American Black Bear
Generally shy and reclusive animals, black bears avoid human contact and are not normally aggressive. Two black bears, Uno and Ursa, live at the Nature Center.
Open 361 Days a Year: Admissions 10:00am – 3:30pm; park closes at 4:30pm
Due to significant flooding and impassable roads in our region from Tropical Storm Helene, the WNC Nature Center is temporarily CLOSED.
All of our animals are safe and accounted for, and there is minimal damage to the habitats. However, Swannanoa River Road and the main bridge to the Nature Center were washed away, and it will take time to reopen. We will undoubtedly need your support as we rebuild.
Donations can be made at www.wildwnc.org/donate.
We are open 361 days a year (closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Years Day).
Admissions from 10am-3:30pm with the park closing at 4:30 pm.
Our admissions windows are cashless. Tickets are available for purchase in advance online or in person using credit/debit and prepaid cash cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, and Apple Pay.
All active duty and retired military receive free admission with ID.
*Asheville City residents receive discounted admission. The Nature Center is part of the City of Asheville’s Parks & Recreation Department, and Asheville residents’ tax dollars support the Nature Center’s operation.
Black bears, red wolves, otters, and red pandas await you! Learn more about the special animals you’ll see who call the WNC Nature Center home.
See all of our animals.
Generally shy and reclusive animals, black bears avoid human contact and are not normally aggressive. Two black bears, Uno and Ursa, live at the Nature Center.
Similar to the Nigerian dwarf goat, the American pygmy is a small goat that only reaches 1-2 feet in height. They vary widely in coloration including white, tan, caramel, gray, and black.
Red wolves are highly endangered species that has been eliminated from almost all of its natural range. Our breeding pair of red wolves, Oak and Gloria, are part of the AZA Species Survival Plan.
Become a Friend of the WNC Nature Center today and enjoy savings and benefits as a member.
Become a Corporate Friend of the WNC Nature Center today and help keep Asheville wild!
WNC Nature Center
75 Gashes Creek Road
Asheville, NC 28805
Getting Here
General Inquiries
828-259-8080
admin@wildwnc.org
Friends of the
WNC Nature Center
PO Box 19151
Asheville, NC 28815
828-259-8092
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