From Staff Reports

The Western North Carolina Nature Center at 75 Gashes Creek Road in East Asheville will officially reopen to the general public on Oct. 5, after closing in March amidst the pandemic.

Visitors are being encouraged to purchase tickets online prior to their visit, though reservations or timed entry are not required. Tickets will be available for sale at the Nature Center entrance by card purchase only. Cash will not be accepted.

The Nature Center will be open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. with last admission at 3:30 p.m. Admission is $10.95 for adults, $9.95 for seniors, and $6.95 for children ages 3 to 15 (plus tax). Asheville residents receive a discounted rate with local ID and children under the age of 3 are free. To ensure the safety of the public, staff and the resident animals that call the WNC Nature Center home, indoor exhibits will remain closed. Enhanced cleaning protocols will be in place. Guests should wear face coverings and signage throughout the facility will remind everyone to maintain distance between themselves and others.

To buy tickets or a membership, visit wildwnc.org or call 259-8080.