Discover Swannanoa

Swannanoa combines outdoor experiences with insights into the town’s history. The Swannanoa River, trails in the wooded surroundings, and reminders of the area’s former industry add different dimensions to a stay. You can tailor your trip to your group’s interests—whether spending time outdoors, visiting a farm, or exploring Swannanoa’s history.

Trails, River, and Fishing Ponds

Charles D. Owen Park is located on the Swannanoa River and includes two large fishing ponds. Together with the river, they give the park its connection to nature. If you enjoy fishing, you can make the ponds a focus of your stay; if you prefer exploring on foot, you’ll find the “Figure Eight” trail there.

“Figure Eight” is 1 mile long. This clearly stated distance can help you fit a visit to the park into your daily plans. Other trails for exploring include the River, Jones Mountain, and Dam Pasture trails. Visitors can explore these trails between sunrise and sunset. If you’re planning a hike, keep this time window in mind and choose trails based on your interests. The area around Swannanoa also features scenic routes, lush forests, and the tranquil Swannanoa River—just the thing for a trip focused on hiking, fishing, and nature.

Farm Visits and Local Experiences

At the Warren Wilson College Farm, visitors can bring family members, guests, or children to see the animals. This makes a farm visit a practical way to add a shared experience to your trip. The Swannanoa Market returns for the 2026 season, offering fresh food as well as products from local vendors and artisans. If you’re interested in local produce and handmade goods, you can make the market another part of your stay.

“Groovin’ on Grovemont” is also part of the local events scene: the concert series is free to attend and takes place at Grovemont Park next to the Swannanoa Library. So, in addition to hiking and nature experiences, music and a visit to the park are other interests to consider when planning your trip.

Industrial History and Historic Buildings

Swannanoa’s history is closely tied to the former Beacon Manufacturing Company. The company operated in Swannanoa from 1924 to 2002 and was once the world’s largest blanket manufacturer. The former Beacon Mill site is now an open area next to historic homes from the former mill village. These homes are now private residences. Exploring the area, you’ll encounter both its former industrial use and traces of the residential community of that time.

Another historic building is the original Alexander Inn on Old US 70. It still stands today, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is said to be the oldest building in Buncombe County continuously occupied by the same family. The inn opened to visitors by 1820 at the latest.

Choose Swannanoa for Your Vacation

More destination pages to help plan your trip: Arden, Black Mountain, Asheville, Candler, Weaverville, Leicester.

For the broader travel overview: Buncombe.