Western North Carolina Road Trip

Looking for some advice for a trip to NC.

If you've been there, I'm interested in learning about the Pisgah region (DuPont State Forest, etc.) Looking at three days of riding...

1) Your top picks for trails not to miss

2) Good place to stay. Thinking Asheville, but curious if there's a certain area -- maybe on the outskirts -- that makes most sense. Looking for reasonably cheap and proximity to trail heads maybe with a place to get a beer at night.

3) Any other ideas/recommendations?