Top 10 Best Engagement Photo Locations Near Asheville, NC

Looking for some amazing engagement photo locations near Asheville, NC? This mountain city is a dream for couples, offering everything from breathtaking peaks to serene waterfalls and charming historic sites (it truly is our favorite place in the world). Whether you’re hiking to a dramatic overlook or posing beside a rushing waterfall, these top 10 locations near Asheville are perfect for some beautiful engagement photos. Some locations you may have seen before, but we also included some you may have not heard of yet! This guide includes details on accessibility, hike lengths, and the best seasons to visit to help you plan your unforgettable session! We also included some tips for you about what to wear, how to prepare, and a little bit about us as well, so hopefully this guide can be super helpful for you!

1. Max Patch

Distance from Asheville: 50 miles (~1.5-hour drive)
Hike: Easy, 1.5 miles round trip
Parking: Ample parking available near the trailhead

Max Patch is a 4,600-foot grassy bald along the Appalachian Trail, offering panoramic 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s easily accessible, with a short, relatively flat hike to the summit, making it perfect for couples looking for epic photos without too much effort. Best visited in late spring through early fall, the elevation makes it chilly and windy in winter. Golden hour here is particularly magical, with soft light illuminating the endless mountain layers – it truly is one of out favorite engagement photo locations near Asheville, NC!

2. Black Balsam Knob

Distance from Asheville: 35 miles (~1-hour drive)
Hike: Moderate, 1.5 miles round trip (longer hikes optional)
Parking: Limited parking at the trailhead; arrive early

One of the most iconic spots near Asheville, Black Balsam Knob offers wide-open views at over 6,000 feet elevation. The trail is rocky and exposed, adding to the adventurous feel of your session. Because of its high elevation, it’s best visited in late spring, summer, or early fall to avoid extreme cold and wind. Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for strong breezes even in warmer months. The sunsets here are unforgettable, making it an incredible spot for engagement photos.

3. The Biltmore Estate

Distance from Asheville: 5 miles (~10-minute drive)
Hike: None, but there are walking trails on the estate grounds
Parking: Ample parking available; shuttle services provided

If you’re dreaming of timeless elegance, the Biltmore Estate is unmatched. It truly is one of the most iconic engagement photo locations near Asheville, NC. What we love about the Biltmore is they have so many beautiful trails and mountain views where you can get photos like the ones above, but then they also have the beautiful architecture of the Biltmore house where you can get elegant photos like the one below. You truly can have two completely different vibes in one shoot and thats why we LOVE it. Year-round beauty ensures the perfect setting regardless of the season.

Tips for Your Engagement Session in the Mountains

Engagement sessions in the mountains are magical, but preparation is key to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some essential tips:

1. Bring Extra Layers: Mountain weather can be unpredictable, even in summer. Bring jackets, shawls, or blankets to stay warm during cool evenings or windy conditions.
2. Download Offline Maps: Cell service can be spotty in remote areas. Download maps to avoid getting lost and ensure you can navigate to your location easily.
3. Fill Up Your Gas Tank: Many locations are far from gas stations, so it’s best to start with a full tank.
4. Pack Snacks and Water: Long sessions in remote areas can leave you hungry or dehydrated. Keep snacks and water on hand, especially if you’re hiking.
5. Wear Comfortable Shoes: Even for shorter walks, trails can be rocky or uneven. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots, and bring your session shoes to change into.
6. Check Sunset Times: Plan your session around golden hour for the best lighting, but be aware of when the sun sets to avoid hiking back in the dark.
7. Bring Bug Spray and Sunscreen: These essentials will keep you comfortable in both sunny and shaded spots.

What to Do if It Calls for Rain During Your Engagement photos

The mountains can be unpredictable, and rain is always a possibility. Here’s how to handle it:

1. Embrace the Rain: Light rain can add a romantic, whimsical vibe to your photos. Bring a clear umbrella, and trust your photographer to capture the magic. The misty mountains can create a unique and unforgettable backdrop.
2. Be Flexible: If the forecast shows heavy rain or thunderstorms, your photographer will likely suggest rescheduling. Safety is always the top priority, especially if hiking is involved.
3. Stay Positive: Remember that unpredictable weather is part of the mountain experience. A little rain might make your session even more special and reflective of your adventurous spirit.

What to Wear to your engagement photos

Your outfit choices play a big role in how your photos look and feel. Here are tips for both men and women to help you shine:

1. Choose Colors That Complement Nature: Neutral tones like cream, beige, soft pastels, or earthy hues (forest green, rust, navy and sometimes dark red) photograph beautifully in natural settings. Avoid overly bright or neon colors that can clash with the surroundings.
2. Consider Movement and Texture: Flowy dresses, skirts, or shirts with soft fabrics create elegant motion in photos. Textures like lace, knits, or linen add depth and interest.
3. Don’t Worry About Dirt: The best photos often happen when you’re carefree. It’s okay if your dress brushes the ground or your pants pick up some dust—it’s part of the adventure.
4. Comfort First: If your location requires a hike, wear comfy clothes and hiking boots. We always bring a pop-up changing station, so you can change into your session attire once we arrive.
5. Coordinate Without Matching: Pick outfits that complement each other without being identical. For example, if one person wears a patterned outfit, the other should stick to solid colors.
6. Accessorize Thoughtfully: Hats, scarves, or jewelry can elevate your look, but avoid anything too flashy.
7. Practice in Advance: If you’re wearing a new outfit or shoes, try them out beforehand to ensure they’re comfortable.

Meet your photographers for your engagement photos near asheville, nc

Hi, we’re Yara & Christian – we’re elopement & micro-wedding photographers based in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina (thats us below!). We have grown up loving this area with our whole heart and we feel so lucky that our job is showing people this beautiful area and creating beautiful art with them! We would love to be part of your day whether it be an engagement session, elopement or micro wedding, or just for fun session while you’re visiting this area! 

Here is everything that’s included in our Asheville Engagement Photos Pricing & Information Package:

Asheville Engagement Photos Pricing & Information Package

starting at: $585

For more information about our pricing and information, you can go to findyara.com/pricing-info and if you just want to know more about us and what we do, you can visit our website and findyara.com! 

We genuinely can’t wait to chat with you and plan a super fun and adventurous photo shoot 🙂