Great place to visit! Jump Off Rock is a great scenic overlook that sits in Laurel Park, 15 minutes outside of downtown Hendersonville. 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.. 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. Old Fort is another of our North Carolina small towns off I-40, best known for gold and Catawba Falls. Dont miss walking across the Flowering Bridge, a beautiful blooming garden that spans the Rocky Broad River. Not to be outshone by the National Park, Bryson City manages to be an experience all its own! Its historic and Swiss-style architecture adds to its charm. Morganton is charming town in the foothills surrounded by beautiful scenery and outdoor adventure opportunities. Our weekly newsletter shares weekly updates and tips on upcoming events. 6. ), these are the best mountain towns in America. Burnsville is one of the best North Carolina mountain towns for exploring the outdoors. It is no wonder that Brevard is one of the best North Carolina mountain towns. 5 Pinehurst at No. Be sure to spot their most famous residents as well, the thriving population of White Squirrels. Read More: 50+ Great Things to Do in Asheville (Downtown, Biltmore, and More!). With its very own beach, you can relax on the sandy shores and enjoy a refreshing dip into the cool, shimmering waters. Information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. .generate-back-to-top:visited { Youll enjoy walking on its brick sidewalks while admiring the towns historic buildings. 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. We definitely recommend stopping at Whiteside Brewing for a pint and a burger (or wings!). Notably, Flat Rock also has the Carl Sandburg National Historic Site, the famed Pulitzer Prize authors home. For the inside scoop on where to go, see our guide to the Top Rivers for Trout Fishing in North Carolina. Night or day, this city never ceases to amaze. Cities across North Carolina round out the top 10, including several in the western part of the state: Hickory at No.
The 15 Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Visit As many of the stately properties in this mountain area also enjoy stunning waterfront views, its the best of both worlds to be surrounded by the natural beauty. Dont forget to visit Dry Falls, an accessible waterfall that you can walk behind. At 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is home to awesome views but also, some pretty great ski resorts. Its one of many falls along the famed Waterfall Byway. In winter, Blowing Rock can be a nice place to base yourself if you are skiing at nearby Appalachian Ski Mountain just a few minutes away. Morganton is one of the easternmost North Carolina mountain towns well mention. } t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)}(window, 13 Best Small Towns in Western North Carolina: Sometimes, smaller is better. Its largely known as the Moonshine Capital of the World, with those spirits practically married to our mountains (along with stock car racing). 2 Marion at No. It's also the apple capital of North Carolina and one of the largest apple-producing counties in America. 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. From the mountains to the coast, North Carolina's charming cities and stunning natural areas lure visitors and residents from around the world. This stunning area is home to nearly 520,000 acres of forested mountains. } ); 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. 1 Sylva. 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. This classic mountain town is only 45 minutes from Asheville and is located right along Pisgah National Forest. Let us know in the comments section, as always.
The 10 Cheapest Places To Live In North Carolina For 2022 - HomeSnacks Access to Roan Mountain goes through Bakersville and you can also enjoy the Toe Rivers waters here. Its also known for The Diamondback, a road full of dangerous curves and beautiful vistas, popular among many daring drivers. 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. 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. Catch some incredible views from Lovers Leap, a 2-mile loop with a gain of 500 feet in elevation. 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. 15 Best Small Towns in North Carolina - Great Small Towns to Visit and Live In NC 1 Best Easy, Cheap Dinner Ideas for Your Family 2 42 Best Bedroom Paint Color Ideas for 2023 3 Early Spring Flowers Will Combat the Winter Blues 4 What Our Editors Bought and Loved in February 5 Dad Jokes To Keep the Whole Family Laughing
North Carolina's 6 Best Mountain Towns - This Is My South Regardless of your religious views, Fields of the Wood (a massive representation of the 10 Commandments) is an interesting place to visit. Read More: 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Maggie Valley. min-width: 310px; There are many magnificent properties to select as a summer vacation home or a cozy winter getaway for the holidays to relax and recharge. Read More: Christmas in North Carolina (the Best Holiday Events). .ai-viewport-3 { display: none !important;} padding-left: 10px !important; Brevard is frequently ranked as one of the best small towns in WNC, and it's for good reason. This vacation destination is located on the eastern edge of the Plateau region near Sapphire Valley. Its main attractions, including the darling historic downtown, the . It is no secret that Boone is one of our favorite North Carolina mountain towns. Browse the bustling Main Street; brick sidewalks dotted with historic homes and many storefronts ideal for a day of shopping until you drop. . !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s){if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function(){n.callMethod? Dont forget to visit our favorite waterfalls in Cherokee: Mingo Falls and nearby Soco Falls. This is another popular destination in winter for skiers, particularly families. Read More: The Best NC Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes. The last one is an amazing introduction to the latter state park. Nights are much warmer if you are camping, and when the trees at the top of the mountains are just getting their buds, this area is lush and in full bloom. Enjoy Wake Forest's many restaurants, museums, galleries, concerts, and more. Main Street is a mix of restaurants and retail shops, including a disproportionate number of bookstores considering the size of the town. Read More: Winter in Boone (20 Great Activities, Snow Tubing, and More!).
Mountain town named top place for retirees in North Carolina Black Mountain has a little bit of something for everyone. New River Brewing is one of a few great places to grab some food and a beer. Asheville lies at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains, the highest portion of the Appalachian Range. Little Switzerland is a Blue Ridge Parkway NC mountain town that packs quite the punch! .content-area a { All of these mountain towns in NC possess something unique, which is why we cant choose our favorite. The thriving healthcare sector will give you access to all the medical resources you might need.
25 Best Mountain Towns in the U.S. - PureWow - PureWow: Women's This gives the area a hip youthfulness that many find appealing. Burnsville is an authentic mountain experience with an artistic flair. The Valdese Recreation Department oversees five parks in the area but we think you must visit McGalliard Falls. At the same time, Chattanooga has many urban pleasures, including dining and entertainment options, a wide variety of public.
Moving to North Carolina | Living in North Carolina - Livability 2. Its downtown is packed with shops and restaurants galore (Old World Baking Company for starters), but theres also some outdoor fun to find here. A handful of breweries and Burntshirt Vineyards (one of the states best wineries) is also here and waiting for you to stop by. Waynesville is the largest town in its county and is a hopping spot to host any mountain traveler. Climb to the top of Mount Jefferson to take in the views overlooking the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. Its also home to the only fly-fishing trail in the country on the Tuckasegee River, making this activity quite a draw. Boone is a haven of natural wonders offering an, Warren LeMay from Cincinnati, OH, United States, click for interactive map of the Best North Carolina Mountain Towns, 15 Best Bryson City Restaurants You Need to Try! Black Mountain features quaint shops, impressive restaurants (including Phils Bar-B-Que Pit! .ai-viewport-3 { display: inherit !important;} /***Mediavine Sidebar Fix***/
The 10 Best Places To Live In North Carolina For 2022 - HomeSnacks 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. 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. Its a picture-perfect pick with plenty of kitsch to go around. #1 in Best Mountain Towns to Visit in the USA For a mountain getaway the whole family will enjoy, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is an ideal destination. ), Maggie Valley draws tons of tourists each year. 1. Except here, you can taste delicious wine and take some home with you. Let us know what piques your interest or just tell us what your dream home looks like in your vision. Once a mining hub has now become a top vacation destination as part of the Plateau region of western North Carolina. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops. 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. 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). Weve created many more NC travel guides that include these mountain towns in more detail. 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. With only about 500 people living here, its main draw is the eponymous natural thermal mineral baths. This is one of those very tiny North Carolina mountain towns that packs big personality. That last part is why Wilkes County is also home to the first-ever NASCAR track. This gives the area a hip youthfulness that many find appealing. Its proximity to many NC ski resorts makes it especially alluring for the winter seasons as well. Hendersonville hosts the annual NC Apple Festival. The last of the North Carolina mountain towns well mention is Wilkesboro. The Lovers Leap Trail offers sweeping views over the entire town. Youll also encounter a thriving art community through the Toe River Arts and awesome barn quilt trails! With a population of about 14,000 people, you can find everything you need here, minus crowds, traffic, and parking hassles. My husband & I love West Jefferson. padding-right: 10px !important; ), 25+ Beautiful North Carolina Road Trips (Scenic Byways and Highways), Max Patch Trail (A Short Hike to Beautiful 360-Degree Views! Its not so much a town, and is definitely a city in North Carolina.
North Carolina: Live Skycams as severe weather moves in 12 Adorable North Carolina Mountain Towns You Should Visit - TheTravel You forgot to mention that it is home to Lees-McRae College! 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. One of the largest North Carolina mountain towns on this list, we absolutely love all the fun things to do in Hendersonville. 4. That scenic route is another reason we rank Highlands among the best mountain towns in NC! If youre a literary lover, Sylva is a great getaway. } Mica Gallery is one of a few spaces that showcase local artists from here and surrounding counties. As a university town, the population reaches heights of around 20,000. 4 Roxboro at No. 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. Madison County seat Marshall sits just north of Asheville and Buncombe County. Appalachian Ski Resort is just minutes away and is a top destination for snowboarders and young skiers. There. Dont forget that Burnsville is home to a great restaurant scene, which you can explore downtown and beyond! You can take a side-trip to the not-mountain town of Charlotte and learn about its history at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. The rustic charm of Cashiers honors the regions former prominence in the timber industry. Hampstead NC. Just outside the town, you can find the famous Grandfather Mountain and its Mile High Swinging Bridge. Its also where you can see the spectacular Soco Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina. Head here for one of the most romantic weekends in North Carolina. Theres a bit of a dispute that we wont get into, but Old Forts Gold Festival typically kicks off each June. Set on a high plateau, some of its surrounding peaks boast breathtaking views. Each of our North Carolina mountain towns has its own personality and charm, offering an authentic Appalachian experience unlike any other. padding-left: 10px; If you want to look like a local, hit up the popular watering hole, the Daily Grind & Wine. Read More: How to See the EPIC Rainbow Falls. Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. .ai-viewport-2 { display: inherit !important;} It's an outstanding alternative for those . 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. 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. 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. Along with multiple parks, the area is the ideal location for camping, boating, fishing, or cycling.
19 Beautiful Mountain Towns in North Carolina (For Your Next Vacation!) Boone boasts a vibrant and active outdoor adventure scene. See our article on the Best Ski Resorts in North Carolina for ideas to help plan your ski vacation. We are surrounded by wonderful small towns throughout North Carolina (especially historic ones! Brevard has a pleasant feel about it. /***Move Back to Top Button***/ Bald Head Island, NC 28461, USA. Read More: The Asheville Art Museum (How to Visit + 7 Great Things to Do). This area is also home to the Toe River, a popular place for trout fishing, and artists of all types who have taken up residence in this region. 9. Youll encounter galleries galore downtown, among specialty shops, fine fares, and craft beverages. One of the town's major annual events is the Folkmoot International Dance & Music Festival, held over a 10-day stretch in July. .inside-footer-widgets a { 14. Read More: Max Patch Trail (A Short Hike to Beautiful 360-Degree Views!). Its bustling with incredible restaurants, shops, and an iconic courthouse on a hill. If you'd like to learn more visit the about us page. A walk around the Village Green reveals gardens, outdoor sculptures, and a plethora of pleasing storefronts. Read More: How to Find 20+ Haywood County Artists on Blue Ridge Craft Trails. .ai-viewport-2 { display: none !important;} Here are the best places to live near the mountains! Hi Marguerite, the goats are at the Carl Sandburg home in Flat Rock. ), 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! The Trail of Faith explores this heritage through a collection of preserved monuments and buildings. Flat Rock is also where you can find one of the most popular places for apple picking in North Carolina, Sky Top Orchard. } Bakersville is the Mitchell County seat and one of many arts-heavy communities in the area. Add to that a good selection of restaurants, many with outdoor patios in summer; hotels; and attractions; and it's not surprising you frequently hear people describing Hendersonville as the best small town in North Carolina. Youll find stunning waterfalls and spectacular North Carolina hikes all right outside your doorstep in this small mountain town. Highlands, North Carolina. Its surrounding landscape makes it one of the prettiest mountain towns and also one of the most popular. Hot Springs is one of the most adorable North Carolina mountain communities, best known for its hot mineral springs. It includes some of the top wild places in western North Carolina, such as Catawba Falls, Andrews Geyser, and Point Lookout. "version": "7.4.0", Pearsons Falls is also nearby. Regardless of the season, the Chetola Resort is a wonderful accommodation option. 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! You might say its a Foothills or Piedmont town, but well argue otherwise. As such, it offers an amazing assortment of natural feats to discover. Fishing in North Carolina: The mountains are also a great place for fishing. text-decoration: underline This wonderful (and family-friendly) music festival brings in big names each year. About Catawba Falls, we think youll love the 2.3-mile hike that leads to the 100-ft tall waterfall with beautiful cascades. 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. (NC), Hanging Rock State Park Ultimate Travel Guide, 10 BEST Things to do in Waynesville (North Carolina), 15 Amazing Things to Do in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. The lake, actually a reservoir near Cashiers, is home to a number of sought after fish like Largemouth Bass and Rainbow Trout. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Blowing Rock. Her days were spent reading a book on the beach and enjoying a cold glass of sweet tea in between classes at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. With a mere 5,000 residents, this community certainly fits the bill when discussing the places best suited to those seeking a small-town style of living. Its also home to New River Brewing for the finest craft beer and pub grub. 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. Our aim is to help you get the most out of your travel around the Carolinas. 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. Beaufort County COUNTY POPULATION: 46,994 SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 24.6% Located between Ashville and Cherokee, this town near the Great Smokey Mountains National Park and the, Blowing Rock is a charming hamlet tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. To ease your search, weve organized these NC mountain towns in alphabetical order. Affiliate links linking to products we love may be found in our articles. One contributing factor to the overall safety of Western NC may be the small size of the towns and cities here. Home - North Carolina - NC Mountains - 32 BEST North Carolina Mountain Towns. An all-natural water slide, you can rush down this smooth rapid for a refreshing thrill ride unlike any other. This article may contain affiliate links. Check out Toe River Arts, the Design Gallery, and the Quilt Block Trails.
The 24 Best Mountain Towns in the U.S., Ranked - Outside Online .ai-viewport-1 { display: inherit !important;} } Advertisement. Feel free to browse the available properties on our website and contact us if you see something you love. These affordable towns could be your next home or vacation home!
What Are the Best Mountain Towns to Raise a Family in America These two streets are also home to numerous shops and restaurants. Take in the views overlooking the charming downtown from Sunset Rock. This small and gorgeous mountain town in North Carolina is a haven for food, culture, and outdoor adventure, and of course, for those seeking a laid-back mountain life that's not far from awesome attractions. Come explore the best mountain towns in NC! If you are looking for easy access to the Smoky Mountains, it doesn't . The history of Cashiers showcases the rich heritage of several buildings circa 1800s that have been restored overtime and are still in use today. Saluda is a popular spot for rafting and tubing along the Green River. 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. Maggie Valley is a true tourist town just over 30 minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with all kinds of accommodation, including campgrounds, and a number of things to do. It is a fantastic place to live for those who enjoy nature and the outdoors. Enjoy creekside beers at BearWaters Brewing, dance at Stompin Ground, and zoom through the iconic Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum.
best places to live in south carolina mountains It is a popular tourist destination as well, so developing tourism . Home to less than 500 people, Bakersville was founded to mine its wealth of mica deposits. Ranging in size and shape, North Carolina mountain towns come packed with unique attractions and wait with warm, welcoming smiles.
Best Lake Communities in North Carolina Lake Glenville is a very popular summer vacation spot with several vacation homes available in Glenville and in the nearby Cashiers and Highlands communities. A perfect getaway in an idyllic private setting welcomes all to the tranquil Lake Toxaway. For such a small town, the selection and quality of restaurants is impressive. 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. The Macon County Gemboree is one of the most widely known gem shows in the entire country.