Let’s all agree, upfront, that North Carolina is simply magical in any season — especially autumn! There’s something about the smell of fallen leaves, the ever-changing colors on the landscape, and the throngs of smiling people you encounter who love it as much as you do that makes fall an irresistible time of year to get outside and play.

Most first-timers visiting the Biltmore Estate in Asheville usually underestimate how much time they’ll want to wander in wonder while visiting America’s castle. Don’t be like most people. Set aside several days to enjoy the gardens and a tour of the inside of this grand house. But then…

Facebook/Biltmore Add at least a couple of days onto your trip to enjoy the other activities at the Biltmore.

Did you know you can take a self-guided kayak or float trip?

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The French Broad River runs right through the Biltmore Estate and you can rent a kayak or raft to explore the scenic river and the river vistas at the Biltmore.

Facebook/Biltmore Learn more here and here.

And then… there are the carriage rides. Travel along some of the same routes as did the Biltmores when they were on the estate. In this photo we see them in a Carriage Parade in 1905.

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Take a 30-minute carriage ride ($35 per person) and enjoy long-range views back toward the castle as you travel through the back country of this 8,000-acre estate. One hour and 90-minute rides are also available.

Facebook/Biltmore Learn more about it here.

You can also explore the meadows and woodlands of the Biltmore with other guests by way of a guided trail ride on the back of a horse chosen to meet your skill level.

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Or, take a private two-hour guided trail ride and see even more secluded areas of the estate.

Facebook/Biltmore Some limitations apply (such as all riders must be at least eight years old to participate). Learn more about trail rides, here.

Did you realize there’s so much more to see and do at the Biltmore than just touring the house and gardens?

Facebook/Biltmore There’s even more than we’ve listed here! Take a yoga class, go on a Land Rover expedition four-wheel tour, go fly fishing, work on your markmanship by shooting guns, and so much more.

Visit this link on the official Biltmore website to learn all about all of the little-known outdoor activities you can enjoy while visiting the estate. Start planning now… and go have some fun!

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Add at least a couple of days onto your trip to enjoy the other activities at the Biltmore.

Learn more here and here.

Learn more about it here.

Some limitations apply (such as all riders must be at least eight years old to participate). Learn more about trail rides, here.

There’s even more than we’ve listed here! Take a yoga class, go on a Land Rover expedition four-wheel tour, go fly fishing, work on your markmanship by shooting guns, and so much more.

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Address: Biltmore, 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803, USA