Asheville Sunday: Hikes, Art, and Local Happenings

Good morning, this is your Asheville Local Frequency for Sunday, August 3, 2025. Stepping out this morning, bring your umbrella because light rain is in the forecast, and temperatures are hanging in the low 60s to low 70s throughout the day. If you are heading up to the Great Smoky Mountains today, keep in mind that Newfound Gap Road is closed due to rainfall damage, so you might want to plan an alternate scenic drive for your mountain fix. For those who like to start their Sundays with some fresh air, join fellow hikers at the Bent Creek area for the Hard Times to South Ridge to Pine Tree Loop hike, meeting at the Hard Times Trailhead at 9 this morning. It is a perfect way to stretch your legs, connect with nature, and maybe even beat the rain if you get an early start. Art lovers and the creatively curious can make their way to the River Arts District, where today from 10:30 am until 5 pm, you can jump into a hands-on glassblowing experience. It is your chance to craft a beautiful glass keepsake with guidance from skilled local artists, and all levels are welcome. Whether you're looking to create a memento or just watch the fascinating process, this promises to be a unique Asheville activity. If your Sunday afternoon calls for a more relaxed pace, consider heading to the Tanger Outlets for the Bal Harbour Shops Access Pop-Up or join in a special book launch by local author Christine D. Page, featuring a reading and conversation. Maybe you are in the mood for a tasting adventure—Rooted in Wine is hosting a Wine River Cruising event at 4 this afternoon in Fairview, where you can enjoy local flavors paired with river breezes. Families looking to cool off can check out Cane Creek Pool, open from 1 to 6 today for only four dollars admission. And if you want to weigh in on the future of Swannanoa, stop by Short Sleeves Coffee between 2 and 4, grab a free cup, and chat with one of Buncombe County's community planners about the upcoming small area plan. For a soulful evening, the Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove welcomes Colton Dixon tonight for a special concert, offering uplifting tunes as the sun sets over the mountains. On the local news front, Asheville’s small coffee shops are bracing for higher prices as new tariffs on Brazilian coffee take effect this week. Owners say customers might notice a price bump soon, with local roasters scrambling to secure enough beans as supply concerns rise. That is your Asheville Local Frequency for today. Whatever your plans, stay safe, soak in the mountain spirit, and support those local businesses and artists that make Asheville unique. This has been Asheville Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates. For more http://www.quietplease.ai Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.