Western North Carolina Nature Center

Western North Carolina Nature Center in Asheville focuses exclusively on the wildlife of the Southern Appalachian region, showcasing native species on 42 acres of forested grounds. The center’s commitment to representing only species found in the Southern Appalachians gives visitors an authentic connection to the remarkable biodiversity of their own backyard.

The Nature Center features red wolves, cougars, black bears, river otters, and the rare hellbender salamander — the largest salamander in North America. Its Appalachian Station exhibit houses predators in spacious naturalistic habitats, and the center participates in the critically important Red Wolf Species Survival Plan.

Western North Carolina Nature Center holds AZA accreditation and serves as the region’s primary resource for native wildlife education and Appalachian ecology.