Troublesome Gap Camping and Overlanding

Pack a picnic for your hike on the Max Patch (40 minutes’ drive) mountain, which has views of Mount Mitchell and the Great Smoky Mountains. Pisgah National Forest (an hour and 20 minutes) is in the same area, and another stunning spot for the keen hikers to get out, soak in the scenery and tackle a trail. Or perhaps you’re after more of an urban day out. If so, try the art galleries, art classes, concerts and shows – most of them about the local mountain culture – in Marshall (40 minutes). Historic downtown Marshall has a few intriguing spots too, including an old county courthouse. The city of Asheville (an hour) has just as strong of an arts scene, especially in its Downtown Art District, and there’s a gorgeous set of historical landmarks like the Basilica of Saint Lawrence and the 19th-century Biltmore estate.