Your 2026 Bucket List Worthy Experiences in Hendersonville

After the ball drops—and in Hendersonville’s case, the Apple rises—the confetti drifts away, the holiday décor is packed up with care, and the calm of winter begins to settle in. With a fresh year stretching out ahead, it’s natural to pause with gratitude and think about what you hope to welcome into your life: new experiences, small moments of courage, or even a gentle reintroduction to a “new you.”

We all find ourselves daydreaming now and then, but maybe this year is the year to lean in and bring a few of those dreams to life—to finally check off the bucket-list moments you’ve been saving for “someday.”

Hendersonville offers countless ways to do just that. From running your best half-marathon on an all-downhill course, to sipping through scenic vineyards, to exploring beloved regional landmarks and wandering the many trails of WNC, each experience invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and reconnect with what matters most.

6he Jump Off Rock Half Marathon — May 9th, 2025  

Experience the thrill of running one of the most scenic half marathons in the region! The Jump Off Rock Half Marathon, hosted by iDaph Events annually each May, kicks off at the breathtaking Jump Off Rock overlook, perched 900 feet above Hendersonville’s charming Main Street.

This USATF Course Certified and chip-timed race is designed to help runners achieve their personal best time! With a mostly downhill route, you’ll enjoy an exhilarating 13.1-mile journey that’s as rewarding as it is picturesque.

The race course winds through stunning vistas, historic neighborhoods, and serene lake views, all culminating in a celebratory finish in downtown Hendersonville. After crossing the finish line, you can stroll to one of over 20 locally-owned restaurants for a well-earned meal.

Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway

There’s a quiet kind of wonder that comes with driving the Blue Ridge Parkway, a moment to be grateful for the beauty tucked into every curve. Stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, the Parkway invites travelers into a slow, steady rhythm of wide-open views, rich cultural heritage, and the quiet magic of the natural world.

The mountains’ iconic blue hue, first marveled at by the Cherokee, comes from a fascinating natural phenomenon—trees release hydrocarbons into the air that create a hazy effect, appearing blue to the human eye.

And the best time to go? Whenever you can. Spring brings tender leaves and wildflowers; summer offers deep greens, sweeping blues, and those mystical mornings when clouds hover close to the road; fall erupts in reds, yellows, oranges, and bronzes; and winter rewards you with crisp air and the longest, clearest views of the year.

As night falls, the Parkway becomes a stargazer’s paradise, with the Milky Way blazing across the sky and, in late spring, the enchanting glow of Blue Ghost Fireflies.

Explore the Crest of the Blue Ridge, A Certified Wine Region

Hendersonville and its surrounding areas are home to the Crest of the Blue Ridge American Viticulture Area (AVA), one of North Carolina’s premier wine regions. This designation is reserved for regions with exceptional soil, climate, and growing conditions that result in distinctive and high-quality wines.

The Crest of the Blue Ridge benefits from a long growing season, rocky, mineral-rich soils, and a climate of warm days and cool nights, ideal for cultivating grapes. The wines produced here tend to lean toward the dry side, but you’ll also find sweeter options to suit a range of palates.

Established in 2019, this AVA is now home to eight wineries (and counting), all of which have earned accolades for their outstanding vintages. Each winery offers a unique perspective on the terroir, giving you the chance to explore a full spectrum of flavors within a compact, easily navigable region.

If you’ve ever dreamed of tasting your way through an entire wine region, Hendersonville makes it possible in a single weekend or a leisurely weeklong getaway. With stunning mountain views, charming tasting rooms, and award-winning wines, this experience is a must for wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Visit Hundreds of Waterfalls in the Region

Forget what they say—chasing waterfalls is a bucket list adventure you won’t want to miss in Hendersonville. With its stunning collection of falls scattered throughout the mountains and forests, the region offers some of the most breathtaking spots to explore.

Start your waterfall journey at DuPont State Recreational Forest, home to the dramatic High Falls and Triple Falls, where you can hike alongside their powerful cascades. Then, head over to Pisgah National Forest to discover hidden gems like Moore Cove Falls and the iconic Looking Glass Falls, each offering a unique view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, check out the Green River Gamelands where you’ll find the serene Little Bradley Falls and the impressive Lower Big Hungry Falls. These lesser-known waterfalls provide a peaceful retreat, tucked away in the lush forest, and make for a perfect escape into nature.

Follow the rush of the water and let yourself lean into the moment. Some beauty deserves to be experienced up close.

Enjoy a meal at the Taproom at Sierra Nevada in Mills River

Each year, Yelp releases its top 100 restaurants in each state, and in 2024, one of those restaurants was located just outside Hendersonville, making it a must-visit for your bucket list when coming to Hendersonville.

Coming in at #40 in the entire Tar Heel State: the Sierra Nevada Taproom in Mills River.

Yelp’s annual list is curated based on restaurants that consistently deliver high-quality dishes, offer innovative and memorable culinary experiences, and are well-regarded in their area. The Sierra Nevada Taproom ticks all these boxes. Known for its diverse and seasonal menu that highlights local ingredients, guests can enjoy dishes like Chicken Wings, Duck Fat Fries, and wood-fired pizzas. The menu changes seasonally and incorporates many locally grown foods, including ingredients sourced from their on-site garden. The Taproom also uses their own compost produced onsite and features unique dishes that utilize the whole animal to minimize waste.

In addition to the exceptional food, diners love the vibrant atmosphere, which includes live music, stunning views, a large property to explore, and, of course, their exceptional brews and the popular brewery tour.

In October, Western North Carolina is Ablaze in Fall Color!

Fall in Hendersonville is nothing short of magical. Vibrant hues of red, gold, and orange paint the landscape, turning every hillside, forest, and overlook into a breathtaking canvas.

DuPont State Recreational Forest is a must-see, as its expansive trails and serene waterfalls are framed by an explosion of fall color. Picture yourself hiking through paths lined with fiery red maples and golden oaks.

For those who prefer a leisurely drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers unparalleled panoramic views. This scenic drive winds through some of the most vibrant foliage in the region, with countless overlooks perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the splendor of nature. Each twist and turn reveals another breathtaking perspective, making it an adventure in itself.

Go On A Guided Fishing Excursion With a Local Expert

Fly fishing in Hendersonville is a must for any outdoor enthusiast. With its pristine rivers and crystal-clear streams, this area provides the perfect backdrop for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. Whether you’re casting your line for the first time or looking to refine your technique, Hendersonville offers the ideal environment to grow your skills.

The area offers multiple options for guided sessions, many of which will show you where to go, refine your technique, and may even provide you the gear and licensing you need.

• Bloom Fly Fishing, where expert instructors provide personalized lessons tailored to your experience level. Great for a guided adventure!
• Hendersonville Outfitters offers trips to some of the area’s best fishing spots, complete with all the gear you need. For a truly memorable experience,
• Davidson River Outfitters provides guided tours along the renowned Davidson River, one of the region’s most sought-after fly-fishing destinations.
• DB Bar D Outfitters provides guided fishing access along the North Mills River, located right on their farm; they will provide all the equipment and licensing you need.
• WNC Fish Hunter guides you through hidden gems in Western North Carolina’s rivers, with great opportunities to reel in trout and musky.

Whether you’re fly fishing on well-known waters or discovering new spots, learning to fly fish in the Blue Ridge Mountains is an unforgettable experience that combines outdoor adventure with breathtaking natural beauty.

Visit the Biltmore Estate in Asheville

The Biltmore Estate is a destination that offers an extraordinary experience, seamlessly blending grand architecture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this iconic estate once served as the seasonal retreat of the wealthy Vanderbilt family. Today, it welcomes visitors from around the globe to explore its timeless beauty.

Each season brings its own unique magic to the estate. In winter, the Biltmore transforms into a holiday wonderland during Christmas at Biltmore, with exquisitely decorated rooms, twinkling lights, and festive cheer—a nod to its grand opening on Christmas Eve in 1895. Spring and summer awaken the gardens, bursting with vibrant blooms and lush greenery, inviting leisurely strolls through acres of meticulously designed landscapes. In autumn, the estate is a masterpiece of fall foliage, with shades of gold, orange, and red painting a stunning backdrop for exploration.

Whether marveling at the mansion’s architectural grandeur, wandering through its enchanting gardens, or savoring world-class wines at the Biltmore Winery, every moment here feels unforgettable. The Biltmore Estate is more than a destination—it’s an experience you’ll cherish forever.

Walk, Run or Bike the Ecusta Trail

For those who love getting outside but prefer an approachable, close-to-home adventure, the Ecusta Trail offers a beautiful way to slow down and reconnect with the landscape. This multi-use rail trail—opening in phases—follows the former rail line between Hendersonville and Brevard, creating a peaceful, scenic pathway for walkers, runners, and cyclists of all ages.

The route winds past open fields, quiet stretches of forest, and long views of the mountains. And one of its most charming qualities? It passes right by a handful of local businesses. As you make your way along the trail, be sure to stop in to shop, sip, or grab a bite—each small business adds its own flavor to the experience and brings a sense of community to your journey.

As new segments continue to open, the Ecusta Trail grows into a beloved connector—linking towns, supporting nearby shops and cafés, and offering a welcoming place to simply move, breathe, and enjoy the simple joy of being outdoors. It’s the kind of trail you’ll return to often, grateful for the quiet moments and friendly faces along the way.