Frequently Asked Questions
Check here for FAQs about our trip offerings. If your question isn't answered
here, contact us via email or phone (828-713-5451) and we're happy to help!
Day Hikes
What do I need to bring on a day hike?
Please wear comfortable trail shoes (sneakers and running shoes are great; you do not have to wear heavy hiking boots). We ask that you bring a rain jacket and extra layers, as well as one liter of water per person for half day hikes and two liters of water per person for a full day hike. You are encouraged to bring a day pack if you have one. If you need to borrow a daypack, trekking poles, or hiking umbrella for your hike, please let your guide or the admin team know ahead of time. It is very important that you bring any personal medications that you might need on the trail, such as an inhaler or epi-pen.
Where do we meet?
The guide will meet you at our downtown retail location, 70 College Street, Asheville, NC 28801. From there you will follow your guide to the trailhead in your own vehicle. If you prefer to meet at an alternate location, please let your guide know ahead of time! We do not recommend meeting at trailheads (because of limited cell phone coverage), but are happy to meet at your hotel or another convenient location.
What if it's raining?
We hike in all kinds of weather - including rain and snow. If Blue Ridge Hiking Company deems the conditions unsafe for hiking or driving (e.g. flooding, lightning, ice) then we will cancel the trip and provide a full refund or allow you to reschedule the trip at your convenience.
What if I need transportation?
We are able to provide transportation for an additional fee if our shuttle vehicle is available. Please call (828) 713-5451 for more information.
If I have a special need or health condition, can I still hike?
Absolutely! We have worked with blind, deaf, and mobility impaired individuals. We recommend booking a private hike, so we can customize the trip and distance to meet your needs.
Can I bring my pet?
We are happy to welcome well-behaved dogs to join on our Private Day Hikes! Dogs must be kept on a 6' leash at all times during the hike, and owners are expected to pack out any pet waste. Please notify your guide ahead of time if you have a pet that will be joining your hike.
What is your cancellation policy?
For all Day Hikes, the trip cost includes a 15% non-refundable administrative fee. Hikes may be cancelled up to 1 week before the trip for a refund (minus the 15% fee). Within 1 week, a 50% refund will be offered. Within 48 hours, a refund will only be offered if Blue Ridge Hiking Company cancels the trip due to severe weather.
How long are the hikes?
Half Day Hikes are approximately 3-4 hours on trail. They range in distance from 2 to 5 miles and range in difficulty from easy to strenuous.
Full Day Hikes are approximately 6-8 hours on trail. They range in distance from 5 to 10 miles and range in difficulty from easy to strenuous.
How far away are the hikes?
Our hikes are anywhere from 20 minutes to just over an hour's drive from Asheville.
Do I tip my guide?
If your guide does an outstanding job then you are encouraged to show your appreciation with a tip.
Backpacking Trips
I don't have any gear. Is that a problem?
Blue Ridge Hiking Company can provide tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, and trekking poles. We also pack group gear such as water filters, camp stoves, cookware, rope, maps and a compass. Hikers are responsible for bringing all personal items mentioned in the General Information PDF.
Blue Ridge Hiking Company can provide tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and backpacks. We also pack group gear such as water filters, camp stoves, cookware, rope, maps and a compass. Hikers are responsible for bringing all personal items mentioned in the General Information PDF.
How many miles will we hike each day?
Private Groups can easily customize their mileage to fit their needs. We work with all body types and levels of experience. The group trips usually cover 6-12 miles per day over moderate terrain. We offer beginner group trips with lower mileage and intermediate to advanced group trips with higher daily mileage.
Do I have to have a certain level of fitness to participate?
In order to hike in the mountains and carry a backpack, you should be able to walk several miles through your neighborhood without taking a break. Our trips can cover rugged or hilly terrain that may be more difficult than a walk or hike that has minimal elevation change. The majority of our trips are suitable for beginner to intermediate hikers.
What can I do to get in shape?
Simply taking a walk wearing a backpack with some weight in it can help out quite a bit. Coming from a flat area and concerned about elevation gain and loss? Try climbing up and down stairs with a weighted backpack.
What about food?
Blue Ridge Hiking Company provides ample food on our overnight trips. We offer a wide array of standard backpacking food including dehydrated dinners, dried fruits, nuts, granola bars, and oatmeal. We like to throw some fresh fruits and veggies in the pack for snacks and there is always a treat for after dinner. And yes, we pack instant coffee for breakfast. Please let us know of dietary restrictions and preferences in advance. We are happy to accommodate when possible.
What if I'm still not sure what to pack?
Before each Blue Ridge Hiking Company overnight the guide offers a "shakedown" to make sure you have all the necessary items in your pack. They may recommend that you leave any unnecessary personal items behind. Carrying too much weight in your backpack can increase your risk of injury. The General Information PDF offers a comprehensive packing list.
Do I tip my guide?
If your guide does an outstanding job then you are encouraged to show your appreciation with a tip.
What is your cancellation policy for overnight trips?
The trip costs includes a 15% non-refundable administrative fee. Hikes may be cancelled up to 2 weeks before the trip for a refund (minus the 15% fee). Within 2 weeks, a 50% refund will be offered. Within 48 hours, a refund will only be offered if Blue Ridge Hiking Company cancels the trip due to severe weather.
What happens if it rains?
We hike rain or shine! Sometimes, thunderstorms, ice, snow, or extreme cold may be considered severe weather. In these circumstances, we may change trip itinerary or cancel the trip.
Bunkhouse
How many bunks are there?
We have 10 bunks total. There are two rooms - one room with 6 bunks, the other with 4.
How many bathrooms do you have?
We have two full bathrooms with showers.
Do you have running water, electricity, etc?
Yes! Although we're a hiker bunkhouse, we have all the usual amenities like running water, electricity, even hot showers and air conditioning. Bunkhouse guests also have access to our kitchen and living room to relax after a long day on the trail.
Is it possible to do laundry at your facility?
We may be able to do laundry for you (depending on our cleaning schedule and your timing), for $5 per load.
Can we get a shuttle from your bunkhouse?
Yes, we offer shuttles and gear rentals. Our bunkhouse is located right on the Appalachian Trail, and folks often take a shuttle further down the trail and then walk back to the bunkhouse.
Do the bunks come with linens? What about towels?
We provide linens and towels. No need to use your sleeping bag unless you really want to!
What are the quiet hours?
9:30PM - 6:30PM
Shuttles
What is your maximum capacity?
Our shuttle can carry a maximum of 6 passengers. If you have a lot of gear with you, that number may be smaller.
Do you offer shuttles year round?
We do offer shuttles year round, weather dependent.
Are pets allowed on the shuttle?
Pets are not allowed on our shuttle. Only well behaved service animals on leash are allowed on Blue Ridge Hiking Company outings.
How do I make a reservation?
You are welcome to book online, or give us a call at 828-713-5451.
Should I tip my shuttle driver?
If the shuttle driver does an outstanding job, you are welcome to show you appreciation with a tip.
How far in advance do I need to make a reservation?
The earlier the better! We occasionally can offer last minute shuttle services, but in order to maximize your chance of availability, booking several weeks or even months in advance is encouraged.
Rental Gear
What kinds of rental gear do you have available?
We rent backpacks, sleeping bags with liners, sleeping pads, tents, trekking poles, cooksets (stove, pot, cups, utensils), and water filters. We do not rent maps, fuel, or first aid kits (all are available for sale at the Trail-er). We also have meal packages available for gear rentals with advanced reservations.
What happens if gear is damaged while I'm using it?
We expect some wear and tear on gear while its being used. If gear is damaged beyond normal wear and tear or not returned, a replacement charge may be issued. More information about replacement cost is available upon request.
How heavy is the gear going to be?
Depending on how much personal gear and clothing you have, your pack may weigh around 25-35 lbs.
Where do I pick the rental gear up?
We rent most of our gear out of our Bunkhouse in Hot Springs, NC. Please let us know if you'd like to arrange to pick up your gear elsewhere. This can be arranged for an additional fee.
Do you rent Bear Canisters?
Yes. We rent Bear Vault BV500. These are required for several sections of trail in Western NC.
Do you rent Emergency Locator Beacons?
Yes, we can rent you a SPOT which has an SOS button. You are responsible for any fees incurred from using the SOS or Helping Hands functionality.
Is it OK if I bring the gear back muddy?
We clean all gear between each use. If gear is returned exceptionally dirty, an additional cleaning fee may be required.
Besides renting gear, do you also offer shuttles?
Yes! Give us a call to arrange a pick-up!