Events Search and Views Navigation
April 2018
10% for LEAF Schools + Streets
Each month, we donate 10% of a day’s sales to support a local nonprofit’s work. Shop on Tuesday, April 17, to support LEAF Community Arts' Easel Rider Mobile Arts Lab, part of LEAF Schools + Streets. The Easel Rider will even be at the store from 11:00-1:00 with free interactive hands-on arts activities. In July 2013, Asheville Parks & Recreation partnered with LEAF to continue and expand the Easel Rider programming. LEAF hires teaching artists that bring the Easel Rider to after-school programs,…
Find out more »Spain: Birds + Wine
For many, Spain brings to mind incredible food (especially 'tapas'), world-famous wine, and a fascinating history and culture. It is perhaps less widely known as a bird watching or eco-tourism destination, yet it has some of the best bird watching and natural areas in all of Europe. It is also home to the world's most endangered feline, the Iberian lynx. Join international bird guide Aaron Steed of Ventures Birding Tours as he recounts his recent trip through Spain's picturesque landscapes and charming…
Find out more »Traveling to South Africa
Traveling to Africa may conjure up images of jungles, deserts, and pith helmets, but there's so much more to the continent. A visit to South Africa is a popular choice for Americans because they speak English and it is home to a modern culture that balances the unsullied wilds. In fact, South Africa has an immense range of opportunities for travelers from rugged adventure to a spiritual experience. Outdoor Africa offers historical and cultural experiences that include authentic safaris mixed with…
Find out more »May 2018
Camping Day at the WNC Nature Center
We've partnered with the WNC Nature Center for some camping-oriented fun! Explore our interactive campsite and learn wilderness skills like tying knots and hiking with a map and compass. Families will also find a scavenger hunt, classes about the do's and don'ts of camping in WNC, and educational animal programs with the Nature Center's otters, bears, owls and raccoon. Event is included with regular Nature Center admission. As always, members get in for free! You can purchase a membership at wildwnc.org. Note:…
Find out more »Paddlefest 2018
Whether you're a seasoned paddler, just getting started, or want to spend some time on the still waters of Lake Julian, grab some friends and head to Paddlefest. Try out the latest stand up paddleboards, whitewater kayaks, fishing kayaks, and recreational flat water boats for free. (Download your liability waiver HERE.) You'll also have a chance to chat with industry experts about paddles, boating accessories, and the best spots in the region to get on the water this year. We'll have PFDs…
Find out more »Get Out More Tour
Backpacking is transformative. That’s why, for 18 years, Backpacker Magazine has educated, motivated + inspired thousands of backpackers searching for their personal transformations on the Get Out More Tour. BACKPACKER Ambassador, Randy Propster, is back on tour in 2018 to share his tried, tested, + fine-tuned backpacking experience with you. Whether you dream of thru-hiking a long trail or seek to upgrade your next weekend adventure on a trail near you, consider the Get Out More Tour your opportunity to access BACKPACKER’s trail-tested tips…
Find out more »10% for Conserving Carolina
Each month, we donate 10% of a day’s sales to support a local nonprofit’s work. Shop on Tuesday, May 15, to support Conserving Carolina. Conserving Carolina works with businesses, individuals, communities, partner organizations, and government agencies to preserve water and land resources in Western North Carolina. Conserving Carolina uses a mix of financial incentives along with the goodwill of conservation-minded landowners to preserve land from development. Significant conservation projects include the Worlds Edge Property at Chimney Rock State Park, Green River…
Find out more »Trekking Nepal’s Epic Places
A trekkers' paradise, Nepal combines Himalayan views, golden temples, charming hill villages, and jungle wildlife watching to offer one of the world's great travel destinations for adventurers and relaxation-seekers alike. What do you pack, how do you greet locals, what does "responsible trekking" mean? Hobnail Trekking Co. offers scheduled treks to Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp, and Gokyo Lakes, the three most popular treks in the country. Mark Johnson grew up on a North Carolina Christmas tree farm, but spends…
Find out more »Intro to Paddling on Lake Julian
We're hitting the water of Lake Julian Park the fourth Friday every month through August. Unwind at the end of the work week and learn how much fun it is to get on the water. Other dates include June 22, July 27, and August 24. If you've wanted to start your kayak adventures, but aren't sure of where to begin, this is a perfect starting point. Our paddling experts will give about an hour of thorough skills instruction followed by a paddle…
Find out more »June 2018
Backpacking Basics
Learn what to bring and (more importantly) what not to bring when setting out on a day, weekend, or thru hike. This clinic will include ideas on how to lighten your pack, maintaining gear on the trail, and making your own ultra-light gear to use in the backcountry. Feel free to bring your pack for a "shakedown" by our backpacking experts. RSVP on Facebook > This event is free and open to the public. Kids and well-behaved pets with owner…
Find out more »