Rattlesnake Lodge Trail: Step Back in Time on an Appalachian Hike

For hikers who love a touch of history with their mountain air, the Rattlesnake Lodge Trail offers a fascinating blend of nature and nostalgia. Just a short drive from Asheville, this 3.6-mile out-and-back trail takes you through lush forest and past the intriguing ruins of a turn-of-the-century mountain retreat. The moderate hike combines shady woodland paths, quiet creeks, and a sense of stepping back into the past.

The trail begins at a Blue Ridge Parkway overlook and quickly immerses you in a dense canopy of hardwoods. The gentle ascent is punctuated by occasional glimpses of distant ridgelines and the whisper of a nearby stream. About halfway up, you’ll encounter the remains of Rattlesnake Lodge, once a private summer home built in the early 1900s by Dr. Chase Ambler. Stone foundations, an old spring house, and even the remnants of a swimming pool hint at the lodge’s grandeur in its heyday.

The trail continues past the ruins, climbing slightly higher to reward hikers with quiet forest views and a peaceful escape from the bustle of everyday life. It’s an ideal hike for families, history buffs, and anyone who enjoys a good story to go along with their trek.

With its unique blend of Appalachian charm and a touch of mystery, the Rattlesnake Lodge Trail is a must-visit for those exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville.

Adventure Guide: Rattlesnake Lodge Trail

Trail Overview

• Length: 3.6 miles out-and-back
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 700 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Location: Near milepost 375.2 on the Blue Ridge Parkway
• Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall, when the forest is most vibrant

What to Expect

• Trail Features: A well-maintained dirt path with moderate inclines and historical markers identifying the ruins of Rattlesnake Lodge.
• Highlights:
  • Ruins of Rattlesnake Lodge, including stone foundations, a spring house, and remnants of a swimming pool.
  • Quiet forest scenery, with occasional views of nearby peaks.
  • Seasonal wildflowers in spring and colorful foliage in fall.

Tips for Hikers

• Parking: Park at the Tanbark Ridge Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway near milepost 375.2. The trailhead is easily accessible from this spot.
• What to Bring:
  • Water and snacks for the hike, especially if you plan to linger at the ruins.
  • Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip for rocky sections.
  • A trail map or GPS, as some side trails in the area can be confusing.
• Safety Note: Be cautious near the ruins, as the stonework and terrain can be uneven.

Getting There

From Asheville, take the Blue Ridge Parkway north to milepost 375.2. Park at the Tanbark Ridge Overlook, where the trailhead is clearly marked. The drive is approximately 20 minutes from downtown Asheville.

Fun Fact

The lodge earned its name not because of frequent snake sightings but because the original owner, Dr. Chase Ambler, had a pet rattlesnake that lived on the property—a quirky detail that’s become part of its legend.