Cradle of Forestry In America Heritage Site


Area Status: Closed
Paved trail at the Cradle of Forestry

Nestled below the Blue Ridge Parkway on the Pisgah National Forest is the birthplace of forestry in America - the Cradle of Forestry.

The Cradle abounds with ways to have fun while learning about the forest, traditional Blue Ridge culture, and forest management.

Paved trails - perfect for strollers and wheelchairs - put the forest at your fingertips.

Check out the brochure.

At a Glance

Current Conditions: The Cradle of Forestry remains open but for the remainder of the 2021 season, we will be renovating the roof, which may impact your experience. Renovations will NOT be held on weekends. Thank you for your patience as we work to beautify this amazing historic gem! For more information call (828) 877-3130 or email Cradle@GoFindOutdoors.org
Operational Hours: Operational Hours for 2021 are Wed-Mon through November 21
10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Area Amenities: Interpretive Site,Accessible,Fee charged for some activities,Toilets,Drinking water,Parking
Fees:
  • $6.00 regular admission
  • $3.00 youth admission (ages 5 to 12)
  • Free for children age 4 and under
  • Half price for America the Beautiful annual and lifetime passholders and up to three guests.
  • *FREE for Friends of the Cradle of Forestry and 4th Grade Every Kid in a Park passes
*Exceptions to general admission are for some special events such as: In Search of Blue Ghosts Firefly Tours, Songcatchers Music Series, and The Legend of Tommy Hodges.
Open Season: April 9 - November 8
Operated By: FIND Outdoors

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Mountain Biking

Recreation areas with activity Mountain Biking:

Visitor Programs

Recreation areas with activity Visitor Programs:

Interpretive Areas

Recreation areas with activity Interpretive Areas:

Visitor Centers

Recreation areas with activity Visitor Centers:

The Cradle of Forestry offers hands-on learning experiences in a forest environment.

Explore the Forest Discovery Center, join guided activities or go outside and walk the Biltmore Campus, Forest Festival or Discovery trails.

Picnicking

Recreation areas with activity Picnicking:

Amenities

Interpretive Site:
Fee charged for some activities:
Parking:
Toilets:
Accessible:
Drinking water:

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Latitude : 
35.350401

  Longitude : 
-82.778501