Engaging Educational Experience with Edible Herbs of Appalachia! Join us for a hike around Meraki Escape that culminates in a unique “Wild” dining experience by the Forestsong waterfall. This educational adventure will cover foraging tips, Leave No Trace principles, and a hands-on cooking class. We will wrap up our experience with a “Wild” meal for a unique dining experience.  This experience is offered by Food For Adventures.   2.5 Hour experience; 1.5 hour education/ 1 hour dining  |  $250/pp   Book Now

Step into the quiet magic of the forest and discover the fascinating world of wild mushrooms. During this private guided walk, you'll learn how to identify edible species, understand their preferred habitats, and experience the forest through a more attentive, nature-connected lens. Your guide shares practical, certified expertise in safe mushroom identification, sustainable harvesting, and regional varieties found throughout Western North Carolina.

This hands-on experience invites you to slow your pace, awaken your curiosity, and deepen your connection to the natural world. Along the way, you’ll receive helpful guidance on responsible foraging practices, as well as tips for storing, preparing, and cooking the mushrooms you gather. Perfect for beginners and nature lovers alike, it’s a grounding, enriching way to explore the forest together.   2 hours | $150 (1-2 people) Book Now

• Join us for another engaging and practical experience with the herbs of Appalachia. This hands-on hiking adventure will take place on Meraki Escape's property, where we will discuss, taste, and explore the benefits that herbs can provide in both culinary and medicinal contexts. Additionally, this class will cover other significant herbs (not found on the property) that play an important role in the history, culture, and development of our Appalachian Mountains. This hike includes a homemade herbal tea and “wild” snacks. The experience may also be held offsite at another location.  This experience is offered by Food For Adventures.   2 hours | $150/Person  Book Now

Falls with Nero Coffee Hikes

Escape into the heart of Panthertown Valley on a private guided hike to the stunning Schoolhouse Falls. Nero Coffee Hikes guides unique hiking experiences throughout western north carolina, but this exclusive coffee hike is only available for Meraki Escapes guests. 

This hike is great for all levels of hikers with minimal elevation gain along the 2.6-mile roundtrip hike. Nero Coffee Hikes includes private round-trip transportation from Meraki Escape, a scenic trek through lush forests, and a peaceful coffee break at the falls. 

Sip a freshly brewed cup of premium coffee as you soak in the beauty of the cascading water and serene surroundings, and enjoy a picnic lunch with a view on the way back to your cabin. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking for a unique and relaxing way to explore Western North Carolina.   4.5 hours (including lunch) | $375 per couple  Book Now