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The mission: From the website, the WNC Nature Center's mission is to "...connect people with the animals and plants of the Southern Appalachian Mountain region by inspiring appreciation, nurturing understanding, and advancing conservation of the region’s rich biodiversity."

About the Nature Center: The WNC Nature center is a 501-c3 nonprofit that is on over 40 acres of Southern Appalachian habitat. It is home to over 60 species of animals that are native to the Appalachian region. Due to an increase in popularity in previous years, part of the Nature Center is under construction for a project called "2020 Vision" but it is still open.

History:

  • Originally opened as the Asheville Zoo

  • Had to sell most animals due to financial hardships during the Great Depression

  • Became the Children's Zoo and Nature Center (1973)

  • Friends of the WNC Nature Center was formed (1975)

  • Reopened as the Nature Center (1976)

  • River otter exhibit opened (1981)

  • Predator Habitat Project began (1989)

  • Received Association of Zoos and Aquarium (AZA) accreditation (1999)

  • City of Asheville took over management (2006)

  • Red Wolf Run exhibit opened (2008)

  • Small Mammals exhibit opened (2009)

Animals include:

  • Larger mammals such as cougars, bears and wolves.
  • Smaller mammals such as raccoons, foxes and otters.
  • Reptiles and amphibians such as turtles, salamanders and snakes.
  • Birds such as owls, hawks and vultures.
  • Petting zoo animals such as goats and donkeys.

Programs include:

  • Family activities like birthday parties, summer camp and educational programs.
  • Group activities like field trips or group visits
  • Conservation projects and wildlife rehabilitaton

Visiting:

  • The Nature Center is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
  • It can be found at 75 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville, NC 28805.Directions can be found here.
  • Contact them at (828) 259-8080.

 

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