Rattlesnake Lodge Trailhead

Rattlesnake Lodge Trailhead parking. Trail heads off to the left.

NPS Photo/Gail Fox

Quick Facts

Location:

Milepost 374.4, approximately 15 minutes north of Asheville

Significance:

Trailhead for the Rattlesnake Lodge Trail

Amenities

2 listed

Parking - Auto, Trailhead

A hike to Rattlesnake Lodge is a fascinating trip back in time. The pleasant wooded hike just north of Asheville brings you to the remains of the summer retreat of Dr. Chase Ambler. The Ambler family enjoyed the lodge and surrounding property in the early 1900’s and gave it a most unusual name.

Rattlesnake Lodge was aptly named as 41 rattlesnakes were said to have been killed in the first three years the Amblers were there. The snake skins were hung on the living room ceiling. Certainly an interesting decorating choice! (Please note that it is against federal law to disturb or kill snakes in the area now.)

Rattlesnake Lodge can be the perfect hike when you're in the Asheville area. It’s great if you’re looking for a shorter hike or if your time is limited. It is also a less traveled trail than many others in the area, so give it a try if you crave a less crowded, quieter experience.

The trailhead for the Rattlesnake Lodge Trail is located at Milepost 374.4 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. On the south end of the Tanbark Ridge Tunnel there are dirt pull-offs on both sides of the road that serve as parking for the trailhead. The trail begins on the west side of the road next to a small cascading creek. The trail quickly splits and both sides climb steadily for approximately 0.5 miles to the historic Rattlesnake Lodge site.

Pets are allowed but must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet in length.