Adult Field Course: Grandfather’s Starry Skies

Explore Arboretum trails with staff naturalists, observing flora, fauna, and intriguing natural phenomena. This guided outdoor learning walk invites curious participants to notice ecological details and ask questions.View original

Night-sky watching on a working farm timed for the Leonid meteor shower, with wide-open dark-sky views and a relaxed rural setting. Ideal for bringing blankets and binoculars to spot bright streaks and constellations together.View original

A relaxed beginner birdwatching walk explores garden paths and wooded trails in search of Asheville’s most colorful resident birds. Learn to observe local wildlife while enjoying the Arboretum’s landscapes.View original

Slow, mindful wandering in the Blue Ridge Mountains invites nature connection and reflection on the wisdom of the Winter Solstice. An immersive afternoon retreat centered on seasonal awareness and time outdoors.View original

A contemplative winter gathering explores nature’s rhythms through the stillness, beauty, and mystery of the season. Connect with the landscape and reflect on the darkness of the solstice.View original

Late-night lunar observing at a dark-sky park with telescopes trained on a bright Moon, highlighting crater details and surface features. Hands-on stargazing vibes with informal learning and community skywatching in Burnsville.View original

An after-dark stargazing gathering celebrating a decade of discovery, with night-sky viewing and astronomy-focused storytelling in an open-air brewery setting. Expect a laid-back community vibe under the stars with drinks available on site.View original

Hands-on stargazing with telescopes and astronomy fun facts while scanning planets, the moon, constellations, galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, and possible meteors. A community night under dark skies at an observatory setting.View original

Explore zine history and observation as a creative practice, then assemble a handmade nature zine with varied materials. This tactile workshop blends field-inspired noticing, independent publishing, and visual storytelling.View original

Hands-on field instruction in identifying edible Appalachian plants and fungi, with practical tips for safe harvesting, seasonal ecology, and ethical collecting. Expect a walk-and-learn format with guided observation and discussion in the outdoors.View original

Slow, guided shinrin yoku through native hardwoods, emphasizing mindful breathing, sensory awareness, and gentle walking for restoration, stress relief, and deeper connection to seasonal fall foliage; suitable for beginners.View original

Hands-on stargazing night with telescope views of planets, the moon, constellations, and deep-sky objects like galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters. Casual community gathering packed with astronomy fun facts and meteor watching under dark skies.View original

Explore woodland trails in small groups with trained volunteer guides, learning to identify wildflowers, trees, and plants while discovering seasonal forest types and local natural history.View original

Telescope stargazing under dark skies with guided astronomy insights on planets, the moon, constellations, and deep sky objects like galaxies and nebulae. Expect meteor spotting, star cluster views, and bite sized space fun facts for curious minds.View original

Peer through telescopes to explore planets, the moon, constellations, galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, and meteors. Astronomy fun facts bring the wonders of the night sky into focus.View original

Quiet, guided shinrin-yoku through Blue Ridge spruce and hardwood trails at The North Carolina Arboretum, using slow walking, breathwork, and sensory prompts to reduce stress and deepen nature connection.View original

After-dark treetop climbing and zipline-style challenges under the forest canopy, guided by headlamps and safety gear. A high-energy, adrenaline-forward ropes course experience geared toward adventurous adults and older teens.View original

Sample Highland Brewing’s seasonal Cold Mountain beer before a guided nighttime tour to see red and gray wolves. The 21+ experience includes two bottles to take home and wolf-inspired artwork.View original

A relaxed evening pairs hands-on crafting with a drink, creating a casual, social setting for creative activity and conversation at Asheville’s WNC Nature Center.View original

Trek to the habitats after dark while learning about North America’s Red and Gray Wolves. This nocturnal wildlife experience blends outdoor exploration with close-up animal observation.View original