Each year on the first Saturday in May people all around the world participate in World Labyrinth Day. This celebration is an international annual event founded by The Labyrinth Society (TLS) in 2009, but the practice of walking labyrinths is not something new.

It can be traced back approximately 4,000 years and, according to some historians, has been found in many religions and cultures as a way to simulate the sacred tradition of spiritual pilgrimage. Walking in a labyrinth is used as a meditative and contemplative practice – a way to open the mind to the present moment and stay centered.

The most well-known labyrinth is located in Chartres Cathedral in France. Built in the early 1200s, pilgrims from all around the globe continue to walk its winding path even today. Fortunately, for those of us in the U.S., labyrinths have been experiencing a resurgence in the last few years. And right near the unique mountain setting of the Meadowlark Motel, you can take your own inner journey around a labyrinth in Western North Carolina.

What is a Labyrinth?

A labyrinth is different from a maze. While a maze gives you various choices and paths to take, a labyrinth has only one path. The worry of making decisions about which way to go is removed, and all you have to do is focus and enjoy meditating.

Labyrinths are laid out in a circle with a meandering pathway that leads to a purposeful center point. You enter and exit at the same spot. It’s a metaphor for the journey of life as we seek to reach the deepest part of our Self, spend time contemplating, then return back out into the world with a clearer understanding of who we are.

Make Your Way Through These 13 Labyrinths in Western North Carolina

At the Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center, you’ll find a labyrinth design made from smooth flagstones set in a lush, grass lawn on the tranquil lake shore. Look for it beside Memorial Chapel at 20 Chapel Dr, Lake Junaluska, NC.

River Arts District in Asheville boasts a large-scale labyrinth made of river rocks of assorted sizes and shapes. You’ll find it next to the old Cotton Mill site at 122 Riverside Dr., Asheville, NC.

On the campus of UNC-Asheville, just above Weizenblatt Hall and below Ramsey Library, stones create the outline of a labyrinth on a serene knoll beneath shade trees. 1 University Heights, Asheville, NC

The Sacred Garden at First Baptist Church of Asheville is open to both members of the congregation and the public. The labyrinth and outdoor sanctuary is located in the courtyard of the church to the left of the main entrance. 5 Oak St., Asheville, NC

At St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, white stones shape this labyrinth on a grass lawn. You can find it located in the field, just behind the pavilion. 219 Chunns Cove Rd., Asheville, NC

The Unity Center in Mills River has created a labyrinth that is handicapped accessible. Made from a hard pack white gravel surface between rows of bricks, it is perfectly suitable for someone in a wheelchair. 2041 Old Fanning Bridge Rd., Mills River, NC

The Light Center over in Black Mountain boasts a large labyrinth laid out on a white stone bed surrounded by a peaceful grove of trees. Look for it behind the geodesic prayer dome. 2196 Hwy 9 South, Black Mountain, NC

Visit The Labyrinth Center in Fairview, where you can meander in the fresh air across large natural stones laid out on grass. 58 Dark Star Way, Fairview,NC

The Kanuga Conference Center in Hendersonville has a black design painted on a large white concrete circle, making it a great spot if you prefer to walk a labyrinth barefoot. 130 Kanuga Conference Dr., Hendersonville, NC

Holmes Educational State Forest is a delightful outdoor experience for the entire family and is a great option if you’re interested in introducing your children to a labyrinth in Western North Carolina. Stones form the shape of the labyrinth over bare ground in a stunning natural park setting. 1299 Crab Creek Rd., Hendersonville, NC

At Crystal Visions, a holistic and spiritual services shop, you’ll discover a labyrinth made from large stones atop a grass lawn. 5426 Asheville Hwy., Hendersonville, NC

Carpe Diem Farms in Highlands boasts a labyrinth that is formed by rocks and stones slightly sunk into a field. 544 Western Rhodes Dr., Highlands, NC

Visit the Mountain Valley Center near Franklin, and you’ll find a large labyrinth shaped by stones in a field flanked by trees. The stones are partially set in the ground, giving it the look an ancient labyrinth. 43 Shambala Way, Otto, NC

Tips for Walking a Labyrinth in North Carolina

Keep in mind that there is an etiquette for labyrinths. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your labyrinthing experience:

  • Because they are designed for meditation, labyrinths are intended to be walked slowly, deliberately, and quietly.
  • It’s up to you if you want to wear shoes or walk barefoot; either are acceptable.
  • Silence or turn off your cell phone before entering.
  • Take a moment to center yourself at the entrance.
  • Try and walk with a quiet mind; if distracting thoughts arise, simply focus on each step and feel the earth beneath your feet.
  • When you reach the center, pause and soak up the stillness. It is perfectly acceptable to sit or lie down for a moment, or simply remain standing.
  • When you’re ready, walk back out of the labyrinth the same way you came in, appreciating any thoughts, feelings, or insights you may have received on the journey.

To find another labyrinth in North Carolina – or anywhere in the world – click here to visit the World-Wide Labyrinth locator. And have an amazing time celebrating World Labyrinth Day!