Table Rock Mountain is one of the best hikes around. Dont forget to visit Dry Falls, an accessible waterfall that you can walk behind. Dont forget Catawba Brewing is based here for a cold refreshing craft pint post-adventure. The town offers a surprising amount of accommodation and has a number of family-focused attractions. On the edge of the town is Soco Falls.
Best Places to Live in Western North Carolina: Where & Why Its also known for The Diamondback, a road full of dangerous curves and beautiful vistas, popular among many daring drivers. Overall SnackAbility. Highlands attracts those looking for a quaint atmosphere, in this hidden mountain gem. In summer, you may see people fishing. Experience a mountain resort atmosphere in Sapphire Valley. 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. Beaufort County COUNTY POPULATION: 46,994 SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 24.6% If youve heard of the Ashe County Cheese Factory, then you already know why West Jefferson is on this list.
The Best Places to Live in North Carolina in 2022 Valdese was settled by 19th-century Waldensians from Italy, giving it a unique identity apart from its neighbors. Morganton is charming town in the foothills surrounded by beautiful scenery and outdoor adventure opportunities. With a population of just over 1,000 people, the village atmosphere of Banner Elk makes it an appealing attraction. 3. Named for its likeness to the Swiss Alps, the Switzerland Inn is a century-old resort catering to this concept.
What Are the Best Mountain Towns to Raise a Family in America Browse the bustling Main Street; brick sidewalks dotted with historic homes and many storefronts ideal for a day of shopping until you drop. Take a horseback ride at Shady Grove Dude Ranch, see DeSoto Falls, and book a cabin rental to take in the mountain air. See our article on the Best Ski Resorts in North Carolina for ideas to help plan your ski vacation. ), 25+ Beautiful North Carolina Road Trips (Scenic Byways and Highways), Max Patch Trail (A Short Hike to Beautiful 360-Degree Views! text-decoration: underline
19 Beautiful Mountain Towns in North Carolina (For Your Next Vacation!) Join me to explore 5 NC Mountain Towns that you MUST visit! 1 Sylva. Saluda is a popular spot for rafting and tubing along the Green River. The top of Lookout Mountain is just a 15-minute drive from downtown.
11 Top Places to Visit in the North Carolina Mountains Its a hotspot for entertainment, with music at the Folkmoot, the acclaimed HART Theater, and Mountain Street Dances every Friday night. Grandfather Vineyard is one of many nice spots along the water. Read More: Winter in Boone (20 Great Activities, Snow Tubing, and More!). 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. It includes some of the top wild places in western North Carolina, such as Catawba Falls, Andrews Geyser, and Point Lookout.
Affordable Mountain Towns for Retirement - WTOP News Old Fort is set at the foot of the Black Mountains and surrounded by Pisgah National Forest. Next on our list of the best cities to live in North Carolina is the Inner Banks community of Greenville. 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. If youve heard the saying From Murphy to Manteo, then you might already know that the former is the western end of US-64 in North Carolina. Filled with shops, boutiques, and the beautiful Village Green, there is always something to explore in this lovely town. Black Mountain has a little bit of something for everyone.
5 Gorgeous Mountain Towns You Can Actually Afford - Livability A significant number of people living in Cali go to a higher altitude. This stunning area is home to nearly 520,000 acres of forested mountains. The rustic charm of Cashiers honors the regions former prominence in the timber industry. One of the top summer attractions for families is Santa's Land Fun Park & Zoo, a large amusement park with rides and animals. Joyce Kilmer Forest, the Cherohala Skyway, Nantahala National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Lake Santeetlah are nearby. 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. Today, Cashiers is home to only a few hundred full-time residents but is a much sought out vacation destination. 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.
Madison County seat Marshall sits just north of Asheville and Buncombe County. The Diamondback (NC-226) is also a popular road for tourists and motorcyclists alike, famed for its incredible views.
2022 Best Cities to Live in North Carolina - UpNest ), Chimney Rock State Park (How to Enjoy an NC Icon), 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Maggie Valley, 75+ Fun Day Trips from Asheville (Within a 2-Hour Drive), 25 of the Most Amazing Winter Hikes in North Carolina, How to Find 20+ Haywood County Artists on Blue Ridge Craft Trails, Christmas in North Carolina (the Best Holiday Events), Craggy Gardens: A Beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway Stop, People of NC: Merlefest Director B Townes, Mingo Falls In Cherokee NC (a Great Waterfall + Easy Hike). One of the best small towns near Asheville - well, technically a village with a population under 3,400 people as of 2020 - Flat Rock is home to history, apples, and hiking. The heart of the area is the quaint town square.
12 Adorable North Carolina Mountain Towns You Should Visit - TheTravel Cities across North Carolina round out the top 10, including several in the western part of the state: Hickory at No. In the summer, these same ski hills feature downhill mountain bike courses for those fearless on two wheels. (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. While its a rare admission-required waterfall, the area around the 90-foot falls remains well-maintained. 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. 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. } ); Black Mountain features quaint shops, impressive restaurants (including Phils Bar-B-Que Pit! 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. A little over 1.5 hours from Asheville, just over two hours from Atlanta, and about three hours from Charlotte, Highlands is a beautiful town in the far southwest corner of North Carolina, not far from the South Carolina border. There are three breweries making some of the finest mountain drafts around. The iconic flower is an abundant symbol in this region of the state. 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. The old-fashioned charm of Maggie Valley is a refreshing escape to a slowed-down era of simplicity. For the inside scoop on where to go, see our guide to the Top Rivers for Trout Fishing in North Carolina. Similar lists have been published by other websites, including this one that also includes Boone, Brevard, and Morganton.
12 Best Small Towns in North Carolina for Southern Hospitality - Travel Head here for one of the most romantic weekends in North Carolina. Spruce Pine is about 15 minutes away from Little Switzerland and is full of fun to explore. This is the best of the North Carolina mountain towns to soak all your worries away. The Jackson County Courthouse stands proudly on the hill at the end of Main Street in the quaint town of Sylva. If youre feeling adventurous, you can even visit the nearby ghost town of Henry River. There are several ski resorts here if youre looking to hit the slopes and fantastic beer at Beech Mountain Resort. Cities are fun but sometimes it's nice to swap the busy roads for the peaceful streets of a small mountain town.
Affordable Mountain Towns for Retirement - US News & World Report jQuery && jQuery( function( $ ) { Enjoy creekside beers at BearWaters Brewing, dance at Stompin Ground, and zoom through the iconic Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum.
Our Favorite Small Towns in North Carolina - Southern Living All of these mountain towns in NC possess something unique, which is why we cant choose our favorite. 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. Climb to the top of Mount Jefferson to take in the views overlooking the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. }); Along with multiple parks, the area is the ideal location for camping, boating, fishing, or cycling. If you'd like to learn more visit the about us page. text-decoration: underline You can track severe weather with us by checking out these WXII . The town is also a junction for the Appalachian Trail, which winds through downtown. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops. If you are in town on a Friday, be sure to catch one of the free summer musical events taking place at Concerts on the Creek at the Bridge Park. Boone boasts a vibrant and active outdoor adventure scene. You'll find everything from t-shirt shops to ski outfitters and restaurants here. It's also the apple capital of North Carolina and one of the largest apple-producing counties in America. @media (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 979px) { For example, here are some facts about Crestline in the San Bernardino Mountains: Population: 10,770. Information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. There's a lot to do here, such as hiking the famous Appalachian Trail and rafting down the Cheoah River. text-decoration: none
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! } Grand Highlands encompasses 300 acres of woodlands and meadows. 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. 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.
Best Places to Live in North Carolina in 2022-2023 - U.S. News & World Just outside of the Great Smoky National Park sits the home of the eastern band of the indigenous Cherokee tribe.
32 BEST North Carolina Mountain Towns - Lost In The Carolinas Annual celebrations like the Elk Fest and Hillbilly Jamboree are reason enough to visit. The Tuckasegee River flows nearby and is regarded as a hot spot for trout and whitewater fish populations. Just a short distance off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Boone makes a nice place to stop for a night or an afternoon.
Top 9 Mountain Towns to Live in Tennessee - ezhomesearch.com One contributing factor to the overall safety of Western NC may be the small size of the towns and cities here. Yes, Colorado boasts its fair share of ski resort towns known for drawing the rich and famous: Aspen, Vail, Breckenridge , Telluride and the like. For a mixture of small-town roots and modern comforts, Boone is a great balance of the two. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Bryson City. The downtown is chock full of charming shops, restaurants, and Brevard breweries. Downtown Blowing Rock is home to adorable shops and restaurants, as well as the only urban entrance to a waterfall that weve seen in North Carolina (Glen Burney). Show Transcript.
2023 Compare Cities : Black Mountain, NC vs Elizabethtown, NC A number of great restaurants and breweries (including Fonta Flora) are based here, too. ), Hendersonville NC Map of Attractions (+ 5 Surrounding Counties! Among its many quirky independent storefronts, its downtown is lousy with independent and adorable book stores. Home - North Carolina - NC Mountains - 32 BEST North Carolina Mountain Towns. Fly fishing is a popular thing to do in Sylva. North Conway, New Hampshire. .ai-viewport-1 { display: none !important;} Just above Murphy and Cherokee County along the western edge of NC is Graham County, home to Robbinsville. There are a few hiking trails there, too, which are among the best in the area. This famous performance, running each summer since 1952, tells the story of Daniel Boone's adventures in the local area. 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. Many small towns in North Carolina claim to be the gateway to the Smoky Mountains, but Bryson City has a serious argument. Burnsville offers an authentic small-town experience, with a cute downtown area, where you can find shops, restaurants, and galleries lining the town square. So many great mountain towns to choose from! // Insert placeholder for events injected when a product is added to the cart through AJAX. This is another popular destination in winter for skiers, particularly families. } - 5/13/2022 I lived in Black Mountain for about ten years and loved it! The thriving healthcare sector will give you access to all the medical resources you might need. 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. . Residents enjoy natural settings with a wellness center with a pool and tennis court, parks, playgrounds, trails, outdoor/indoor gathering spaces for community . The lake, actually a reservoir near Cashiers, is home to a number of sought after fish like Largemouth Bass and Rainbow Trout. Blowing Rock and Boone are often talked about together because they are so closebut so different! You'll also find some of the best retirement communities in North Carolina. Read More: Max Patch Trail (A Short Hike to Beautiful 360-Degree Views!). Stately homes can be found along the residential streets, a few of which have been converted into romantic B&Bs. Morganton is one of the easternmost North Carolina mountain towns well mention. This vacation destination is located on the eastern edge of the Plateau region near Sapphire Valley. 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 ), 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 attraction to Highlands is the ability to get outdoors on area trails, browse the Highlands Historic Village, or just explore downtown. The Emerald Village complex hosts 12 mines for gem and gold panning seven days a week from spring through fall. The city is named after pioneer Daniel Boone and has breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Its known as the gateway to the Blue Ridge mountains. The Macon County Gemboree is one of the most widely known gem shows in the entire country. Read More: 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Maggie Valley. You can view Fontana Lake in Graham County, too, though another spot is near Bryson Citys Road to Nowhere. Properties are provided courtesy of Highlands-Cashiers Board of REALTORS. Floating high at 3,700 feet is one of the best NC mountain townsBanner Elk. In the fall, U-pick farms like Grandad's Apples N' Such open up and make a fun stop for families. Asheville is one of the coolest mountain towns in NC and by population, its the biggest in this guide. Read More: The Best NC Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes. An all-natural water slide, you can rush down this smooth rapid for a refreshing thrill ride unlike any other. 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. 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. 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. Shown below in no particular order are 12 of our favorites. Its a lovely scene, as the falls join a recreated grist mill, perfect to watch during a picnic.
Moving to North Carolina | Living in North Carolina - Livability From stunning scenery to outdoor adventure to quirky shops and quaint eateries, the North Carolina mountain towns have plenty to offer visitors. Walk Score: 36/100. 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. Listing information last updated on March 4th, 2023 at 4:24am EST. They hold the renowned Steeplechase each Spring. But it's far from the only one.
Best Places to Live Near the Mountains - Extra Space Storage Market Square, is a popular tourist stop that is impossible to miss as you drive through town. The ride down is thrilling, with the two-seater sleds hitting top speeds of 27 miles per hour as they twist and turn down the nearly 2,400-foot run. Hi Marguerite, the goats are at the Carl Sandburg home in Flat Rock. This gives the area a hip youthfulness that many find appealing. Read More: 100+ Unique Things to Do in North Carolina. Enjoy Wake Forest's many restaurants, museums, galleries, concerts, and more.
13 Top-Rated Mountain Towns in North Carolina | PlanetWare }, false ); Highlands, North Carolina. 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.. The Valdese Recreation Department oversees five parks in the area but we think you must visit McGalliard Falls. Greenville, South Carolina From fine dining and shopping to live music and festivals, downtown Greenville has it all. 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. Emerald Outback has plenty of trails to trek through dense old-growth forests, lush fields, and babbling mountain brooks in the warmer months. 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. 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.
The 5 Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Live In - landmarkrg.com Beautiful Boone, North Carolina, is easily one of the most popular NC mountain towns to visit. Banner Elk Avery County NC Official Website Each of our North Carolina mountain towns has its own personality and charm, offering an authentic Appalachian experience unlike any other. Come explore the best mountain towns in NC! Streets here are rampant with a retro nostalgia, for a unique feel unlike anywhere else. 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. /***Mediavine Sidebar Fix***/ Close to lots of great waterfalls (like Soco Falls! Banner Elk. Brevard is ideally situated at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, close to some of North Carolina's most spectacular waterfalls. Catch some incredible views from Lovers Leap, a 2-mile loop with a gain of 500 feet in elevation. Known as the states oldest attraction, there is plenty to see and do within, Nestled in North Carolinas Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone is a quaint and charming borough with surprisingly plenty of things to do! The downtown is decked out with colorful murals, reflecting the artistic spirit of the town. Mitchell Craft Fair, adding to their creative haven atmosphere. Flat Rock. 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. max-width: calc(100% - 320px); } Beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a great vibe. Several streams high in the Nantahala National Forest and the Pisgah National Forest feed the states largest private lake. text-decoration: none Wilmington is one of the best places to live in North Carolina near the beach as it is more affordable than the Outer Banks, which is the state's most popular coastal vacation spot. There is a happening scene of Boone breweries and Boone bistros to indulge in and an overarching focus on sustainability. I would never live anywhere else again. Dont miss walking across the Flowering Bridge, a beautiful blooming garden that spans the Rocky Broad River. Just off I-40 and not far from Asheville, is Black Mountain, a treat of a small town! 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. People dont just come here for that bucket list-worthy accomplishment. Advertisement. You're 20 minutes away from Raleigh, 20 minutes away from Durham, and 10 minutes away from Cary.
This is a popular ski resort for families or skiers and boarders interested in terrain parks. Waynesville is the largest town in its county and is a hopping spot to host any mountain traveler. 2. 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. The town is an eastern equivalent of the many mountain resort towns that dot the American west, particularly in the Rocky Mountains. The unmatched beauty and privacy of the area is the most appealing aspect of what residents love about Lake Toxaway. It's famous for its' "all American" Main Street, but it offers so much more. Include stops in Valdese (more on it later), Connelly Springs, and other great smaller towns. The Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster is a newer attraction nearby, sure to provide you with a year-round thrill! Cream is poured on a frozen sheet and rolled up in a Thai tradition, and capped with your favorite toppings. Mitchell Crafts Fair and the Burnsville Metric, a popular bike ride held in late April. ), 20 Excellent Things to Do in Cherokee and the Qualla Boundary (and Nearby! Just outside of Hendersonville is the North Carolina mountain town of Flat Rock. As a university town, the population reaches heights of around 20,000. Cashiers is the gateway to one of our favorite NC mountain escapes, Bear Lake Reserve. Bryson City The gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Bryson city is one of the best NC mountain towns! Youll encounter galleries galore downtown, among specialty shops, fine fares, and craft beverages. .generate-back-to-top, The history of Cashiers showcases the rich heritage of several buildings circa 1800s that have been restored overtime and are still in use today. Read More: 25 of the Most Amazing Winter Hikes in North Carolina. If you prefer to spend your day being pampered, there are some excellent spas in the area. You'll find the Great Smoky Mountains on the Eastern side of Tennessee. Lake Glenville is a very popular summer vacation spot with several vacation homes available in Glenville and in the nearby Cashiers and Highlands communities. Mount Airy, a.k.a. They have a tiny population of residents but a vast number of visitors each year. Right down the road from Maggie Valley is Lake Junaluska, a lovely community with a trail that takes you around its namesake lake. Regardless of your religious views, Fields of the Wood (a massive representation of the 10 Commandments) is an interesting place to visit.
Top 40 Coolest NC Mountain Towns - RomanticAsheville.com Spend some time wandering around, stop in at the Mountain Fresh Grocery to pick up a quick bite or fresh coffee, or enjoy a lunch at one of the many restaurants. Robbinsville NC. My name is Ellen Pitts and I am . Banner Elk is a very interesting town with quaint little stores, wineries, and restaurants! Its located at the junction of the Appalachian Trail and the French Broad River, making it a great jumping off point for some excursions into nature. .wp-block-button a { 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. Dont forget that Burnsville is home to a great restaurant scene, which you can explore downtown and beyond! And compared to larger cities in the area, the town offers good value.
16 Best Smoky Mountain Small Towns In Tennessee & North Carolina Lake Glenville Lake Glenville is hidden away in the mountains of western North Carolina, surrounded by hiking trails that wind through natural mountain beauty to waterfalls. Banner Elk. } } Its downtown is home to nice shops, a cozy atmosphere, and great restaurants. @media only screen and (max-width: 359px) { Hendersonville hosts the annual NC Apple Festival. There are many magnificent properties to select as a summer vacation home or a cozy winter getaway for the holidays to relax and recharge.