You can turn in a circle to see the mountains. Fans of fly fishing may have already heard of Sylva. Ranging in size and shape, North Carolina mountain towns come packed with unique attractions and wait with warm, welcoming smiles. 4 Roxboro at No. Wilmington was also founded in the first half of the 18th century by colonists, so it has a number of historical buildings. READ MORE: The Top 20 Blue Ridge Mountain Towns in GA & NC Best Western NC Small Towns Guide Weaverville Black Mountain Brevard Hendersonville Saluda Burnsville Hot Springs Morganton Chimney Rock Village Banner Elk Blowing Rock West Jefferson Elkin Sparta Boone Beech Mountain Bryson City Cherokee Maggie Valley Murphy Sylva Dillsboro Franklin Dillsboro is one of the coolest mountain towns to discover. Highlands, North Carolina. 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. Experience a mountain resort atmosphere in Sapphire Valley. The last town before the Nantahala National Forest and Parks, Bryson City pops up out of nowhere in a valley between some of North Carolina's most incredible outdoor spaces and stunning waterfalls.. Dont forget that Burnsville is home to a great restaurant scene, which you can explore downtown and beyond! Black Mountain features quaint shops, impressive restaurants (including Phils Bar-B-Que Pit! The 3,800-acre development has nearly half the land set aside in conservation areas including lakes, waterfalls, woodlands and hiking trails. Its known as the gateway to the Blue Ridge mountains. .content-area a { Discover destinations, find outdoor adventures, follow the journeys of our travel writers around the world, and be inspired. If you simply want a relaxing getaway, you can find it here any time of year. One of the largest North Carolina mountain towns on this list, we absolutely love all the fun things to do in Hendersonville. Between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains, visitors will find charming downtowns with local shops and restaurants as well as cozy inns and cabins. With Watauga River running through, its also a haven for anglers seeking out that coveted rainbow trout. It's famous for its' "all American" Main Street, but it offers so much more. } ); Use it as a base for nearby hikes and waterfalls, rides on the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, or just relax in luxury at Biltmore Estate or The Omni Grove Park Inn. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Bryson City. After, six years of international travel they settled down and launched Lost in the Carolinas to share their experiences about and travel tips on South Carolina and North Carolina. Its a picture-perfect pick with plenty of kitsch to go around. text-decoration: none Read More: How to Find 20+ Haywood County Artists on Blue Ridge Craft Trails. We welcome you to the North Carolina mountains; we know youll just love it here! Accommodation: Where to Stay in Waynesville. Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Bryson City is well-known for hiking and river recreation. Couples may want to book a room at the romantic B&B-style Bob Timberlake Inn, while families looking for more living space can opt for the Chetola Premium Condominiums. Conveniently located on the lake carrying the same name, this popular location is definitely one of the best mountain towns to live in California.Surrounded by Sierra Nevada mountains, it's known for nearby ski resorts, beautiful restaurants, cozy bars, and breathtaking lake views.. Beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a great vibe. The downtown area has many restored buildings and interesting shops, and you'll have no trouble finding a place for lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants. .ai-viewport-3 { display: none !important;} Here are a few of them. North Conway, New Hampshire. The Macon County Gemboree is one of the most widely known gem shows in the entire country. Its also home to one of the coolest distilleries in the state, Oak & Grist. 7. One of our absolute favorite North Carolina mountain towns is Maggie Valley, a consistent family vacation spot. Awesome to hear, Rebecca! Historic Biltmore Estate is one of the. Its easy to relocate to North Carolina and youll be convinced of that after talking to our Relocation Director, Karen Danner, who can assist you with every detail of your move to North Carolina. Be sure to stop by the scenic Lake Sequoyah and of course, the many natural wonders that surround Highlands. "agent": "woocommerce-7.4.0-3.0.12" } 9. While in the area, dont miss out on Apple Hill Farm, an ethical and working alpaca farm! Grandfather Vineyard is one of many nice spots along the water. Streets here are rampant with a retro nostalgia, for a unique feel unlike anywhere else. Bryson City is a great gateway if youre looking to explore the expansive Great Smoky Mountains. The Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum is a testament to this moniker, set in a 19th-century jailhouse. Festivals are a big deal in Highlands, especially those hosted in the fall which feature arts & crafts, the annual Halloween celebration, and the Culinary Weekend. Many people come to this waterfall every year as the trail is an almost entirely flat gravel road. Whether you ski or not, this small town of approximately 1,000 people, is an appealing destination with a village atmosphere and plenty of reasons to visit. ), but theres just something extra special about those found in and around our North Carolina mountains. Near Beech Mountain skiing and Grandfather Mountain hiking. The old-fashioned charm of Maggie Valley is a refreshing escape to a slowed-down era of simplicity. For a mixture of small-town roots and modern comforts, Boone is a great balance of the two. Jump Off Rock is a great scenic overlook that sits in Laurel Park, 15 minutes outside of downtown Hendersonville. Its a setting rich with rocks and minerals, ideal for any geology buffs looking for a scenic retreat. 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. Cities across North Carolina round out the top 10, including several in the western part of the state: Hickory at No. Asheville is one of the state's most popular vacation destinations with its funky Bohemian vibe and prime location in the southern Blue Ridge Mountains. n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments)};if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; The history of Cashiers showcases the rich heritage of several buildings circa 1800s that have been restored overtime and are still in use today. padding-left: 10px; Cute shops and a variety of restaurants, some with summertime outdoor patios set beneath huge leafy trees, line Main Street. Its original town limits are now a historic district where tourists can visit historical homes. Boones truly a four-season destination: they boast hiking and waterfalls in spring through fall and world-class skiing in the winter. Located in western North Carolina on what is known as the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau in the Nantahala National Forest, Highlands has been called "the Aspen of the East.". 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. You can view Fontana Lake in Graham County, too, though another spot is near Bryson Citys Road to Nowhere. 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. .generate-back-to-top, padding-right: 10px !important; Its downtown is home to nice shops, a cozy atmosphere, and great restaurants. The North Carolina mountains are renowned for offering up a charming slice of small-town life and local culture, including everything from moonshine and bluegrass music to country cooking and . Its a lovely scene, as the falls join a recreated grist mill, perfect to watch during a picnic. The main street is designed with tourists in mind, and is lined with cute shops, galleries, and covered walkways. Browse the bustling Main Street; brick sidewalks dotted with historic homes and many storefronts ideal for a day of shopping until you drop. Cherokee is home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and one of our favorite small mountain towns in NC. The tallest dam in the Eastern US, Fontana Dam, is one of the more popular spots in Graham County, too. Trails are abundant for hiking and mountain biking to take in the scenic landscape. It also helps that you can refuel at one of Asheville's many innovative restaurants and breweries. Begin with our list of the best mountain towns in North Carolina. Frostys in Ashe County is one of our favorite Christmas tree farms in North Carolina. 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. Main Street is a mix of restaurants and retail shops, including a disproportionate number of bookstores considering the size of the town. Its a hotspot for entertainment, with music at the Folkmoot, the acclaimed HART Theater, and Mountain Street Dances every Friday night. ), The Best Black Mountains Hikes near Burnsville, 20+ Kid-Friendly Waterfalls In NC (Easy Hikes And Swimming Holes! Night or day, this city never ceases to amaze. Feel free to browse the available properties on our website and contact us if you see something you love. Information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. Asheville lies at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains, the highest portion of the Appalachian Range. Youll also enjoy walking around and stepping into local shops, art studios, and more here. Do you have a favorite place you like to go or is there one that stands out among the rest? Then there is The Cullasaja Falls, about nine miles outside of Highlands, which is only visible by car. While much of the Blue Ridge Parkway closes during inclement winter weather, Otter Falls near Boone is a beautiful hike, especially if theres snow down there! Banner Elk. The majestic peaks of the Blue Ridge Parkway, charming towns offering luxurious properties with panoramic beauty are just a few of the reasons that many seek out the best place to live in the North Carolina mountains. The Emerald Village complex hosts 12 mines for gem and gold panning seven days a week from spring through fall. Not to be outshone by the National Park, Bryson City manages to be an experience all its own! Sapphire Valley is tucked away in a scenic niche of the North Carolina mountains but offers visitors an experience like none other. Outdoor lovers can enjoy wonderful hikes and viewpoints in the surrounding Yancey County area, including those on nearby Mt. Its a town with a rich cultural heritage and an amazing area to learn more about these native peoples. Read More: 25+ Beautiful North Carolina Road Trips (Scenic Byways and Highways). Larry Lamb/Wikimedia. Creekside cabins, glamping tents, resort hotels you can find them all in the best Smoky Mountain towns. ), Hendersonville NC Map of Attractions (+ 5 Surrounding Counties! My favorite is Waynesville because I live there. Floating high at 3,700 feet is one of the best NC mountain townsBanner Elk. Set on the edge of the Yadkin Valley, there are also an array of award-winning wineries nearby. We definitely recommend stopping at Whiteside Brewing for a pint and a burger (or wings!). Burnsville is one of the best North Carolina mountain towns for exploring the outdoors. Include stops in Valdese (more on it later), Connelly Springs, and other great smaller towns. 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. /***Move Back to Top Button***/ Pearsons Falls is also nearby. This is a haven for hikers to set off on the trails of either Gorges State Park or in a portion of the Panthertown Valley. We also love that town and cant wait to go back:). 14. .ai-viewports {--ai: 1;} The tree-lined Main Street in the upscale downtown is filled with charming stores and tourist shops. From old standbys such as Aspen and Stowe to a few spots you've probably never even heard of (what's up, Hamburg? Named for its likeness to the Swiss Alps, the Switzerland Inn is a century-old resort catering to this concept. } Best North Carolina Mountain Towns Guide Banner Elk Blowing Rock Boone Brevard Bryson City Burnsville Cherokee Franklin Hendersonville Hot Springs Morganton Murphy Sylva Weaverville West Jefferson Downtown Banner Elk NC, photo by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett 1. Read More: Hendersonville NC Map of Attractions (+ 5 Surrounding Counties!). Its surrounding landscape makes it one of the prettiest mountain towns and also one of the most popular. 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 Grandfather Vineyard is one of many nice spots along the water. Brevard is frequently ranked as one of the best small towns in WNC, and it's for good reason. My favorite is Flat Rock because I am a resident. 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. Copyright 2023 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. At the same time, Chattanooga has many urban pleasures, including dining and entertainment options, a wide variety of public. From the mountains to the coast, North Carolina's charming cities and stunning natural areas lure visitors and residents from around the world. The fresh air calls most outside to enjoy nature. Mount Airy, a.k.a. $( document.body ).append( '
' ); Skiing in North Carolina: With elevations that exceed 5,000 feet and extensive snowmaking equipment, the mountains of North Carolina offer excellent opportunities for skiing. .ai-viewport-2 { display: none !important;} padding-right: 10px; Dont forget to visit Dry Falls, an accessible waterfall that you can walk behind. Livability Asheville, NC Read the Magazine. Tryons reputation as an equestrian haven and arts enclave is revered. It is a popular tourist destination as well, so developing tourism . Each town has its own vibe and many unique outdoorsy things to do. A walk around the Village Green reveals gardens, outdoor sculptures, and a plethora of pleasing storefronts. Robbinsville is surrounded by some wonderful places both natural and manmade. If you prefer to spend your day being pampered, there are some excellent spas in the area. jQuery && jQuery( function( $ ) { Franklin is known as the gem capital of the world. Its bustling with incredible restaurants, shops, and an iconic courthouse on a hill. Tryon International Equestrian Center is a world-class facility for horse racing and riding. The city is named after pioneer Daniel Boone and has breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. } Dont forget Catawba Brewing is based here for a cold refreshing craft pint post-adventure. One of the top things to do in the summer is to catch the long running outdoor drama, Horn in the West. A glistening lakefront community in North Carolina, Connestee Falls is home to an 18-hole golf course and other established lifestyle amenities that are fully owned and operated by the residents. You can see Table Rock Mountain, one of the most incredible hikes in the area, from downtown Morganton. Advertisement. We enjoyed renting a cabin house with our grandson & children, the young children walking in the New River & my husband & I kayking. The busy Main Street is lined with covered sidewalks, and is an ideal place for a bit of retail therapy. Even though it's primarily known for movie-like beaches, California is also a great mountain destination. #right-sidebar { .ai-viewport-3 { display: inherit !important;} Linville Falls and High Shoal Falls are both close by and worth a visit. Filled with shops, boutiques, and the beautiful Village Green, there is always something to explore in this lovely town. You can also walk to Blannahassett Island and fish or enjoy views of the French Broad River. The most recent of a long list of awards was Community of the Year by the Asheville Builders Association (ABA). 4. One contributing factor to the overall safety of Western NC may be the small size of the towns and cities here. Boone Boone boasts a vibrant and active outdoor adventure scene. .wp-block-button a { Natasha moved to North Carolina for college years ago (but she's not trying to age herself here). Emerald Outback has plenty of trails to trek through dense old-growth forests, lush fields, and babbling mountain brooks in the warmer months. 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. The compact downtown is replete with restored old brick buildings housing interesting restaurants, art shops, and stores. text-decoration: none Bakersville is the Mitchell County seat and one of many arts-heavy communities in the area. } Saluda is a popular spot for rafting and tubing along the Green River. Beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a great vibe. } } The median home price in Ayden is 127,400 and the median income is $53,317, giving Ayden a solid ratio of home price to income. At Lake Lure, get the best of mountain and lake life by going boating, biking the trails at Buffalo Creek Park, or climbing to the top of Chimney Rock. Lake Glenville has the distinction of being the lake with the highest elevation east of the Mississippi River. As a university town, the population reaches heights of around 20,000. Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, 100+ Wonderful Places to Visit in Western North Carolina, Western North Carolina Map (400+ Wonderful Places Listed), 50+ Great Things to Do in Asheville (Downtown, Biltmore, and More! 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. Asheville may be the best-known destination in the mountains of North Carolina, but Hendersonville is a wonderful small-town alternative. 5. Dont miss walking across the Flowering Bridge, a beautiful blooming garden that spans the Rocky Broad River. 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. } Lake Glenville is a very popular summer vacation spot with several vacation homes available in Glenville and in the nearby Cashiers and Highlands communities. Dry Falls along Highway 64 where visitors can walk behind a beautiful 75-foot waterfall. Highlands attracts those looking for a quaint atmosphere, in this hidden mountain gem. Begin with our list of the best mountain towns in North Carolina. @media only screen and (min-width: 769px) { The Wilkes Art Gallery is one of many reasons to visit NW, along with a variety of events happening throughout each year there. .wp-show-posts a { The simple and slowed-down atmosphere of these magical enclaves makes for an ideal relaxing respite from the real world. Sitting on the North Carolina-Tennessee border, right before the Tuckasegee River runs right, Bryson City is definitely one of our favorite North Carolina mountain towns! But, with only 12,920 full time residents, there aren't a lot of people to get the word out. Shown below in no particular order are 12 of our favorites. Similar lists have been published by other websites, including this one that also includes Boone, Brevard, and Morganton. @media (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 979px) { For rare historical mountain artifacts, check out Swain County Heritage Museum. the inspiration for Mayberry in The Andy Griffith Show, is a time capsule of midcentury small-town America. Asheville is one of the coolest mountain towns in NC and by population, its the biggest in this guide. fbq( 'track', 'PageView', { IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers' personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Spruce Pine is a nice spot throughout the year, but two events here are really coolthe NC Mineral and Gem Festival in August and SPACE (Spruce Pine Alien Conference & Expo) in June. We have been writing about travel for the last decade. } Our love story begins in Wilmington, where we met while attending UNCW. Regardless of the season, the Chetola Resort is a wonderful accommodation option. Catering to both the summer crowds who come here to visit the park, and the winter crowds, who are often skiers and boarders who come to enjoy the slopes of nearby Cataloochee Ski Resort, this small town offers everything you need and more. At, For a relatively small town, there are some fantastic restaurants in Waynesville, North Carolina. 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. If you are heading to the coast, you may want to have a read through our article on Deep Sea Fishing in North Carolina. Just recently voted in the top 10 places to retire in North Carolina, Black Mountain is nearby Asheville and has a tiny population of just under 8,000 residents. Rolling hills surround the town, and the Tuckasegee River runs through the middle. This town nestled amongst the foothills is rich in history and architecture. One of the town's major annual events is the Folkmoot International Dance & Music Festival, held over a 10-day stretch in July. The selection and quality of its culinary scene are impressive given its size, so be ready to enjoy some fine foodie fares during your stay here. Among its many quirky independent storefronts, its downtown is lousy with independent and adorable book stores. Its an ideal setting for any wild wanderings in the local landscape. Cashiers is the gateway to one of our favorite NC mountain escapes, Bear Lake Reserve. One of the big attractions, just outside of town, is Grandfather Mountain and its mile-high swing bridge, one of the top sites in North Carolina. Mitchell Crafts Fair and the Burnsville Metric, a popular bike ride held in late April. n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; Bald Head Island, NC 28461, USA. 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. Known as the home of the White Squirrel (and annual festival! Twitter Stately homes can be found along the residential streets, a few of which have been converted into romantic B&Bs. It is a fantastic place to live for those who enjoy nature and the outdoors. To ease your search, weve organized these NC mountain towns in alphabetical order. Today, Cashiers is home to only a few hundred full-time residents but is a much sought out vacation destination. It also offers some of the best birdwatching around. There is a happening scene of Boone breweries and Boone bistros to indulge in and an overarching focus on sustainability. RELATED The 12 Most Charming Small Towns in South Carolina Mark Vandenberg 1. Nearby Sugar Mountain Ski Resort and Beech Mountain Ski Resort attract skiers from across the state and regions farther south, and many of them make their base Banner Elk. Right next door to the happening city of Asheville, Weaverville has become its own desirable destination. There are several opportunities for guests to learn about the history and culture of the tribe. document,'script','https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); Its a small town that harkens back to simpler times with vintage signs and brick buildings. Read More: The Asheville Art Museum (How to Visit + 7 Great Things to Do). You'll also find some of the best retirement communities in North Carolina. Just outside the town, you can find the famous Grandfather Mountain and its Mile High Swinging Bridge. Overall SnackAbility. On the edge of the town is Soco Falls. Read More: The Best Black Mountains Hikes near Burnsville. They hold the renowned Steeplechase each Spring. 5. Morganton is one of the easternmost North Carolina mountain towns well mention. The last of the North Carolina mountain towns well mention is Wilkesboro. We dont want to leave out North Wilkesboro, the countys largest town, before moving on. Beautiful Boone, North Carolina, is easily one of the most popular NC mountain towns to visit. Take in the views overlooking the charming downtown from Sunset Rock. Home to the Woolly Worm Festival in October, we can't get enough of this town, the amazing restaurants and shops here, and its gorgeous surroundings. Hike the easy Deep Creek Loop, go whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River from the Nantahala Outdoor Center, ride the scenic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, or get lost on the Road to Nowheretheres endless fun in Bryson City! The 5 Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Live In Real Estate Blog The majestic peaks of the Blue Ridge Parkway, charming towns offering luxurious properties with panoramic beauty are just a few of the reasons that many seek out the best place to live in the North Carolina mountains. Surrounded by rolling hills, it has many hikes for sweeping sights, such as the Nantahala Gorge. Every time we visit, we dream of our next home on a hillside in the High Country! My husband & I love West Jefferson. Hike around the Carl Sandburg Home in Flat Rock, NC. There are many magnificent properties to select as a summer vacation home or a cozy winter getaway for the holidays to relax and recharge. Home to the Woolly Worm Festival in October, we cant get enough of this town, the amazing restaurants and shops here, and its gorgeous surroundings. Each of our 12 Best Small Mountain Towns around Asheville has its own great Visitor's Center where you can plan your day. Mitchell. Take a horseback ride at Shady Grove Dude Ranch, see DeSoto Falls, and book a cabin rental to take in the mountain air. Stay at the historic Green Park Inn or luxurious Chetola Resort, but make sure you stop by the oldest attraction in North CarolinaThe Blowing Rock. The lake, actually a reservoir near Cashiers, is home to a number of sought after fish like Largemouth Bass and Rainbow Trout. Homes: $549K - $3.5M Lots: $69K - $450K. Hampstead NC. 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. You'll find everything from t-shirt shops to ski outfitters and restaurants here. Old Fort. While high in the mountains in North Carolinas western region, Lake Glenville has evolved into a paradise for anglers, especially those looking to reel in bass. 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. The water also calls anglers to cast their lines in a variety of streams great for fly fishing. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Morganton. There are museums, an arts center, a variety of shops, and over 30 restaurants, all quite impressive for their small stature. There are a plethora of charming small towns nestled among the majestic Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains of western North Carolina.Rear Coil Spring Boosters,
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