The Western North Carolina chapter of American Pilgrims on the Camino is centered on Asheville, North Carolina.
The purpose of local chapters is to keep pilgrims connected to the Camino and to introduce new people to the Camino. We accomplish this through walks, social gatherings, presentations, social media, mentoring future pilgrims, a lending library, and more.
Contact chapter coordinator Bill Werme at WesternNorthCarolina@americanpilgrims.org for more information or to be added to the chapter email list.
And be sure to check out our chapter Facebook group and a sample edition of the WNC NEWSLETTER.
Events
We conduct three types of regular events: a Tuesday morning walk and coffee (the Tertulia), a monthly training walk, and a monthly talk at REI (April to October).
Other events happen during the year, and the best way to stay informed about all of our events is by joining our newsletter or by checking American Pilgrims' Local Chapter Events Calendar and our Facebook group.
There are always members present at our events who are happy to answer Camino questions.
Weekly Tuesday Tertulia
Tertulia is a Spanish word for a social or educational gathering. Every Tuesday morning we meet at the Canteen in the Wrong Way Cabins lodge located at Amboy Road and Midnight Drive across from the French Broad Greenway. We walk about 4.5 miles, rain or shine, then we return to the cafe for coffee and conversation, including guidance for new pilgrims who have
questions.
We begin walking at 8:30; arrive 10 minutes early and meet us inside the cafe or on the outdoor deck. Some walk a shorter distance out and back. You can skip the walk and join us for coffee at about 10:00 am. No Registration required.
Monthly Training Walks
On the first Saturday or Sunday of every month we do a longer training walk of about 10-11 miles with shorter options. We have three routes in Asheville and other routes in Brevard, Hendersonville, and Black Mountain. The route and date vary each month. The American Pilgrims Events Calendar and our Facebook group are the best places to check details. No Registration required.
Monthly Educational Programs at REI
Between April and October on the first Wednesday of the month we present an educational talk with questions and answers. We meet at 6:00 pm in the REI community room (second floor). REI is located at 31 Shenk Parkway in Biltmore Park in Arden. Topics include Camino
preparation and trip reports by members. Check our Facebook group or REI for details.
Please register at REI.
Additional Activities
Lending Library: We have Camino books and resources you can borrow. The library is available at our Tuesday Tertulia and other events.
Spanish Group: a member who lived in Spain leads a small group that practices Spanish skills. All language levels are welcome.
Mentor Program: pairs individuals who have questions about their upcoming Camino with a nearby veteran who can provide advice and support. Contact us at WesternNorthCarolina@americanpilgrims.org. Experienced Camino walkers and cyclists who would like to serve as mentors should contact us so that you can be added to our resource list.
Become a Member
You don't need to be a member to participate in chapter activities. However, we'd love to have you! American Pilgrims members aid our national mission to support Camino infrastructure, gather pilgrims and provide information about the Camino. Becoming a member it's a great way to connect with your fellow pilgrims, qualify for Hospitalero training, contribute to our La Concha publication, and attend exclusive members-only events.
Keen to Learn More About the Camino?
Consider joining the Facebook group for great dialogue, Q&A, photos and a running commentary about the Camino from like-minded pilgrims.
The website has a ton of pilgrimage planning resources like; a packing list, planning 101, what to expect while there, route overviews, and suggested apps and guidebooks.
And when you are preparing to go, you can even order your pilgrim credential from American Pilgrims. Members receive a free credential. Non-members may order a credential for a $5 donation.
And for some inspiration, check out La Concha, our quarterly magazine. It includes updates from American Pilgrims, notes from field volunteers, pilgrim stories, poetry, art and book/film reviews.
Rev 09/07/2025