Photographs by Glenn Guiao

20 Beautiful Locations in Asheville

Asheville is one of my favorite places I've ever been in North Carolina, it's settled in the forest of Appalachian, its a beautiful mountain town. It's really no wonder that it's one of the top destination places that couples visit to to get their lovely engagement photos in Asheville, NC done.


I've made a list of places to get beautiful engagement photos in Asheville for engagement photos. On this list, downtown, Blue Ridge Parkway, "Grand Canyon of North Carolina." If I can't suggest a better location for your engagement pictures, we can set your sights on Charleston, SC, Washington DC, New York, Savannah, or Nashville.


Quick Disclaimer: The photos below aren't of Asheville, but they are mine. If you care about art, beautiful candid photographs of you and the mountains while you are my subjects, I am offering a free engagement session at said places. Fill out my contact form below.


Let's get started!

20 ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS IN ASHEVILLE | Best NC Wedding and Portrait Photographer

01.

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina


Let's go over Blue Ridge Parkway. It's an amazing location for photographers, especially if you're needing Asheville engagement couples photos.


PHOTOGENIC LOCATIONS

  1. Craggy Gardens - This area is known for its beautiful rhododendron blooms in late spring and early summer for couples pictures.
  2. Looking Glass Falls - This waterfall is located just off the parkway and is easily accessible. Best for Engagement photos near a waterfall.
  3. Max Patch - This bald mountain summit offers 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Best for getting couples photos on the mountain.
  4. Mount Mitchell - This is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. There’s a paved path to the summit that’s wheelchair accessible.
  5. Linville Gorge - This area is known as the “Grand Canyon of North Carolina” and offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the state. This is where Couples get sunset photos, at Linville Gorge


Pros

  • The pros are pretty clear. You've got this unmatched scenic beauty, an endless canvas for nature and landscape with the couples in it.
  • The landscapes, are diverse; from lush forests to mountain vistas, you've got a ton of options.
  • Plus, it changes with the seasons, offering something new every time you visit.
  • And those sunrise and sunset shots? Trust me, they're to die for.


But hey, you've got to be ready for the cons, like the crowds during peak season and the unpredictable weather. So, plan your visit well.


AccessibilitY

National Park Service put together this comprehensive list of accessible facilities along the parkway.


We're talking visitor centers, informative exhibits, engaging programs, clean restrooms (a must), inviting picnic areas, and comfortable camping sites. But here's the real deal—this list doesn't just stop at naming these places. It goes the extra mile, providing you with all the details about accessibility for each facility. It's about making sure everyone can enjoy the parkway


Accessibility - Blue Ridge Parkway (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)


BEST TIMES OF TO VISIT

The best time to visit and drive for professional photography at the Blue Ridge Parkway is from spring to fall. The weather is pleasant, and the possibility of closures on the road is much lower than in the winter months. The peak time for fall colors is in October and early November

20 ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS IN ASHEVILLE | Best NC Wedding and Portrait Photographer

02.

Scenic Waterfalls

The area around Asheville is home to many beautiful waterfalls that are perfect for couple and engagement photos in front of a waterfall.


Photogenic Locations

  1. Looking Glass Falls: This waterfall is located just off the parkway and is easily accessible. It’s a popular spot for photography, especially during fall when the leaves change color.
  2. Sliding Rock: This natural water slide is located near Looking Glass Falls and is a fun place to take photographs
  3. Linville Falls: This waterfall is located at Milepost 316.4 and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape
  4. Crabtree Falls: This waterfall is located at Milepost 339.5 and is accessible via a short hike
  5. Roaring Fork Falls: This waterfall is located at Milepost 344.1 and can be accessed via a short hike



Time of day

According to Blue Ridge Parkway Daily, the best time to photograph the Blue Ridge Parkway is during sunrise and sunset.

20 ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS IN ASHEVILLE | Best NC Wedding and Portrait Photographer

03.

Downtown Asheville


The city’s vibrant downtown area is full of colorful street art, historic buildings, and unique architecture that make for great for getting engagement photos in Downtown Asheville.


Here are some of the best places to get engagement pictures in Asheville:

  1. Pack Square Park: This park is located in the heart of downtown Asheville and offers beautiful views of the city skyline. The park has a large fountain, plenty of green space, and a stage for live performances, fun location to do your engagement photos.
  2. Wall Street: This pedestrian-only street is full of colorful murals, unique architecture, and interesting shops that make beautiful location for Asheville engagement pictures.
  3. Grove Arcade: This historic building is home to many shops, restaurants, and galleries. Definitely get photos at the arcade’s beautiful architecture and unique design.
  4. Asheville Urban Trail: This self-guided walking tour takes you through the streets of downtown Asheville and highlights the city’s history, architecture, and culture. The trail includes 30 stops that are perfect for couples photography
  5. Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar: This unique bookstore is located in a historic building and offers a cozy atmosphere with plenty of books, wine, and champagne. The bookstore’s beautiful design and unique features make it a popular spot for engagement photography 



Best Time of Day

Best time of day to photograph in Asheville would be in the afternoon at sunset.

20 ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS IN ASHEVILLE | Best NC Wedding and Portrait Photographer

04.

Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Gardens at Asheville, located in University of North Carolina Asheville is a beautiful place to take photographs of flowers, plants, and wildlife, and couples getting engaged.


The gardens are open daily from sunrise to sunset for the enjoyment of the community. Free parking is available on site and admission is always free.


Please follow the rules when we're doing our photoshoot there


Address:151 WT Weaver Blvd, Asheville, NC 28804
20 ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS IN ASHEVILLE | Best NC Wedding and Portrait Photographer

05.

Biltmore Estate, North Carolina


The Biltmore Estate is a historic mansion located in Asheville, North Carolina. It is a popular location for engagement photos in Biltmore Estate and proposals. The estate features beautiful gardens and grounds that are perfect for engagement photography in Asheville.


Photogenic Locations

Here are some of the best locations for engagement photography at the Biltmore Estate:

  1. Italian Garden: This garden features a beautiful fountain and is surrounded by colorful flowers and plants.
  2. Rose Garden: This garden is home to many varieties of roses and is perfect for romantic photos.
  3. Lagoon: This area features a tranquil pond and is surrounded by lush greenery 2.
  4. South Terrace: This terrace offers stunning views of the estate and the surrounding mountains/
  5. Walled Garden: This garden features many varieties of flowers and plants and is surrounded by a beautiful brick wall.

If you’re planning an engagement session at the Biltmore Estate, consider hiring an Asheville photographer who is familiar with the property. They can help you find the best locations for your photoshoot and ensure that you get the most out of your experience.


Fees | $95

There is a fee to visit the Biltmore Estate. According to the Biltmore Estate website, adult Biltmore House admission starts at $95. However, admission to the estate includes access to many attractions, including the Biltmore House, Gardens & Grounds, Antler Hill Village, and the Biltmore Winery 



20 ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS IN ASHEVILLE | Best NC Wedding and Portrait Photographer

06.

Additional Photogenic Locations outside of Asheville


MOSES CONE | BLOWING ROCK, NC

The park’s beautiful landscape and historic architecture make it an ideal location for engagement photography. Here are some of the best locations for engagement photography at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park:

  1. Bass Lake: This lake is surrounded by beautiful trees and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  2. Flat Top Manor: This historic mansion is located on the park grounds and features beautiful gardens and grounds that are perfect for photography.
  3. Trout Lake: This lake is surrounded by beautiful trees and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  4. Carriage Trails: The park’s 25 miles of carriage roads offer many opportunities for engagement photography. The trails are surrounded by beautiful trees and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.



BEACON HEIGHTS TRAIL | BLOWING ROCK, NC

Beacon Heights Trail is a popular hiking trail located in Blowing Rock, North CarolinaThe trail is approximately 0.8 miles long and offers stunning views of Grandfather Mountain from a pair of rocky overlooks 1The trail is relatively moderate and is dog-friendly.


The hike departs from a trailhead and parking area located near the Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 305, crossing a gravel road before diving eastbound into the forest 


Location and Best Time To Photograph

Beacon Heights Trail is a great location for engagement photography, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light is soft and warm. The trailhead is located near the Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 305



HAWKSBILL TRAIL | LINVILLE, NC


BLACK BALSAM KNOB | EAST FORK, NC

20 ENGAGEMENT LOCATIONS IN ASHEVILLE | Best NC Wedding and Portrait Photographer

Looking to get engaged in one of these locations?

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Editorial and Fine Art Photographer | Wilmington, NC

Capturing Memories

Hi guys! my name is Glenn, and I'm a Wilmington engagement photographer. I specialize in couples photography, and I love capturing the special bond between two people in love. I'm passionate about my work, and I believe that engagement photos in Wilmington should be a fun and memorable experience. I'm confident that I can capture the love and connection between you and your partner.

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Glenn

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