Laurel Ridge is a gated community located about five minutes north of Black Mountain, NC. Nestled into the mountains, Laurel Ridge was created with its natural setting in mind. The community offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, an abundance of native plants and wildlife, and privacy for homeowners seeking peace and quiet. In this post, we’ll look at Laurel Ridge’s location, amenities, and building opportunities.
Because of the geographic position of Laurel Ridge, some homes get a spectacular view of Lake Burnett, Asheville’s largest reservoir.
What is Laurel Ridge?
The Laurel Ridge community is composed of 190 lots, with several land parcels available as re-sales and others with houses that are completed or under construction. Over 17,000 acres of protected land surround Laurel Ridge, including parts of the Asheville Watershed, the Bee Tree Watershed, and the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy. Nearby is Lake Burnett, the largest reservoir operated by the City of Asheville, as well as convenient access to the historic Blue Ridge Parkway.
Neighborhood Amenities
Laurel Ridge has a gated entrance, paved roads, underground utilities, and its own water system with water provided by the Asheville Watershed. The community is located in the North Fork Valley, which sits outside of Black Mountain’s city limits, so it is not subject to Black Mountain taxes.
Despite the community’s altitude, roads throughout Laurel Ridge aren’t as curvy and challenging as those in many mountain neighborhoods. The Black Mountain Fire Department has a substation located inside the community with a meeting space above it called “The Lodge”.
Internet access in Laurel Ridge is available from SkyRunner, using buried fiber optic lines. Read our article about Asheville area internet access for more information.
The views from some homes in Laurel Ridge are among the best in the region.
Lots and Homes for Sale in Laurel Ridge
Lots for sale in Laurel Ridge range from one to four acres, with some more heavily wooded than others, and there are usually more lots than homes available for sale in the neighborhood. House types in Laurel Ridge include log homes, craftsman homes, modern homes, or timber frame homes. Many properties offer beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
If you’re planning to buy land and build a home in Laurel Ridge, there are a variety of lots available. Consider the lot’s topography, trees and other plant life while designing your new home, as it is important that the home works with the land and exists in harmony with its natural surroundings. The community’s Architectural Review Committee will approve construction plans before building commences.
Laurel Ridge has a variety of home types, including craftsman and timber frame homes.
Vacation and Rental Homes in Laurel Ridge
For those looking to buy a vacation home – or make extra income through a vacation rental – Laurel Ridge is an excellent option. Properties for sale in Laurel Ridge include both primary homes and vacation homes, with some serving as short-term rentals.
Laurel Ridge’s proximity to nearby attractions makes it a great place for a vacation home (and an attractive option for potential renters). Hiking trails abound nearby the community, as well as some truly stunning waterfalls and places to camp. Located 30 minutes from downtown Asheville, and only five minutes from Black Mountain, Laurel Ridge is close to some of the area’s best shops, breweries, and restaurants.
Laurel Ridge is nestled in the mountains, a neighborhood with easy access to creeks and hiking trails.
Things to Do in Black Mountain, NC
Black Mountain, NC, is brimming with mountain hospitality and quirky charm. State Street in Black Mountain is only a few minutes from Laurel Ridge, so residents and visitors can easily drive down to this main thoroughfare full of shops and restaurants. (We recommend The Dripolator Coffeehouse, My Father’s Pizza, and The Trailhead Restaurant & Bar). If you’re craving ice cream, be sure to check out Kilwin’s or head down State Street to the east until you see the big “Blue Cone” sign outside Dairy King. This local favorite offers soft serve ice cream, banana splits, milkshakes, and more.
While you’re strolling State Street, pop into a few shops along the way. Kids and adults alike will love Town Hardware & General Store. Founded in 1928 as “Black Mountain Hardware,” the general store carries everything from lawn and garden supplies and tools to kids’ toys, greeting cards, and candies. Walking in the front door is like visiting Andy Griffith’s Mayberry – not an experience you want to miss.
For wine lovers, the Merry Wine Market is a must-visit shop with a great selection of beers, wines, and gifts. Common Housefly is a fun boutique kitchen store with gadgets and tools for chefs and food lovers of all types. Key City Antiques is a charming shop full of hidden treasures, antiques, and collectibles. For more on the best shopping in Black Mountain, click here.
Black Mountain is packed with fantastic restaurants, boutique shops, and year-round activities for the whole family to enjoy. Photo credit: Dustin Brank.
Black Mountain has a library right off of State Street, making it conveniently walkable from the downtown area. The Black Mountain Center for the Arts is also located on State Street in the renovated Old City Hall. This nonprofit community arts center hosts art exhibits, performances, films, and more. Classes, workshops, and summer camps are offered at the center as well.
Montreat, NC, is a neighboring town to Black Mountain, located directly to the northeast. Montreat is known as the home of Montreat College, a Christian liberal arts college, as well as the Montreat Conference Center, a gathering place for the Presbyterian church. The college is built around the picturesque Lake Susan, a lovely place to take a walk (especially at sunset).
Throughout the town of Montreat, there are many trails and overlooks accessible to the public, and it’s easy to find a campground in the area too. Click here to read our recommendations for the best camping near Black Mountain.
Moving to Laurel Ridge
The Laurel Ridge neighborhood strikes the perfect balance between natural beauty and modern convenience, making it easy to find peace and quiet in the tranquility of mountain life. Close to both the excitement of Asheville and the coziness of Black Mountain, while still being “away from it all,” this community is the perfect place to put down roots (or just come and stay for a while).
We’d love to help you buy a lot or home in Laurel Ridge. You can view current listings in the neighborhood and sign up for new listing alerts to stay in the loop. And please contact us to let us know you’re considering Laurel Ridge. We’ll be happy to answer any questions!
Leave a Reply