Western North Carolina Nature Center 5.0 (reviews)

Asheville, NC Zoos & Wildlife Unclaimed

About Western North Carolina Nature Center

The Nature Center's 42 acres of award-winning habitats get you closer than you ever thought possible to the incredible wildlife of the Southern Appalachians.

Appalachian Station is an indoor exhibit that features a variety of reptiles (including rattlesnakes and copperheads), amphibians and small mammals.

Otter Falls features our North American river otters and several species of aquatic turtles.

Small Mammals includes raccoons and red and gray foxes.

Appalachian Predators is the largest area of the park, devoted to our coyotes, red and gray wolves, and bobcat.

Red Wolf Runis our exhibit on the endangered red wolves, one of our top conservation initiatives.

Black Bear Ridge features American black bears, hawks, owls and white-tailed deer.

Western North Carolina Farm features endangered farm animals, such as the Cotswold sheep, as well as chickens, rabbits, donkeys, and goats.

Trillium Nature Trail is a .6 mile nature trail winding through forested areas along the Swannanoa River.

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Adults $10.95

Children $6.95 (Ages 3-15)

Free Under 2 years

Last Update 2022

Discount Buncombe County resident discounts, plus senior discounts

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Western North Carolina Nature Center FAQ’s

Doing our bit

All plants and animals at the Nature Center are native to the southern Appalachian region. From our red wolf survival program to our rainwater catchment system, the WNC Nature Center is leading by example when it comes to conservation. These conservation programs are cornerstone to our mission to connect people with the rich biodiversity of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.

I’m Hungry! Can I get food at Western North Carolina Nature Center?

Snacks and drinks can be found in the gift shop; drink machines are also on-site.

Any top tips when visiting?

Plan your trip around the daily Animal Moments included with regular admission, two short programs each day on an animal topic, one at 11:30am and the other at 3:00pm.

Does Western North Carolina Nature Center have a gift shop?

Gifts and souvenirs can be found at the Possum's Pouch gift shop located in the entrance facility.

Teachers corner

We provide two short programs each day on an animal topic, one at 11:30am and the other at 3:00pm. Please join us for these free programs.

If you are a teacher or educator, take a look at our 2011-2012 Academic Guide for class descriptions, competency goals, and how to make reservations - http://wncnaturecenter.com/Portals/0/PDFs/Academic_Guide_2011-2012.pdf.