Founded in 1893, Black Mountain shares its name with a mountain range to the north of the community. Visitors and residents are treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains, which offer recreational opportunities from hiking to camping. Families can enjoy fishing and picnics in the town's parks, a round of miniature golf or hiking along trails in and near the town.
The 19-acre Lake Tomahawk Park in Black Mountain features a walking path surrounding the lake and a fishing dock. Families can fish on the 4.5-acre lake or enjoy the amenities in the park, including a playground, two tennis courts, a horseshoe court, a gazebo and an outdoor swimming pool. In summer months, the park's amphitheater is used for outdoor concerts. A 1700-square-foot shelter is an ideal spot for group picnics, or families can use individual picnic tables and grills at the park.
South of downtown is Shadowbrook Golf and Games. Families interested in a round or two of miniature golf can enjoy two miniature golf courses. The facility is open daily during summer months and on weekends in the spring and fall. With views of the surrounding mountains, the courses are located in a natural setting with waterfalls and ponds. The center's snack bar offers hot dogs, nachos, pizza, popcorn and shaved ice, and an arcade is located on site.
The Swannanoa Valley Museum is located in downtown Black Mountain, next to the Black Mountain Center for the Arts. The museum organizes a series of hikes along the ridge lines of the upper Swannanoa Valley surrounding Black Mountain. Families and other interested hikers can explore remote areas and learn about the history and geography of the Swannanoa Valley. Exhibits in the museum detail the social, cultural and natural history of the valley.
For a day out, families can drive approximately 40 minutes south to Chimney Rock Park. Chimney Rock's Great Woodland Adventure is a family and child-friendly center with 12 discovery stations with locally made sculptures that educate guests on the area's animals. A state park is also around the privately-owned park, which features scenic hikes and rock climbing. Families can explore the Hickory Nut Falls trail, which takes hikers to the second highest waterfall in the eastern United States.
