided hike with Blue Ridge in the Smokies. Everyone with the company did a great job to make this happen, great quality rental gear. You should choose Blue Ridge. BUT THE BEST PART OF THE TRIP WAS OUR GUIDE HEIDI. This is usually the place where I would talk about how professional she was and that she took good care of us, of course she excelled there. WHAT I REALLY WANT TO SHARE WITH YOU is that when booking your trip TELL them you need Heidi. You can thank me later. She is a special soul that can't keep held inside her LOVE for the Appalachian Trail and backpacking and her appreciation of unexpected gems nature displays along your journey. Getting to spend nearly a week away from any form of technology, hearing a Heidi story during a tough hill climb made it fly by, learning a new card game in camp, "earning" a trail name, learning how to Leave No Trace and hike so you don't widen the trail, and 5000 more memories I will cherish from this trip. Heidi will touch your heart, whip out a beautiful watercolor painting on the trail even better than nature's original, and make you start to plan your next trip to the woods before this one is done!

Tom Stiles

We had a great experience with BRH on our private guided backpacking trip on the Art Loeb Trail. Firstly, the rental gear and food provided was great and all laid out for us when we met at the rendezvous point on the first morning. As we progressed through the hike, our guide Amy was able to tailor the trip to suit our ability levels, which was great. She was also always happy to share expert tips and advice, which will undoubtedly make me a more efficient and confident hiker in the future. Highly recommended.

farrah hoffmire

I took my 13 year old niece on the 3-day women’s backpacking trip for beginners and it exceeded my expectations. Lexie was an awesome guide who lead with grace, knowledge, and poise. She created a fun and safe environment for each and every camper who came with different levels of knowledge and experience. My niece and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and feel competent and eager to backpack on our own now. We learned so much from Lexie and appreciate Blue Ridge Hiking Company for offering such an important service.

Nancy Jiang

After much research, I decided to go with Blue Ridge Hiking Co for my first backpacking trip. I ended up doing a 3 day/2 night trip along the AT. Big thank you to our guide Jenna, Trail-er caretaker Amy, and manager Lindsey for being so helpful and engaged leading up to the trip, during, and after! The zoom “campfire” sessions the weeks before was a great space to meet the other hikers and ask any residual questions. I stayed at the Trail-er the night before and it was very clean and safe. Our guide Jenna had fantastic energy throughout and was very calm and collected when handling things that popped up (e.g re-routing us to accommodate a hiker who joined mid-way through the trip due to flight cancellation). She started a campfire each night (we were all extremely impressed as it had rained the first day) and it was so fun to bond with the other hikers around the fire. I highly recommend booking a trip with BRHC and Jenna, and can’t wait until my next one!

Amy Talbott

If you're into backpacking, or are interested in learning, I highly recommend Blue Ridge Hiking Company! I have been on two trips, the Women's Intro to Backpacking trip on the Appalachian Trail, and the High Peaks of Pisgah trip. On both, the communication about plans was flawless, the gear provided was top-notch, and the guides were so fun and encouraging. I plan to come back for another trip as soon as I can.

Betsy Bevis

We had a stellar hike with Lexie. She was prepared, professional and a lot of fun to hike with. She recommended the perfect hike based on our request and she was excited to answer all our random questions and frequent stops to check out the flora. It was a lot of fun, great company and very easy to book. Highly recommended.

Elana Richardson

If you want to start hiking but not sure where to start, I recommend Blue Ridge Hiking Company. Special shout out to Amy our host at the bunkhouse and Jenn Gift our guide. We had the proper equipment and necessities for our trip thanks to these two ladies. We had a great time hiking, enjoyed spectacular views, made new friends while creating great memories. Jenn guided our group and was attentive and informative to each hiker. It was a lot of fun and I hope to enjoy another hike soon!

Sara Webb

I have never backpacked or really hiked in my entire life. I love working out and being outdoors, but just never knew how to take this next step. Blue Ridge Hiking made it easy and the 3 day/2 night backpacking trip was life-changing. I loved my time on the AT and our guide Kacie taught us how to hike solo when I choose to go back! Amy held down the fort at the Trail-er - allowing showers before and after (the after was MUCH needed). Totally 5 stars+ and I really, really, really recommend everyone using Blue Ridge Hiking if you want to test the waters with backpacking - so many options available to fit all schedules!

Debbie Graff

I drove home knowing how to use a compass and map! I had my doubts that I could actually learn these skills, but Melissa made it fun and easy- well almost easy - easy enough that my artsy brain could get it! She is very knowledgeable of the area as well as knowing the compass skills. She wove history and local info into her lessons of map & compass usage. The hike she led us on to practice our newly learned lessons was a rewarding one! The view at the top was breathtaking and the snacks she had for us were well earned, lol! I look forward to doing more trips and workshops with Blue Ridge Hiking Co. Guide Melissa 10/10 😎 workshop 🧭10/10

Bob miller

My recent hike with Blue Ridge, and especially our guide, Heidi Nisbett far exceeded even my wildest dreams of a Guided Private Hike. Heidi started out with a thorough shake out of our gear, ensuring we had the proper equipment at the best possible weight. Thereafter, she was instrumental in making sure we were properly prepared for each and every day of our hike in the Smokies. I was a first time hiker with much to learn and she took the time to make sure I took care of my health, food and hydration needs. If I could give Heidi a higher rating than 5 stars, I would be pleased to do so. If you are looking for a group or private tour, for your own good, check out Blue Ridge and ask for Heidi.

Jason Tsai

Our intro to hiking trip with our guide Traci was a truly informative and fun excursion that fit perfectly into a long weekend. Traci's expansive knowledge and adventurous spirit grounded our group in the joy and wonders of the Pisgah National Forest and took us out of the humdrum of our city routines. Every practical lesson, be it a new-to-us knot for hanging a bear bag or the geometry of how to properly pitch a tent, was truly hands-on and engaging. The Blue Ridge team thoroughly informed us of expectations at every stage and made sure we were well-stocked on sound equipment and delicious food for our trip. I would not hesitate to go on another adventure next summer with Blue Ridge Hiking.

Francesca Arcidiacono

My daughter and I recently attended BRHC’s “Family Campout” in order to learn some backpacking skills. I can’t brag enough about how well the trip went and how well our guides Lexie and Melissa took care of us all. We showed up at the trail head and were walked through our gear as well as additional options our guides liked depending on weather and need. We were given a wide range of food to choose from, all of which was appropriate for backpacking and tasty. The ladies even went to the trouble to plan for a special s’mores dessert bar. All of the gear was in good working order and I thought it was really cool to have the opportunity to try out a gossamer gear pack (I had the Mariposa). Will be having one of these in the future sometime. ;) Once everyone was packed and fed, (a nice selection of meats cheeses hummus veggies dips and other items for lunch) we headed out on our planned route. Due to a possible overcrowding issue at the campsite our guides rerouted us on the fly to different campsite that turned out to be nice and out of the way with some lovely wild flowers. They were very professional and on top of things. Speaking of flowers, my daughter (8) had a blast quizzing the guides about the local plants, fungi, and trees. Melissa and Lexie were so patient and kind with her and really kept her engaged on the trail. I could go on and on. :) We both had a blast and learned a ton about backpacking including leave no trace practices you might not consider until you realize you don’t know how to wash your dish or brush your teeth responsibly “in the wild”. Haha. All I can say is only cook what you’re prepared to eat and be prepared to drink the dish water!! Otherwise you end up packing out the extra. Bottom line, if you’re considering backpacking and want a gentle introduction for you or you and your family, I would highly recommend this trip. The distance and difficulty was manageable for a beginner which allowed us to adjust to carrying weight and develop some skills for backpacking on our own or with a more difficult group trip. It was a great way to build confidence and gauge my daughters and my own ability and Melissa and Lexie were great about answering all of our questions.

Tina Yager

My husband and I had a wonderful hike with Kacie on a drizzly late fall morning. I’m glad we embraced a rainy morning hike with Kacie for our short visit to the Asheville area. She brought hiking umbrellas, a route suggestion we wouldn’t have found on our own, and excellent company. Kacie matched the pace of the slowest person (me) and found a fun side hike to include when we found ourselves ahead of schedule. Highly recommend! Also, Blue Ridge was sold out for our preferred time slot so I emailed them as the website suggested. They got back to me shortly and found a great guide available for the time that worked best for us.

Amber Weeks

Just completed a 3 day/2 night backpacking adventure on the AT. I can’t say enough how amazing my first experience backpacking was. All the equipment was top notch, and our tour guide, Lexie was amazing. Her calm and confident spirit helped eliminate any fears and we had a great bonding experience overall as a group. Highly recommend and already wanting to plan another trip with this company.

Austin Price

I did an AT thru hike prep backpacking trip for my upcoming 2022 AT hike with an awesome guide Matt. His attention to detail and passion for my experience has helped with my preparation and I know will help while I’m out on the trail. It so nice to hike with someone that has done several long distance thru hikes. No YouTube video or research can compare to what I learned from Matt On this trip. Thanks!!

Wendy Miller

If you are looking for a hiking company to guide you on a trail in North Carolina, I highly recommend the Blue Ridge Hiking Company. I have attended two of their trips, recently a long day hike from the summit of Mount Mitchell led by the owner, Jennifer Pharr Davis. She made me feel like I was one of her long-time best friends. In 2017 I did a 3-day backpacking trip from Max Patch to Hot Springs led by one of her very knowledgeable guides. I felt very confident on each of these trips. I look forward to a return trip as soon as possible.

Jesse Scott

My experience with Blue Ridge Hiking Company has been wonderful from the very beginning. They helped me select a trip that was the best fit for my skill level and needs. I ended up testing positive for Covid a few days before my trip was scheduled but they kindly rescheduled me with no questions asked. My trip included an overnight stay at the “Trail-er” bunkhouse. The bunkhouse is a cozy manufactured home that is conveniently nestled in the town of Hot Springs. It has everything a weary hiker would want or need. Comfortable bedding and furniture, a fully appointed kitchen and gorgeous, newly renovated bathrooms. Our Gear shakedown before leaving for our hike was fun and informative. It was like going on a shopping trip for food and equipment. The gear provided was top-of-the-line and worked flawlessly. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable about the area we were hiking in and the wildlife surrounding us. We all felt completely confident with her at the helm, guiding us through the rugged terrain and even past black bears along the way! I came to Blue Ridge Hiking Company, hoping to answer these questions: Is backpacking some thing I’m interested in doing? What kind of equipment configuration would be best for me? What are the etiquette guidelines for making camp and sharing the wilderness with fellow hikers? Beginners and experienced hikers alike will benefit from one of their guided trips. All of my questions and many more were answered by our gracious guide and I now have a new passion for backpacking. I feel like my investment in this trip will pay dividends, as I am now better equipped to purchase the essentials for backpacking. Plus, I had an extraordinary, experience that I will never forget! Thank you Tamera and Blue Ridge Hiking Company!

Tonya Clark

I just returned from my 3rd trip with Blue Ridge Hiking Company. I can't say enough great things about this company. From the excellent equipment they provide, the amazing experience, to the highly knowledgeable and caring guides. My recent trip (High Peaks of Pisgah) was lead by Kacie who has many years of experience with hiking and backpacking. I am fairly new and still learning so I was grateful that she shared so much of her experience with us. She made the trip fun, met us at the level of our skills and showed us some of the most beautiful sites that we may have never found on our own. I really hope to get the chance to hike with her again on a future BRHC trip.

Aliza F

I had an amazing hike with Bev! Wonderful experience for a solo female traveler. Bev was so much fun, encouraging, and empowering. I’m recovering from a back injury, and she helped me a lot with a hiking pole lesson on the fly. She’s super knowledgeable about the area and gave me a lot of great tips for the rest of my trip. And she just so happens to be an amazing iPhone photographer - I’ve never been so surprisingly flattered by candid shots 😂. We did a half day hike, and I can’t wait to come back, drag some friends along, and try an overnight backpacking trip with her. Highly recommend.

Manuela Klopper

We did two hikes with Juliette and had a fun time. She knew exactly what we wanted to do and see. Very friendly lady! We also enjoyed a delicious lunch on the mountain top, Great company! Thank you very much Juliette for all your efforts.

Terry Moore

Just finished our first trip with Blue Ridge Hiking Company in Pisgah National Forest and it could have not been a better experience. The entire BRHC team was so accommodating and responsive. Took my two pre-teen kids and wasn't sure what to expect as this was their first backpacking trip. Heidi was a complete rockstar guide. Not only did she keep them engaged the entire time but taught us so many lessons on how to backpack the right way. The trip was well planned and the gear was top-notch. The hike was challenging but not crazy and it was so much more than just a hike. We painted the beautiful scenery, learned about local wildflowers and edible plants, saw a few late season lightning bugs, star gazed, rock hopped at a waterfall, and so much more, including s'mores. I would highly recommend Heidi and the Blue Ridge Hiking Company if you are looking for an experience, not just a hike.

Niyama Yoga & Wellness Studio

Our trip through the AT with guide, Meredith was amazing and more than we could have ever expected. We hiked through a hurricane and Blie Ridge, along with our guide ensured our safety and comfort. I cannot say enough about this company and cannot wait to plan my next hike!

Nicole Zornitzer

Blue Ridge Hiking Company is the most fabulous guided hiking company in the industry. My son and I just completed our 2nd year in a row with them and we cannot say enough how amazing they are. This year we stepped up our challenge and hiked the Art Loeb Trail. While on the trail, some of my past injuries began to act up, so our guide, Tanner, ensured that I could leave the mountain safely and coordinated transportation for me back to base. My son continued on the journey, safely. Tanner was a highly skilled guide, whom I felt more than confident leaving my son with during a storm. We have learned so much from each guide, each experience and look forward to doing this again next year!

Courtney Schmelzle

I would highly recommend Blue Ridge Hiking Company to guide your next AT adventure, you will not be disappointed! Myself and four other ladies recently hiked a small portion of the Appalachian Trail (Max Patch to Hot Springs) and it was an amazing experience! The night before our hike we stayed at the Blue Ridge Hiking Company bunkhouse. Haley from Blue Ridge greeted us at the door and stayed with us the entire night. She was so nice and accommodating. Christine (Dormouse) from Blue Ridge Hiking Company was our guide and she was phenomenal. She fit right in and quickly became one of us. Not only did she educate us about the AT she also talk about her many other hiking experiences and let me tell you, she is a rock star. I also want to mention that the gear (backpack, sleeping pad and tent) that I borrowed from the was very high quality and the food Christine brought was delicious.

Manaan Alexander

We took a team trip to Asheville and went on a great half day hike with Mel and Lauren! They were organized, friendly and extremely knowledgeable. We had a beautiful and refreshing day of hiking and saw some amazing waterfalls!

Ami Wong

We had a wonderful hike with Mel G. She came prepared with lots of snacks (basically a charcuterie board) and notes about history, as we were with a university group. Mel was flexible with our schedule, as our initial date was iced out and we had to change last minute, and even stayed a little overtime so we could see another small trail. Overall great service and very respectful.

Lauren Thurmond

Tanner lead a great sunset hike for my husband and me. Quick check-in, easy navigation, and great options for snacks.

Jamie Laws

After spending a year cooped up in the house this is exactly what my body and soul needed. The Women's Wildflowers and Waterfalls Hike was beautiful and just the right level of difficulty for a beginner. Lindsey was an amazing guide and so knowledgeable. Meeting the group of 5 ladies that did this hike alongside me made it that much more memorable. We laughed out of pain, fear, and sheer delight! The level of instruction prior to the trip AMAZING, the food and snacks AMAZING, the focus on sharing tips and tricks AMAZING, the gear setup AMAZING...I could keep going on and on! I left feeling way more confident in my abilities and ready to book another adventure. I would highly recommend this hike to anyone looking to get outside and into the woods. If you get Lindsey as your guide, consider it icing on the cake.

Pamela M

The best hike of my life was through this company. I had a private hike and it was awesome. My tour guide Bev was amazing. She was super fun and was very knowledgeable. I will definitely be back!

Firewalking Ryan

We had an excellent trip with Matt as our guide. The whole experience from initial email questions to post trip follow up was excellent. I was hesitant at first booking "Introduction to backpacking" trip having car camped my whole life. Let me be the first to tell you the experience and information shared was worth it's "weight" in gold. If you want to learn about backpacking, maybe you have some gear, maybe you have been there and done that, Matt was fully sharing an endless wealth of knowledge to teach, share, and grow our experience. I would say the cost of this trip was covered 10-fold by the information shared that will tangibly result in the savings of not buying incorrect or unneeded gear. At some point over the weekend we interacted with three guides all with something to share. I could tell beginners to even the most accomplished hiker benefit from their experience. Overall the casual yet high level of professionalism was much welcomed. Blue Ridge Hiking Company is highly recommended.

Tonya Manus

I am an active hiker but have never backpacked or spent the night in a tent and really wanted to learn how and what to do! Luckily I found Blue Ridge Hiking Company online - and had the best experience with the women's backpack group on the AT (3 days, 2 nights - Max Patch to Hot Springs). This was a beginners group that included all the gear and food needed. Our guide Lexie "Curls" was the absolute best!! She was so patient and helped me so much during the hike to learn and understand the basics of backpacking. After this experience, I truly have a different appreciation for hiking and the beauty of the trails!! When I arrived at the "Trail"er on Thursday night, I knew no one - but leaving on Sunday I was sad to be leaving ladies that I now call friends! I totally recommend Blue Ridge Hiking and Lexie "Curls" if you are wanting to learn the basics of backpacking!!

Yadira Ramos

I would definitely recommend using this company for either day trips or longer backpacking trips. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet women from different parts of the country and make new friends. The guide Emma was amazing, very knowledgeable about her craft. She taught us about every little aspect of hiking and camping including how and where to set up a tent, cooking the food, getting water, and how to do all this in a respectful and sustainable way. I was very impressed with the way she handled different situations that arose with a calm and professional manner. I also recommend staying in their bunk house in Hot Springs if you are hiking in the area. It is comfortable and very clean with a wonderful caretaker: Haley. She was so cheerful and helpful during our stay, sharing with us about all the amazing places where she has been, as well as hiking tips on what to bring.

Camilla Costa

Went on a week trip for school and loved every minute of it. The hikes, the activities, the people and energy they gave. Such an amazing experience that I never thought I would’ve done before. Thank you so much for the memories I will never forget.

Jordan Jaeger

Blue Ridge Hiking Company was responsive from the time I contacted them. I knew I wanted to get myself and my two boys back out in the woods but also knew there was much I needed to learn for us to be safe. Blue Ridge Hiking Company and Emma, our guide, helped us do that. They made sure we knew what we needed to bring and then provided a significant amount of the gear we did not have. They arranged all the food which was a big deal. Shuttles were provided by Blue Ridge Hiking Company. We had a GREAT 3 days and 2 nights in the woods. Learned lots. Hiked lots. We will be going with them again soon! As they said, "The Trail Loves Everyone" Bottom line is Emma made the FUN FACTOR really high!

Jennifer Osborne

I have been dreaming of thru-hiking the AT for years, but I had absolutely zero experience backpacking. I booked a trip with Blue Ridge and was pretty nervous going in that I would be out of my element as the only newbie in the all ladies group. Upon arrival at the company bunkhouse, I immediately felt comfortable with the friendly guide and the rest of the group, as we all set a goal to learn more about backpacking. Christine calmly and methodically went through all of our clothes and personal items to ensure we packed smartly and efficiently. I was able to borrow all of the larger gear items from Blue Ridge, which gave me the opportunity to learn all the insider tips through tried-and-tested methods. The entire trip was a learning experience, and I became a confident backpacker as Christine showed us all the ropes. She was positive, encouraging, and patient as we practiced our new skills. I would highly recommend booking a guided trip to learn the ins and outs of backpacking, and I plan to book another trip next summer with my family, so they can also experience the beauty of the AT. Thanks Blue Ridge and Christine! I will be back!

Mary Hood

First, I must say thank you to our wonderful, highly experienced and knowledgeable Guide- Emma H. I had wanted to do a backpacking trip on the AT for a long time but I had no idea where to begin. Blue Ridge Hiking Co. was the answer!! They took care of all the details of the trip including supplying top notch equipment, (tent, sleeping bag, tent, food etc.) Emma shared her vast array of knowledge of the AT and backpacking in general. I highly recommend a guided trip for anyone that has hesitations/anxiety about backpacking the AT for the first time. What I learned during our 3 days was invaluable. Safety for ourselves. respect for the trails and abiding by the rules of the trails, how to prepare meals, (food was surprisingly excellent), set up and take down of camp, finding and filtering water, information about fruits, plants and trees including the benefits and dangers and the list goes on. Although we did not lodge the evening prior to the trip at the Blue Ridge Hiking Co. new "Trail-er" located in Hot Springs, after seeing it in person I would definitely take advantage of those accommodations. You could sense the pride taken in making the "Trail-er" a clean hospitable welcoming stay. Thank you Halley! Finally, wear comfortable shoes. Emma also is quite talented at tending to blistered feet. sorry Emma. Wear comfortable shoes and remember this is not a walk in the park. Be ready for a physical walk in the woods up and down MOUNTAINS!!! Thanks again Blue Ridge Hiking Co. - we will be back!!!!

K Washington

I'm so happy that we used Blue Ridge Hiking Company. Traci led us on a spectacular hike to a gorgeous waterfall on my birthday. I couldn't be happier with the excellent service. Traci taught us about local wildlife, trees and plants and technical aspects of hiking. She also gave us excellent recommendations for kumbucha and juice in the area. I will 100 percent use both Blue Ridge and Traci again.

Jackie Noller

My 1/2 day private hike was exceptional. From first contact, I found the staff and guides to be top flight outdoors experts for Western North Carolina. My private guide was very knowledgeable about Appalachian flora and offered suggestions for other great hikes in the area. I would highly recommend that any traveler or resident organize customized hiking trips through this company to have a first rate experience of the majesty and mystery of the Blue Ridge range.

Brenda Stern

Blue Ridge hiking co is excellent!! Before we even arrived I spoke with Jen who was immensely helpful! We went on a hike to DuPont State park with Lauren Smucker—she was fabulous! Lauren was knowledgeable, easy to be with and so fun. We highly recommend Lauren and this hike!

Sarah Cox

What a perfect day we had celebrating my husbands 60th birthday while on a private guided tour with Bev! She made our day extra special with sharing her love for nature, her knowledge on history, plants and mother earth. She planned a delicious lunch for us which we shared at river side (an awesome view!) and even brought a birthday cake for my husband (complete with a candle!). We highly recommend Bev on your guided tour - you won't be disappointed! Looking forward to another hike with her! Thank you Bev!

Charles Vianey

I've been familiar with Jennifer Pharr Davis and her accomplishments for a number of years. We were in Asheville recently and visited their office and spoke with one of their reps. I decided to book a group trip for a 1/2 day hike and had a fabulous experience. My guide, Mel, was superb. I was the only person who signed up so she gave me the option of where we hiked and I selected "Lovers Leap" near Hot Springs, NC. Mel was delightful and hiked at my pace, shared history of the area and identified a number of mushroom varieties. She communicated regularly, leading up to the hike, and was right on time to meet me in the morning and deliver me back to Asheville that afternoon. I highly recommend their guide service.

William Mack

My family of four arranged a half-day hike with Lauren and she was amazing. We asked for a hike that would emphasize waterfalls around Asheville and she found a perfect one -- slightly challenging, but with great views. She was very knowledgeable about hiking in the Blue Ridge and along the Appalachian Trail and pointed out a number of interesting features and plants on the hiking trail. One of the highlights was stopping for a snack near the base of a 100-foot waterfall. We couldn't have asked for a better morning (maybe a little less cloudy!). We will most certainly use Blue Ridge in future trips to Asheville and ask Lauren to guide us again if she is available.

Amy Neiman

I just visited Asheville and the Great Smokies for the first time from California last week. I wanted an awesome experience of the Appalachian Trail and just the Great Smokies in general. I called Blue Ridge Hiking Company, told them what my time frame was and what I was looking for and they created two amazing days for me that met all my criteria and scheduling needs! I hiked in two totally different areas on two separate days with Lauren Smucker and had the experience of a lifetime. It was so awesome...these ladies rule! Lauren was such a pleasure to walk with-great knowledge of the area and wonderful stories to share! Next time I plan to arrange a few nights in the mountains with this companyI could not recommend them more highly. I promiseyou will LOVE. Thanks Lauren! Thanks Blue Ridge!

guillermina ochoa

Had an amazing experience a few weeks ago doing the Women AT backpacking trip. Our guide Jenn Gift is a very knowledgeable guide and a lot of fun, always making sure everyone was having a great time, and hiking their ow hike. Staying at the bunkhouse the nigh before was a perfect time to meet my fellow hikers. Amy, the sweetest girl and caretaker of the trail-er welcomed us and mentally prepared us for the next day. Mingling with the thru hikers at Hot springs was a bonus. Highly recommend the company and planing on doing another trip with them, even though i had to drive 7-8 hours to get there and back.

mary alice reid

What a great outing! The trail was perfect for a couple in their 50s of average fitness. Our guide Mel brought gear for us and yummy snacks. We learned a lot about hiking preparedness and safety, nature and Asheville. I plan to return in the future for another outdoor adventure. Absolutely don’t miss this chance to unplug and spend time with nature.Loved it. Thanks Mel !

Michelle Huston

Cannot say enough about my experience with Jennifer Pharr Davis' Blue Ridge Hiking Company and Trail-er hiker hostel. From pre-arrival accessibility to ask questions as I prepared for my trip, to the excellent route recommendations that matched exactly what I was looking for, to the welcoming, relaxed, and comfortable atmosphere of the Trail-er...no detail is overlooked to help you and your friends have a great experience on the trail. Big thanks and shout-out to "Trail-er Queen" Haley who graciously answered questions, shared part of her amazing hiker-story, and set us up for two great days on the AT. Can't wait to return.

Beth Weidl

I did the 3 day backpacking trip from Max Patch to Hot Springs. It was a stunningly beautiful section of trail with a great group of women. I went in a total novice (hiking experience but not backpacking), and now I'd feel confident backpacking on my own or with family because of the wisdom shared by our guide, Jenn Gift. She was not only knowledgable but really fun to be around and I hope to hike with her again someday.

Lorraine Holeman

Backpacking with Blue Ridge Hiking Company is the experience of a lifetime! I just completed the Women's Beginning Backpacking trip and loved it! Beautiful hike, amazing guides, world-class instruction. Thank you!!

Marge Caramela

We had a great day with Tanner hiking part of the Appalachian trail and another nearby trail. During our hike, Tanner became more of a friend than a guide. He shared stories of his own experiences on the Appalachian trail as well as other travels that he's had. Although he is only 23 years old he is wise beyond his years. Weather was a potential issue on the day of our hike, but Tanner kept on top of the situation so that we could maximize our day. I highly recommend Blue Ridge Hiking Company and Tanner as a guide.

Julie Bishop

BRHC is a wonderful operation. I have completed 2 different backpacking trips (>50mi) with them & will be back for more! I loved the simplicity of showing up and knowing everything would be provided. Guides Emma and Lauren are so knowledgeable, caring and passionate about the Trail. They showed me how to survive and thrive on the AT. Love Haley and the Trail-er! BRHK is the complete package. Thank you for the life changing experiences ! Julie

Josh Espinoza

I've used BRHC two times now. First with Matt Dobson and the second time with Melissa Gibson. If you are looking for the absolute best guided hike experience this is the place. Forget all the city bustle and get out to the real. Both times have been absolutely excellent and more fun and wholesome than anything I could have done around town. The guides are extremely knoledgeable and will customize the trip to you and your needs. Also they will have all the supplies and gear you will need. Having that piece of mind being out there with such a professional is great because it allows you to fully enjoy the experience. It's now a must for me to do when visiting Asheville. 10/10 doctors recommend BRHC.

Jared Zornitzer

I just completed a three day section hiking trip from Max Patch, NC to Hot Springs, NC. Our guide was Meredith. She was an excellent guide - she put a lot of effort into teaching us the basics of backpacking. She always made sure that everyone in my group was comfortable, well-fed, and doing ok whenever we were hiking. The company provided us with top-notch gear from a 60 L Pack to a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, as well as all food. I would absolutely recommend Blue Ridge Hiking Company's backpacking trips to anyone interested, regardless of their experience level.

Jason Green

Took a half-day private hike with Melissa. When I placed the order I had specified that we wanted to see some waterfalls. They were quick to reply and very accommodating and we had an incredible hike! Saw some beautiful falls, amazing scenery, even a 200 year old cemetery in the woods! The hike was just the right speed - not too tough, not too easy. Melissa was a great guide, pointed out local flora, told us some history of the area and was super nice to the kids, and she brought SNACKS! Overall - I would highly recommend Blue Ridge in general, and Melissa specifically! This was a high point of our trip for sure.

Bethany Selleck

Wow amazing adventure on AT and LOVE everything Blue Ridge Hiking stands for!!! We just returned a week ago from a 3 day private guided backpacking trip. Meredith was one of the BEST guides I have ever had!!! She was so in touch with what our group needed and handled any challenge we faced or supplies we needed with ease. The spring wildflowers, the views, the comfortable temps, the gear, the food was all top notch and best of all the time in the woods was unreal how beautiful it was around ever corner! This was truly an unforgettable trip it was such a needed disconnect from phones/emails etc. and a re-connect with myself and nature. I’m so grateful for this trip and time away thank you for providing such a great experience can’t wait to hopefully return again soon!

Ranjan Mohapatra

Just back from a fantastic hike experience provided by Blue Ridge Co. ! They customized trip for me - Black mountain camp till Mt. Mitchell, and back same day. Was bit intense for a day hike, but the guide Jennifer Gift was skillful & encouraging company all along. Was fun to hear stories on the Triple crown trails. Will be one of most cherished travels for me :) @Jenn G - Thanks much! Good luck on your upcoming Continental Divide Hike! Way to go....

Tara Kram

Blue Ridge is the gold standard of hiking companies. They were organized, professional, friendly, empowering, and knowledgeable. Our guide was Meredith and she was the icing on the cake when it came to perfecting our trip. She added a fun dynamic and a wealth of plant knowledge. We made memories that will go down in history, challenged ourselves beyond our comfort zones, and created lifelong friendships. Thank you Blue Ridge for giving us the best hiking experience on the AT from Max Patch to Hot Springs.

Andrea Ibarra

This is my second time at Blue Ridge Hiking Company and I love it so much ! They offer such a great service , my guide this time was Kacie , she was great very concern about all our needs as a group she really took care of us and did the best to make this trip unique ! I'll be back for sure !

Avri B

My wife and I took our 8 yo and 6 yo hiking with Lauren Smucker. She couldn’t have been friendlier or more knowledgeable… Lauren knew ahead of time that our family loves waterfalls and tailored our hike accordingly by leading us on 3 mellow hikes to 3 of the most beautiful water falls Western NC has to offer . Overall she was a great guide and we were very impressed by how smoothly the whole experience was with BRHC.

Family Fogel

We finished a three day hike from Max Patch to Hot Springs and it exceeded our expectations! Lindsey was exceptional in helping us plan the logistics of our trip. Mindy was an outstanding, humorous host at the bunkhouse - providing an extremely clean and well organized environment prior to and after our trip! Meredith was the perfect guide. She was very knowledgeable, warm, friendly, humorous, and able to read and accommodate the needs of our group. All the details were taken care of and we completely felt like we were in amazing, capable hands. We would definitely book another trip and couldn't see us with anyone but Meredith as our guide, although, with how amazing every staff member has been, we are certain the other guides are probably just as capable:)

Beth Cuzzone

I highly recommend requesting Carolyn as your guide and Blue Ridge Hiking generally. Our hike started long before we hit the trail. Our guide Carolyn had great advice and communication before the trip. On the trail, Carolyn struck the perfect balance. She showed us lots of hacks, tips and shared her abundance of knowledge or have us time to enjoy and learn on our own. Carolyn planned and made delicious meals for our group too. She also captures amazing footage during the trip and shared it post hike. Thank you Carolyn and the BRH team. !!!!

Trevor.Kelly Nunn

Kacie & Jenna were fabulous hiking guides for our bachelorette party of 15! They accommodated every level of hiker and made everyone feel welcome. Thanks for such a positive and memorable experience!

Scott Kantor

My wife and I recently hiked with Alexa and we had the greatest time. I have a dietary restriction and she came with specific snacks for me. We needed to be picked up from our hotel and the were very accommodating and timely. We explained our skill level and what we wanted to do and see and we got exactly that. Alexa was a safe, knowledgeable and super friendly. We hiked up a 6,000 portion of the mountains and had a spectacular view. We also saw a beautiful water fall. In between we drove the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway and learned the history of the area. I highly recommend them and Alexa. Thanks!

Daniel Alexander

Our group of six guys had an amazing time from our home base at the Appalachian “trail-er” of the Blue Ridge Hoking Company team. The “trailer” was much more than a trailer with beds more comfortable than my own house! Mere steps to numerous hikes, this was a great spot to enjoy a weekend together.

Hannah Hackett

Choosing the Blue Ridge Hiking Company was the best decision I could have made for my first hiking experience with my mother! Our hike with our AMAZING guide Christine was wonderful. We enjoyed great scenery, learned about historical landmarks, and encountered numerous plant species such as beautiful purple fringed orchids! I highly recommend the Blue Ridge Hiking Company for all family occasions and vacations!

ellie

I had a amazing experience hiking with the Blue Ridge Hiking Company in July! The guides made my groups time on the trails the best and listened to our preferences and altered our trip accordingly! My group enjoyed the 10 mile challenge hike along the Appalachian Trail the most! We were a group new to hiking and felt safe and challenged with the trails due to the caring staff! I would definitely say hiking with the blue ridge hiking company was the highlight of my summer! I could not recommend them enough!!

Eric Smith

I can always count on Blue Ridge Hiking Company for great ideas for hikes and connecting me with an experienced and knowledgeable guide. This trip Heidi Nisbett took me on a hike on Black Balsam Knob High Loop just off the blue ridge parkway. She was great, the hike was great and the views were awesome. Look forward to the next trip to Asheville and using Blue Ridge Hiking Company to line me up with the perfect hike and connect me with a great guide like Heidi. Eric from Michigan

Elisabeth Alderden

My husband did his AT hike in 2019. We both read Jennifer's book, Becoming Odessa (excellent). We'd hoped to get to see her and knew it was not a high probability. We found a map of the Foothills Trail in the store, which is difficult to find for some reason. My husband wants to hike that soon. We also bought some really cool stickers 😎. We are going back and picking up some of the hiking books they had in store. The girl working yesterday was super nice and answered our questions.

Christine Gleason

I booked the 3-day 20-mile women’s backpacking trip on the Appalachian Trail and I’m so, so glad that I did! Our guide, Lexi was amazing; the food and gear options from BRHC were great, and the three other women on the trip were excellent company. This made the leap from day hiking to backpacking as seamless and could be. Highly recommend!

Jennifer Dahme

Our guide, Lindsey Barr, was great! She took our interests and needs into account when selecting the perfect half day hike for my family. She recommended a hike at Graveyard Fields and to the waterfalls. The hike was great, and she provided us with information along the way that we wouldn't have found in a guidebook or map. My shy and introverted fourteen year old daughter felt comfortable with Lindsey and was interested in the information she imparted. Overall, the hike was a great success, and I wholeheartedly recommend Blue Ridge Hiking Company and their guide, Lindsey.

Katrina Verlinde

Couldn't recommend Blue Ridge Hiking Co more highly! Their mission is inspiring and they provide amazing services to support it. The equipment and supplies provided by the company were excellent, and Christine (our guide) was fully prepared to handle any challenges that came up. She was also very knowledgeable and would often point out interesting plants and wildlife along the trail. She made sure to walk us through each procedure--rather than doing everything for us--so that, by the end of the five-day trip, I felt informed and empowered to attempt a backpacking trip on my own. It was an incredible learning experience and tons of fun for our 10-member group. And, of course, the mountains themselves were stunning! If you want to get into backpacking or hiking but don't know where to begin (or if you're looking for adventure on the Appalachian Trail without worrying about the logistics), I would absolutely recommend Blue Ridge Hiking Company.

Joseph Carpenter

My partner and I had a wonderful 3 day, 2 night guided trip with Mindy from Blue Ridge. Great experience, very professional, very personable. Mindy & the team had all the right gear for easy, straightforward rent--great for out of towners like us who just wanted to come in, hike, and fly out. Thanks Blue Ridge!

Robin Riggs

My friend and I attended a 3-day/2-night backpacking trip with Blue Ridge Hiking Company. It my first backpacking experience, and it was fantastic! The gear they provided was great and lightweight. Our guide Matt was fun, capable, and very experienced. This experience taught me a lot about how to properly backpack, and I look forward to more adventures with them in the future.

Lisa Rogers

We had a terrific day hiking Mount Mitchell with Eli. He was a great guide...pointing out local flora and fauna that was interesting to us. The pace was perfect. The lunch provided hit the spot and gave us energy during the challenging hike. Appreciated the accommodation of nut allergy. We had a lot of laughs along the way. Wonderful experience!!

Grant Foley

Was an amazing hike with Maria! She took us to Graveyard field and Black Balsam Knob. We saw two different waterfalls, beautiful mountains and wild flowers. The hike would have been confusing for us since we are not from the area, but Maria made it super easy and pointed out different types of plants and animals and showed us everything we wanted to see! Really glad we did this hike and booked Maria. She was great to spend the day with! Would do this again when we come back.

Katie Petronio

My boyfriend, Norm, and I thoroughly enjoyed our first visit to Asheville this past week! Prior to our visit, we did a ton of research to learn about all of the activities and must do/see in the area. We came across Blue Ridge Hiking Company. After doing our own research, we called and spoke with Lindsay to learn about our different options. She was extremely friendly and, after speaking with her, we decided to sign up for a private morning half-day hike. We filled out some information about what we were hoping to see and Lindsay took it from there. The day leading up to the hike, she reached out with some options and information on what to bring for the day. We decided to hike DuPont State Park and she tailored the hike to our level and interest. We saw some amazing waterfalls, beautiful forests, and learned about some of the nature and wildlife along the way. Thank you so much for being such an awesome guide, Lindsay!

Dawn Reimer

Mel G. was our guide. She had an amazing knowledge of the plants around us. We did a half day morning hike around Max’s patch. It was great day filled with adventure.

Matthew Kinman

This company deserves ten stars! You will not be disappointed by their guided tours. Your hike will be customized to your liking and the guide will make it a safe and memorable trip! Great for families with kids, everyone comes away better prepared and excited for the next adventure! Don't expect their shop to have a wide variety of each type of gear... But what they do have are carefully curated and proven items from quality businesses. What's not to love!?

Stephanie Silverman

We had an amazing 3 days with Blue Ridge Hiking Company! True professionals who planned, re-planned (COVID), and pivoted where needed (read: RAIN!) - truly an outstanding experience. Our guides, Lindsey and Melissa, made this experience truly outstanding.

Christopher Nolan

Bev, our guide, was fantastic! She brought us to several hiking spots which were well suited to our fitness levels and interests in the local area. The store also has some good clothing and footwear options in case you forgot to pack some essentials for the hike!

Trina Logsdon

Very knowledgeable about the area, various terrains, elevation gains, native plants & Trees. This is my 2nd 1/2 day hike booked with BRHCo & certainly not the last! Thanks Eli for being a wonderful guide and making our hike exceptional & memorable! Highly recommended this hiking company!

Mariah Gunther

I love Blue Ridge Hiking Company. Not only are their guided hikes fun, educational and memorable, their guides are very knowledgeable and accommodating. BUT what many people don't know is that they have a STORE!! They have everything you could possibly need to make your hiking trip comfortable and fun. Conveniently located in downtown Asheville they have the best gear. They even sell local gifts (earrings, prints, art; toys for the kiddos) along with helpful guide/trail books. I have purchased a sleeping bag and other gear here and will definitely return for more!

Machell Apple

I hiked 2 half day hikes with Bev MacDowell. She was very knowledgeable about the trails as well as many flowers. Each day she had chosen amazing lunch spots. She also had healthy snacks and dark chocolate when you needed that little extra boost! I was really nervous about my hiking ability. Bev's encouragement gave me the confidence that I needed to complete the hikes. 5 stars are just not enough to rank Bev and Blue Ridge Hiking Company.

Moin EKVG

The beginner's overnight backpacking and camping trip was outstanding. It was my first time. Our wonderful guide Lexie Lanfrank walked us through the basics, helped out with all things: packing, food prep, tent setup and dismantling, and much more. Lexie was professional, courteous and patient throughout. Hat tip to Lexie and BRHC.

Linda Simpson

A special thank you to our guide Lexie Lanfrank for teaching me the skills and giving me the confidence I need to head out on my own in the backcountry. I highly recommend Blue Ridge Hiking Company

Samantha Frost

It was perfect! We are novice hikers unfamiliar with the area. The guide called in advance to discuss our experience and physical fitness; she chose a hike that was very appropriate for us and ended in a beautiful waterfall. Would recommend and do again.

beth holiman

Exceptional service! My friends and I made reservations at the Trail-Er along with some shuttle reservations. The staff couldn’t have been more helpful. It was reassuring to have booked shuttles with a reputable company knowing our ride would be there when needed. Haley was the best shuttle driver and host at the Trail-Er! She was so knowledgeable and helpful along with being such a joy to be around. When our plans were getting complicated she even came through at the last minute with some better suggestions! We were blessed to have her as our host! The stay at the Trail-Er was top notch. Clean, cozy and comfortable. Would definitely stay again. 😊

Michele Thomas

Wonderful day hiking to John's Rock in Pisgah National Forest! Blue Ridge Hiking Co's - Lauren Smucker is a "must-book"...her hiking experience and commitment to preserving our forests are inspiring. My family enjoyed the 6 mile workout climbing up into the mountains near Asheville...and, learning along the way.

Mattie Sorrow

My family had an excellent experience with the Blue Ridge Hiking Co. My daughter wanted to hike 13 miles for her 13th birthday, and BRHC did a great job!! Our guide Lauren was very experienced and professional. She made sure every detail of the hike was planned out. We highly recommend Lauren as a guide!! Thank you for making Caylie's 13th Birthday so special!!!

Lynette Rao

Tanner was an awesome guide for our backpacking 101 group. Very informative and patient

Donna Murphy

This was my first backpacking hike and I have to say that I felt well cared for with BRHC. They were organized, prepared and knowledgeable. They helped me prepare as well since I had no idea what I was doing! Emma, our guide, was so patient with our pace and campsite set up issues. She was the best! Many laughs and great snacks shared along the way. I highly recommend this experience:)

Patricia Schuring

This was our first guided hike and it was fabulous!! Very relaxing to be worry-free while hiking the Graveyard Fields on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Although weather was questionable for the scheduled morning hike, our guide Christine contacted us the night before to prepare us. With rain gear in tow we lucked out and had a beautiful morning. No need to be concerned about wild life/plants, snacks, or weather. Our guide, Christine had all the knowledge to assure us a successful hike.

Elizabeth Crandall

Lauren took us on a wonderful hike in Dupont State Forest. We asked for a somewhat more challenging half day hike and she delivered with a great loop, big rock and cedar trails. Lauren was a great guide, knowledgeable about the area and pleasant to be with.

Kaitlyn Osteen

Our guide Jenn was the absolute BEST. She gave us options for hikes and helped us pick a trail that suited our skill level and gave us exactly what we wanted- a truly amazing view! This hike was the highlight of our trip and Jenn was the reason why! Highly recommend Jenn and blue ridge hiking!

Stephen Paskoff

My son and I completed a three day customized hike led by our guide, Eli Manning. The Company expertly set up the the trip and cooridnated all of the logistics. We are glad we chose BRHC and hope to take other hikes and trips with BRHC in the future. I have taken many outdoor trips --hiking and biking in the U.S. and in Europe. Eli was the best guide I and my son have ever had --he was knowledgeable, friendly, did everything to make us enjoy the experience and tailor to our needs in general and in the moment. This made all the difference --BRHC will be our touring Company going forward and our first choice as a guide for any trip the Company offers will be Eli.

Mike Terry

I did the 3 day applachian trail hike and had a blast! Our guide Jackie was awesome, she taught us many cool plant species and was very motivating and kind. She also woke up really early each morning to make sure that everyone had fresh water for the day. Anyways, she was a great guide and I recommend going on this backpacking trip.

Elín Jónsdóttir

We had three amazing days on the AT with our guide Emma from the Blue Ridge Hiking Company. She was a wonderful guide; knowledgable, capable and simply a very nice person to be with. Her skill and experience of the outdoors saved us from trouble when we were caught in very heavy NC rain, that we are unused to in our home country. Before going we were not sure if we needed a guide, but it saved us a lot of planning and arrangements, plus added a lot to our trip. Thanks!

Libby McClayton

I highly recommend Blue Ridge High Ridge Company! I signed up for a low intensity hike at Catawba Falls (about 2.5 miles).Emma was my guide and she was spectacular. She was super nice and knowledgeable about the trail itself, the plants and wildlife around. We finished the hike ahead of schedule, so Emma took us to Montreat and we did the Lookout too :). I didn't have a car so it was very convenient that the company provided transportation from their downtown shop as well as snacks and things you may need to borrow on the hike i.e. an umbrella, a walking stick, etc :). Next time I'm in Asheville I will definitely go on another hike with Blue Ridge Hiking Company!

a alan skrzypczak

I wanted to take my first overnight backpacking trip and BRHC did not disappoint! Our guide John Hafner was a experienced, helpful and knowledgeable. When we arrived at the Trail-er in Hot Springs Haley checked us in and John conducted a thorough pre-hike gear evaluation. It was a treat learning about the Appalachian trail history, the plants and trees we found along the way, and being respectful of your surroundings and of course I learned a lot about backpacking. The fellow hikers were also a great bunch and added to the adventure. I had a enjoyable experience and recommend BRHC would not hesitate to book another hike with them. Thanks John and Haley (and the other hikers), your have given me the tools and confidence to start my hike in 2020! I can do this!

Jennifer Land

We hiked with Emma for the half-day Saturday tour as a group of four girls. Emma was personable, knowledgable, extremely friendly, and both an excellent hiker and professional when it comes to balancing the needs of the group and the hopes each person has for the day. We saw the Blue Ridge Parkway, waterfalls, picked blueberries, and learned so much about the plants, nature, history, and beauty of the area - nothing that I would have been able to gain going alone. She cares about each person in the group and goes above and beyond to care for them the entire day. ALSO - SNACKS, so the hike is definitely a must ;) Thank you Emma for an amazing day!

Baris Deniz

I did a 3 day/2night backpacking trip with Blue Ridge at the Smokies. Such a wonderful experience it was! They provided all the essentials, helped us enjoy the nature through well planned days. Francisco -our guide- was extremely helpful with every possible thing I can think of. Not only was he very present and engaged the whole time, he was super knowledgeable about the trail, history of this particular trail and backpacking in general, dendrology, gears, etc...You can tell he does not do this as a "job", but he is in love with everything about it. And he shares his love of outdoors with everybody. The whole experience exceeded all my expectations and made me plan my next trip out in the woods. Wonderful people and great company! I will be definitely be back! Baris

Shuah Roskies

We had a stunning three day trip along a section of the Appalachian Trail. I cannot say enough good things about our guide, Christine, and about Blue Ridge Hiking Company. They are amazing. Christine took us through a breathtaking section of the Blue Ridge Mountains, from Hot Springs to Max Patch. I'd go back there - with this company - in a heartbeat. Christine planned out the trip so carefully, and her whole approach to the mountains - leaving no trace; understanding the flora and fauna; allowing us to identify the pace but ensuring that the journey challenged us (without getting to breaking point); teaching us about camping in the mountains - if you want a guide who is very smart, generous, and most importantly, loves the land and who will imbibe you with the same spirit, she is your gal. We will be going back as soon as we can. Did I say that enough times? It was that good. BTW, you can rent TERRIFIC gear from them - don't bother lugging yours down, because the lightweight, warm, ingeniously designed selection that they offer as part of the trip planning is better than yours. Trust us.

Susan Solberg

My daughter and I had a wonderful time hiking from Max Patch to Hot Springs this weekend as an early celebration of my 65th birthday. As a beginner hiker who is up there in years :) , I was a little nervous at first but our guide, Christine Martens, immediately made me feel confident about my ability to conquer all the challenges ahead. We learned so much about plants and gear and outdoor living from Christine — and we had a great time doing it. The adventure was all I’d hoped it would be...and I’m ready for more hiking soon!

Jennifer Marjay

Our hike with Jenn Gift (One day) was absolutely amazing ! She was very knowledge, kind , caring and responsive to our needs . She was also very helpful with the need for social distancing during this time and picked fabulous hikes that weren’t terribly crowded . We hiked graveyard fields and got to see the lower and upper falls . We had a wonderful break at upper falls and Jenn provided us with very tasty healthy snacks ! We then went on to pink beds and had an energy packed lunch before hiking a portion of the pink bed loop . When it was time to leave Jenn was very helpful in leading the way out as I was not very familiar with Navigating this area . We stopped at an amazing over look before we parted ways. I truly hope to cross paths with this amazing woman again at some point in my life . Jenn was truly a gift to us that day !

Gabriela Quiroga

I booked a short hike on a weekend that ended up being super rainy: our guide contacted me in advance to suggest a change of day for the hike. Even that day the rain didn't let us go to the originally planned place and he already had a plan B that turned out great: our super fantastic guide John was patient and really kid friendly, bot my 13 and (especially) my 10yo loved hearing all about plants and animals of the area! Also, they told me to note the snack he brought along to share with us was the BEST, lol. I would recommend this company to anyone who wants to get to know NC trails.

Carla Johnson

Thanks BRHC for allowing us to reschedule a planned day hike due to rain. Our fabulous guide, Bev, called in advance to discuss what we were hoping to experience. Because rain was a growing concern, even for our rescheduled day, Bev not only had a plan A, but a Plan B and C as well! We settled on Black Balsam Knob, Sam Knob, and Tennant Mountain. We’re so glad we did. Wow! Even though there was a lot of fog and cloud cover as we ascended, it was breathtaking! Added bonus: Graveyard Fields Falls. At the end of an amazing day, we felt like we had spent it with a friend. Thanks Bev!

Anna Rose Bourne

Our 4 day overnight trip in Pisgah National Forest and Shining Rock Wilderness was truly a mountain top experience. Our guide was the best and made us feel well prepared to spend the night in the woods. From the gear, to the service and the views, I highly recommend Blue Ridge Hiking Company!

Emma Houston

Blue Ridge Hiking Company's retail location in downtown Asheville has the best selection of lightweight and ultralight hiking and backpacking gear I've ever found in an outdoor retailer. Their curated selection of cottage brand industry products covers everything you would need to outfit yourself for an overnight trip. I was particularly excited to see that they carry Western Mountaineering, Gossamer Gear, ULA, Six Moon Designs and Astral.

Michelle T

What a great weekend! Tara Dower was awesome providing us with answers to all of our questions about cooking, hiking and camping as we made our way from Max Patch to Hot Springs. I am grateful for the opportunity to be among a wonderful group of women with the same adventurous curiosity🏕! I would highly recommend Blue Ridge Hiking Company🤗

mike bryden

My husband and I went on an all day hike with John Haffner, from Blue Ridge Hiking Co. in Asheville N.C., on October 15th when fall colors were still developing and patchy, at best. We were also unfamiliar with the entire Blue Ridge area and didn't know what hikes would be best to do seeing we had a limited amount of time. John picked out two outstanding hikes, totaling about 8 miles ( Graveyard Fields, Black Balsam/Tennant Mountains) and assured us these would also present really good color change. We were not disappointed! John was so experienced, knowledgeable, friendly, and most importantly, attentive to our abilities and needs along the hike. John picked up on our interests in the plants and trees and history of area and focused on those areas with an abundance of knowledge gained through his education and extensive hiking background. John provided us with safe hiking tips and was patient with our pace, as some of the hike was somewhat difficult. John provided a really good lunch and snacks along the way, and the lunch break was in a really beautiful spot. John made us feel as if we were hiking with our best friend. Near the end, John showed us how to filter water and safely drink from it which we all did and it was really good. We highly recommend Blue Ridge Hiking Company for a unforgettable hiking experience. We would also like to thank John for making an all day hike a memory for a lifetime-Thank you John! Mike & Nancy

Diane S

Had an amazing weekend get away with other like minded women. Our guide Jenn "On Day" Gift was awesome. She was inspirational, funny, and loved to share her stories and life on the trail. The weekend filled my heart, soul, and I made new friendships. Thank you for helping me reach a dream/goal of mine!

Tim Davis

My two 10 year old sons and I just completed a 4 day, 3 night trip with our guide Matt along through the Pisgah Forest hitting several peaks along the way. This was our first time backpacking and couldn't have asked for a better experience. Matt was a great teacher and was very good with the barrage of questions that come from 10 year olds. The route was challenging for us flatlanders, but excellent. I highly recommend booking with BRHC.

Kathy Bostrom

John Haffner drove and guided my husband and I, and he was excellent! He was interesting, patient, knowledgeable and fun to be with. We knew very little about the trails and are (at least, I am) fairly inexperienced hikers. Without John, we never would have found or made it to both the Lower and Upper Falls of Graveyard Fields. It was a day and money well spent, and we hope to be back to hike with him again!

Dawn Grabowski

Keith was great. He picked us up right on time. The waterfalls were beautiful as well as the drive to them. We got some great exercise and pictures. He was able to provide less difficult options to one person who wouldn't have been able to deal with the steps and inclines. They were still able to see the waterfalls but just at a different area

Lauren Matuszkiewicz

I went on a five-day long backpacking trip with seven other college aged girls. None of us were really experienced with the backpacking experience, but our guide Lindsey Barr was very good at reading everyone's emotions and taking breaks during our trip when the whole group really needed them. She was there to help any bruises or blisters that were occurring and she went out of her way to make sure everyone felt comfortable. I will remember this trip for the rest of my life and it will always be a positive experience!

Andrea P. Arguelles

We could not have asked for a better guide than Christine. Both her and Blue Ridge really went above and beyond to make our 5 day women in engineering hiking trip a memorable experience! Excited to take on the wilderness myself now with everything we learned.

Susan Brady

I cannot say enough about how wonderful our experience was with Blue Ridge Hiking! They really did make a dream come true. Lindsey and Haley were both exceptional in their experience and ability to make us comfortable--and Lindsey as a guide provided a perfect balance of instruction and challenge.

Mala Mahadevan

We wanted to go to this spot and asked if they would take us. They didn't have a permit but worked on it and got one in 3 days!! Our tour guide Andrea was amazing-kind,funny,very knowledgable of the area. She even went to great lengths to get us a vegetarian lunch with all kinds of cool snacks thrown in. We went on 3 different hikes including one to the very top. Had a ton of fun. Absolutely recommend the company and Andrea's services.

Nigel James

Had a great guided hike after our CSIA conference. Christine was very knowledgeable of the biodiversity in the area and we talked a lot about gear. Their customer service was awesome and would highly recommend them. We booked again for a private tour Sunday to continue enjoying the beauty in the area.

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