The entrance road is off of the Blue Ridge Parkway access and is paved.

Yes, but it’s a limited number, so try to arrive early.

Per the arboretum website for their Winter Lights, “All tickets are date-specific and must be purchased in advance ($5 convenience charge applied when purchased at door on non-sell out nights). Guests must select an entry time (6:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., or 8:00 p.m.) when purchasing tickets. Ticket holders may enter any time between their selected entry time and 9 p.m.” I would also check their site before going in general as they are experiencing snow delays.

We found it to be a perfect place to take our dog! Only issue is that you'll need two adults if you plan to go inside any of the buildings: 1 to stay with your dog, 1 to go inside. We also had difficulty finding water for our dog, so plan to bring a water bottle and portable water dish!

There is a beautiful bonsai exhibit. They have the outdoor bonsai exhibit garden from May to November and the inside exhibit from November to April.

I don't know, but someone at the arboretum can answer your question: either at the entry booth or in the Visitor Center.

Bikers and walkers can walk through the main entrance without paying a parking fee. As another suggested, you should consider contributing at the donation box at the main information desk once you do reach the parking area. There is only one entrance, so there is not a special biker/hiker entrance.

copied from their web-site: The North Carolina Arboretum does not charge a per person admission, only a parking fee. Cash, checks, Visa and Mastercard credit/debit cards are accepted at the front gatehouse. The first Tuesday of every month, the Arboretum also offers a 50% discount on personal vehicle parking ($7). Current parking fees are: Members: Free Personal Vehicles: $14 Motorhomes / Vehicles (21’ or larger): $50 Buses: $100 There are no other admission charges required for visitors to access the Arboretum’s grounds and facilities beyond the standard parking fees

Thanks for reaching out and we look forward to having you! All facilities will be open in April (including the Baker Exhibit Center). Most hiking trails are dirt/gravel and the gardens are wheelchair accessible.