Cashiers is the gateway to one of our favorite NC mountain escapes, Bear Lake Reserve. Creekside cabins, glamping tents, resort hotels you can find them all in the best Smoky Mountain towns. At, For a relatively small town, there are some fantastic restaurants in Waynesville, North Carolina. In the fall, U-pick farms like Grandad's Apples N' Such open up and make a fun stop for families. "source": "woocommerce", Just a few miles from Sylva (see below) is Dillsboro, an artist community that is one of the coolest North Carolina mountain towns. } If you simply want a relaxing getaway, you can find it here any time of year. Surrounded by rolling hills, it has many hikes for sweeping sights, such as the Nantahala Gorge. 4. You might say its a Foothills or Piedmont town, but well argue otherwise. Each village brings its own delightful draws and unique allure. There are a few hiking trails there, too, which are among the best in the area. Beyond the downtown, you will find lovely homes and streets with manicured yards and views in all directions. You can find works from hundreds of artists, all in this small scenic setting. Hi Marguerite, the goats are at the Carl Sandburg home in Flat Rock. With its very own beach, you can relax on the sandy shores and enjoy a refreshing dip into the cool, shimmering waters. text-decoration: underline 1. Ramping up the adventure and excitement levels near Banner Elk is the new Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster, one of only 20 coasters of this design in the United States. Alabama's quintessential mountain town is Mentone, which is set atop Lookout Mountain and filled with charming spots, including the Wildflower Caf, Mentone Log Cabin Village, and Mentone Arts and Cultural Center. The last one is an amazing introduction to the latter state park. Grand Highlands is one of the dreamiest mountain communities in North Carolina. Enjoy Wake Forest's many restaurants, museums, galleries, concerts, and more. ), The Best Black Mountains Hikes near Burnsville, 20+ Kid-Friendly Waterfalls In NC (Easy Hikes And Swimming Holes! Tourists travel from all over to soak in the waters. That last part is why Wilkes County is also home to the first-ever NASCAR track. The shores of Lake Toxaway are known for beautiful properties which date back to the turn of the century when industry giants such as the Fords, Edisons and Rockefellers vacationed here. A little over an hour west of Asheville, Bryson City calls itself the gateway to the Smokey Mountains, and is, in fact, a great option for travelers looking to visit the park. But, with only 12,920 full time residents, there aren't a lot of people to get the word out. Maggie Valley is also a popular stop on motorcycle routes through the mountains, and the Wheels Through Time Museum is one of the town's biggest attractions. Old Fort is set at the foot of the Black Mountains and surrounded by Pisgah National Forest. The iconic flower is an abundant symbol in this region of the state. $( document.body ).append( '
' ); Read More: 50+ Great Things to Do in Asheville (Downtown, Biltmore, and More!). Originally settled in the 1850's as a health resort, Asheville has an interesting history- in the late 1800 . While there's a bit of a dispute that we won't get into, Old Fort's Gold Festival typically kicks off each June. Its reputation for charm precedes it, known mainly as the hometown of Andy Griffith and the inspiration for the idyllic neighborhood his show was set in, Mayberry. This is the best of the North Carolina mountain towns to soak all your worries away. Madison County seat Marshall sits just north of Asheville and Buncombe County. Blowing Rock, North Carolina is one of the best small North Carolina towns and located just 10 minutes from Boone, it has a small village vibe. All of these mountain towns in NC possess something unique, which is why we cant choose our favorite. To ease your search, weve organized these NC mountain towns in alphabetical order. text-decoration: none Read More: How to Find 20+ Haywood County Artists on Blue Ridge Craft Trails. Jump Off Rock is a great scenic overlook that sits in Laurel Park, 15 minutes outside of downtown Hendersonville. .ai-viewport-1 { display: none !important;} "version": "7.4.0", For a mixture of small-town roots and modern comforts, Boone is a great balance of the two. From the mountains to the coast, North Carolina's charming cities and stunning natural areas lure visitors and residents from around the world. This wonderful (and family-friendly) music festival brings in big names each year. North Carolina mountain towns have a lot to offer those looking for extraordinary property surrounded by picturesque views to take in the natural beauty of the region and exquisite activities accompanied by top dining options. Dont forget to visit our favorite waterfalls in Cherokee: Mingo Falls and nearby Soco Falls. While in the area, dont miss out on Apple Hill Farm, an ethical and working alpaca farm! height: 100%; The history of Cashiers showcases the rich heritage of several buildings circa 1800s that have been restored overtime and are still in use today. You'll find the Great Smoky Mountains on the Eastern side of Tennessee. All this wonderful scenery might be a reason why many movies, including The Fugitive and Nell, were filmed in the area. 5. Banner Elk is also a popular gateway to Grandfather Mountain State Park and the Mile High Swinging Bridge on the privately-owned Grandfather Mountain attraction. Table Rock Mountain is one of the best hikes around. Tryon Fine Arts Center is a cultural institution of North Carolina, hosting eclectic exhibits, community events, TEDtalks, performing arts, classic films, and live music. Asheville is a city thats well known across the country for its charismatic charm, fantastic breweries, grand estate, proximity to waterfalls, and delicious restaurants. Hot Springs is one of the most adorable North Carolina mountain communities, best known for its hot mineral springs. At over 5,000 feet above sea level, you can expect some of the most breathtaking views from this mountain town. .content-area a { On the edge of the town is Soco Falls. } Read More: 25 of the Most Amazing Winter Hikes in North Carolina. My favorite is Flat Rock because I am a resident. .wp-block-button a { If you brought kids, theyll want to check out the fire engine outside! Boone is a no-brainer when it comes to top mountain towns in North Carolina, as this lively university town is close to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Feel free to browse the available properties on our website and contact us if you see something you love. The various festivals and several golf courses is what residents have come to love about Sapphire Valley along with the peaceful scenery that attracts many to the area. America's 50 Best Small Towns in the Mountains By Lissa Poirot, updated on December 13, 2022 Getty Images Small towns and wide-open landscapes are great places to be. Its original town limits are now a historic district where tourists can visit historical homes. Home to Appalachian State University, Boone is a thriving college town with plenty of High Country hikes, delicious restaurants, trailblazing breweries, and more things to do. You can view Fontana Lake in Graham County, too, though another spot is near Bryson Citys Road to Nowhere. Read More: National Parks Sites in North Carolina. You'll also find some of the best retirement communities in North Carolina. Cherokee is home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and one of our favorite small mountain towns in NC. Frostys in Ashe County is one of our favorite Christmas tree farms in North Carolina. The 3,800-acre development has nearly half the land set aside in conservation areas including lakes, waterfalls, woodlands and hiking trails. The Dry Falls are the claim to fame of the Highlands, a stunning waterfall you can walk behind and stay completely dry. Lake Glenville has the distinction of being the lake with the highest elevation east of the Mississippi River. Asheville, Greensboro and Charlotte are among the best places to live in North Carolina, a state experiencing continual economic growth. Read More: The North Carolina Bucket List. There are three breweries making some of the finest mountain drafts around. In summer, you may see people fishing. padding-left: 10px !important; Loved Black Mountain! For rare historical mountain artifacts, check out Swain County Heritage Museum. } document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Welcome to the Carolinas, as seen through the eyes of Cameron Seagle and Natasha Alden. Its easy to spend a week here at a coxy Asheville cabin and never get bored! Written by Lana Law Updated Jun 23, 2021We may earn a commission from affiliate links (). document,'script','https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); Copyright 2023 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. Its also home to New River Brewing for the finest craft beer and pub grub. The Diamondback (NC-226) is also a popular road for tourists and motorcyclists alike, famed for its incredible views. Asheville is one of the coolest mountain towns in NC and by population, its the biggest in this guide. Outdoor lovers can enjoy wonderful hikes and viewpoints in the surrounding Yancey County area, including those on nearby Mt. Its an ideal setting for any wild wanderings in the local landscape. Waynesville is considered by many to be the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Youll encounter galleries galore downtown, among specialty shops, fine fares, and craft beverages. Venture out and explore the rest of Burke County, hike to Hawksbill Mountains peak, Linville Falls, the nearby Wisemans View in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, and High Shoals Falls inside South Mountains State Park. South Lake Tahoe Might Be a Good Option. } Park the car and wander through small shops, discover local cuisine, and enjoy the fresh mountain air, or take a drive through the spectacular scenery to find waterfalls, lookouts, and hiking trails. It's a hot spot for mountain biking, mountain climbing, hiking, and waterfall chasing. Hendersonville Main Street, Hendersonville | Photo Copyright: Lana Law Asheville may be the best-known destination in the mountains of North Carolina, but Hendersonville is a wonderful small-town alternative. Real Estate Rankings Best Places to Live Best Places to Retire Rankings Category Population Size X-Large 2.5M+ Large 1M - 2.5M Medium 500K - 1M Small 50K - 500K Average Rent < $500 -. Old Fort. There are also some amazing hikes and waterfalls near Cashiers, including Silver Run Falls and the Panthertown Valley Trail that leads to Schoolhouse Falls. These studios open twice a year for Weaverville Art Safari, for which art lovers and makers alike travel from all over to be a part of. It is a popular tourist destination as well, so developing tourism . Overall SnackAbility. At the same time, Chattanooga has many urban pleasures, including dining and entertainment options, a wide variety of public. Several streams high in the Nantahala National Forest and the Pisgah National Forest feed the states largest private lake. The university, one of the more popular ones in the North Carolina system, has brought more and more young people to the area, so there's always something cultural to do on the weekends. The tallest dam in the Eastern US, Fontana Dam, is one of the more popular spots in Graham County, too. Blowing Rock and Boone are often talked about together because they are so closebut so different! Regardless of your religious views, Fields of the Wood (a massive representation of the 10 Commandments) is an interesting place to visit. Youll find stunning waterfalls and spectacular North Carolina hikes all right outside your doorstep in this small mountain town. Set right alongside the Green River, Saluda is a hotspot for water adventures, such as tubing, kayaking, and rafting. Do you have a favorite place you like to go or is there one that stands out among the rest? That scenic route is another reason we rank Highlands among the best mountain towns in NC! Beyond ski season, we love hanging out in this town. Access to enjoy kayaking, canoeing, waterskiing or just spending a day out on the boat is what most love about Lake Glenville. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Blowing Rock. Its home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi, the majestic Mt. Black Mountain. Streets here are rampant with a retro nostalgia, for a unique feel unlike anywhere else. .right-sidebar .content-area { But it's far from the only one. Many people come to this waterfall every year as the trail is an almost entirely flat gravel road. Valdese was settled by 19th-century Waldensians from Italy, giving it a unique identity apart from its neighbors. 14. Address: Pinehurst, NC, USA Address: Davidson, NC, USA Address: Winterville, NC, USA Address: Trent Woods, NC 28562, USA Address: Apex, NC, USA Address: Cary, NC, USA Address: Black Mountain, NC 28711, USA Address: Valdese, NC, USA fbq('init', '754829038551418', {}, { Its also home to one of the coolest distilleries in the state, Oak & Grist. Awesome to hear, Rebecca! Bald Head Island, NC 28461, USA. If you are heading to the coast, you may want to have a read through our article on Deep Sea Fishing in North Carolina. Fishing in North Carolina: The mountains are also a great place for fishing. Right next door to the happening city of Asheville, Weaverville has become its own desirable destination. Join me to explore 5 NC Mountain Towns that you MUST visit! Its a lovely scene, as the falls join a recreated grist mill, perfect to watch during a picnic. Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Bryson City is well-known for hiking and river recreation. Yes, Colorado boasts its fair share of ski resort towns known for drawing the rich and famous: Aspen, Vail, Breckenridge , Telluride and the like. Sit down and have a meal at a diner, or visit the Andy Griffith Museum! Named after blowing rock that is located 4000 feet above sea level the town has sweeping vistas, and is located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Climb to the top of Mount Jefferson to take in the views overlooking the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. For more ideas, see our list of the Top Attractions in North Carolina. 7. This tiny North Carolina mountain town is a hidden gem of the high country. #right-sidebar { Floating high at 3,700 feet is one of the best NC mountain townsBanner Elk. Known as a culinary hot spot in the mountains of North Carolina, Banner Elk offers a charming place to simply relax, enjoy the scenery, and indulge in some fine dining. These affordable towns could be your next home or vacation home! Of course, a very popular time of year to visit is in June, when the annual Rhododendron Festival kicks off. There is a happening scene of Boone breweries and Boone bistros to indulge in and an overarching focus on sustainability. Spend a luxurious weekend at The Old Edwards Inn and roam the charming shops. It is no wonder that Brevard is one of the best North Carolina mountain towns. We enjoyed renting a cabin house with our grandson & children, the young children walking in the New River & my husband & I kayking. There. From stunning scenery to outdoor adventure to quirky shops and quaint eateries, the North Carolina mountain towns have plenty to offer visitors. This area is considered to be one . Known as the home of the White Squirrel (and annual festival! Old Fort is another of our North Carolina mountain towns off I-40, best known for gold and Catawba Falls. Robbinsville NC. Spread over 78 acres but within walking distance of downtown Blowing Rock, this resort offers three lodging choices to suit everyone, from couples to families. shaka wear graphic tees is candy digital publicly traded ellen lawson wife of ted lawson best places to live in south carolina mountains 25 Feb/23 (No Ratings Yet) Fly fishing is a popular thing to do in Sylva. Set on a high plateau, some of its surrounding peaks boast breathtaking views. Filled with shops, boutiques, and the beautiful Village Green, there is always something to explore in this lovely town. Waynesville is the largest town in its county and is a hopping spot to host any mountain traveler. The sparkling North Carolina lake of the same name is the main draw for this mountain town. The annual Rhododendron Festival is what brings many visitors to this town today. For any theology or history buffs, the Field of the Woods is a massive monument representing the 10 commandments. .archive .content-area a { Its truly a unique experience. Land of Oz (held in September) is one of many great reasons to come here with its warmer outside. Beyond chasing tall hairy creatures, Marion is situated at the base of Mount Mitchell with many waterfalls nearby, such as Linville Falls and Toms Creek Falls. Climb to the top of Chimney Rock or stroll over the Rocky Broad River through the blooming flora of Flowering Bridge. If you want to spend a night up in this area, have a look at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, an incredible European-style, luxury hotel in the heart of downtown. Asheville is a popular retirement spot, and over a quarter of the population is age 60 or older . It's also the apple capital of North Carolina and one of the largest apple-producing counties in America. Night or day, this city never ceases to amaze. @media only screen and (min-width: 769px) { You can easily immerse yourself in local art, browse unique shops, and dig into each places amazing food scene. Banner Elk Avery County NC Official Website This town nestled amongst the foothills is rich in history and architecture. Its also known for The Diamondback, a road full of dangerous curves and beautiful vistas, popular among many daring drivers. Get the latest Severe Weather Alerts. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Maggie Valley. Near Beech Mountain skiing and Grandfather Mountain hiking. The town is named after an old train stop, being located at the southern edge of the Black Mountain Range within the Blue Ridge Mountains. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The Best of North Carolina: Still in the planning stage of your next vacation? Some of North Carolina's mountain towns are highly seasonal, with major attractions open only during the summer months, but a few, particularly those near the ski resorts, lend themselves more towards winter visits. ), downtown Brevard is charming and boasts the best toy store in North Carolina, O.P. 6. We dont want to leave out North Wilkesboro, the countys largest town, before moving on. Flat Rock is also where you can find one of the most popular places for apple picking in North Carolina, Sky Top Orchard. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops. 2 Marion at No. With the smallest population of all, the town consists of just a few quaint shops. This article may contain affiliate links. .ai-viewport-0 { display: none !important;} In the summer, these same ski hills feature downhill mountain bike courses for those fearless on two wheels. Did you know North Carolinas Beech Mountain is the highest town in the Eastern United States? Read More: Hendersonville NC Map of Attractions (+ 5 Surrounding Counties!). Read More: 20+ Kid-Friendly Waterfalls In NC (Easy Hikes And Swimming Holes!). There are museums, an arts center, a variety of shops, and over 30 restaurants, all quite impressive for their small stature. There are many opportunities for phenomenal hikes, waterfalls, climbing, watersports, and winter sports to engage in here. For example, its right on the outskirts of Pisgah National Forest and very close to Mount Mitchell (the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi). It makes an excellent base if the main purpose of your trip is to spend some time sightseeing in the mountains, or a good lunch stop if you are out on a day trip from Asheville or Hendersonville. There are so many outdoor options in West Jeffersons surroundings, including the Blue Ridge Parkway, the New River (ironically one of the oldest rivers), and Mount Jefferson. A significant number of people living in Cali go to a higher altitude. Of course, we cant forget about the famous Christmas Fraser Firs youll see around Ashe County. Its a town with a rich cultural heritage and an amazing area to learn more about these native peoples. Explore the hiking trails and waterfalls, and if you are here on a weekend, check the local events calendar to see the complete lineup of festivals. If you are looking for things to do, the TGIF Summer Concert Series features a wide variety of musicians playing free Friday night concerts in the main square. You can tour exciting educational museums and villages and browse many locally hand-made arts and crafts. The Ashe County Cheese factory and store are two great places to visit in West Jefferson, one of the cutest mountain towns in NC! Top 9 Mountain Towns to Live in Tennessee While Nashville, Knoxville, and Memphis may grab all the attention, Tennessee has some incredible, more rustic places to live. This gives the area a hip youthfulness that many find appealing. Come in the summer to experience the cool refreshing mist of any of the breathtaking waterfalls in the area or grab some skis to hit the snow-covered slopes in the winter. Great place to visit! The compact downtown is replete with restored old brick buildings housing interesting restaurants, art shops, and stores. Its one of many falls along the famed Waterfall Byway. With a mix of unique shops and galleries, art festivals, and a charming downtown, this Jackson County NC mountain town lives and breathes local art. Asheville may be the best-known destination in the mountains of North Carolina, but Hendersonville is a wonderful small-town alternative. ), and one of our favorite North Carolina distilleries (Oak & Grist). Youll also encounter a thriving art community through the Toe River Arts and awesome barn quilt trails! Not to be outshone by the National Park, Bryson City manages to be an experience all its own! Access to Roan Mountain goes through Bakersville and you can also enjoy the Toe Rivers waters here. Weve created many more NC travel guides that include these mountain towns in more detail. The national park on the Tennessee and North Carolina border is the most popular in the country, so picking the right place to stay in the Smokies can mean the difference between traffic and bright lights or the sounds of birds chirping and streams rushing. You're 20 minutes away from Raleigh, 20 minutes away from Durham, and 10 minutes away from Cary. Read More: Western North Carolina Map (400+ Wonderful Places Listed). Accommodation: Where to Stay in Banner Elk. Dont forget Catawba Brewing is based here for a cold refreshing craft pint post-adventure. .ai-viewports {--ai: 1;} Pearsons Falls is also nearby. The Macon County Gemboree is one of the most widely known gem shows in the entire country. The busy Main Street is lined with covered sidewalks, and is an ideal place for a bit of retail therapy. Its also home to the only fly-fishing trail in the country on the Tuckasegee River, making this activity quite a draw. Here are a few of them. For a traditional lodge experience, stay at the Chetola Lodge looking out over Chetola Lake. Downtown, youll find vintage motels, lots of motorcyclists, and the best pancakes of your life at Joeys Pancake House! Information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. At an elevation of 3,500, the town is surrounded by mountain peaks of 5,000 feet or more and is within close proximity to a number of natural resources to enjoy. Can some one tell me where the goats are in the Flat Rock picture? Home of the Davidson College Wildcats, Lake Norman, and great prices on real estate, the #3 best place to live in North Carolina, Davidson, is one of the Tar Heel State's best kept secrets. This is an isolated outpost at a high elevation and a hidden gem of the high country. The Jackson County Courthouse stands proudly on the hill at the end of Main Street in the quaint town of Sylva. In summer, you might want to head to the coast to experience the best beaches in North Carolina or have some fun in the Outer Banks. Don't miss a chance to see spectacular Dry Falls, about 10 minutes from town, where you can walk behind a curtain of water pouring off an overhanging ledge. As a former railroad outpost, the towns historic charm offers a vintage vibe, enhanced by establishments such as Paces General Store, the oldest grocery store in the state. ), Hendersonville NC Map of Attractions (+ 5 Surrounding Counties! One of the top summer attractions for families is Santa's Land Fun Park & Zoo, a large amusement park with rides and animals. A perfect getaway in an idyllic private setting welcomes all to the tranquil Lake Toxaway. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s){if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function(){n.callMethod? My favorite mountain town is Banner Elk. #1 Best Places to Live in North Carolina Morrisville Suburb of Raleigh, NC 79 reviews Niche User: Morrisville is one of my favorite cities in the Triangle Area of North Carolina. Banner Elk, NC 28604, USA. Then there is The Cullasaja Falls, about nine miles outside of Highlands, which is only visible by car. 5 Pinehurst at No. Its main attractions, including the darling historic downtown, the . Explore the charming downtown area on foot to discover its collection of shops, restaurants, breweries, and a famous Mast General Store that features an eclectic selection of souvenirs and candy. Here are the best places to live near the mountains! Take a walk down Main Street past the Swain County Heritage Museum and then turn up Everett Street to cross the bridge and look out over the river. WRITER: WNC Staff PHOTOGRAPHER: WNC Staff ILLUSTRATOR: WNC Staff Written by Jonathan Ammons, Jon Elliston, Tim W. Jackson, Randy Johnson & Melissa Reardon Sometimes, smaller is better. Were ending this list of beautiful mountains towns in NC with perhaps the most well known Asheville. Its bustling with incredible restaurants, shops, and an iconic courthouse on a hill. The main street is designed with tourists in mind, and is lined with cute shops, galleries, and covered walkways. What about you, though? But beyond the dramatic summit of Mount Mitchell, there are also waterfalls near BurnsvilleCrabtree Falls joins two near the base of Mount Mitchell (Setrock Creek Falls and Roaring Fork Falls). Trails are abundant for hiking and mountain biking to take in the scenic landscape. It is no secret that Boone is one of our favorite North Carolina mountain towns. ), How to See Elk River Falls (Trail and Safety Tips), 100+ Unique Things to Do in North Carolina, The Asheville Art Museum (How to Visit + 7 Great Things to Do), Winter in Boone (20 Great Activities, Snow Tubing, and More! See: Palmer-Marsh House, Bonner House, Pamlico River, Goose Creek State Park, Bath Creek Dine: Blackbeard's Slices & Ices, Old Town Country Kitchen Stay: The Inn on Bath Creek 03 of 19 Beaufort Charlotte Observer/Getty Images Population: 4,382 Each town has its own vibe and many unique outdoorsy things to do. ), 20 Excellent Things to Do in Cherokee and the Qualla Boundary (and Nearby! With Pendleton School of Craft nearby, theres also a thriving community for local art and handicrafts here. I hope Waynesville stays relatively small in comparison to Asheville which is getting very crowded. padding-right: 10px !important; My husband & I love West Jefferson. Of course, they can serve as the perfect base for some of the best hiking trails and the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina. Boone Boone boasts a vibrant and active outdoor adventure scene. Views over the rolling mountains are spectacular, and some of the best in the area. text-decoration: underline There is a lot to discover when you live in North Carolina mountain towns. Its a picture-perfect pick with plenty of kitsch to go around. The town's lovely architecture and historic buildings set it apart from others in the area. The Ramble Biltmore Forest, Asheville. Davidson. Joyce Kilmer Forest, the Cherohala Skyway, Nantahala National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Lake Santeetlah are nearby.Sedgwick Claims Management Services Lexington, Ky Contact Number,
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