Weve created many more NC travel guides that include these mountain towns in more detail. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. Many people come to this waterfall every year as the trail is an almost entirely flat gravel road. Sylva is a picturesque small town with a population of around 2500, and it's one of the best places to live in North Carolina. If youve heard of the Ashe County Cheese Factory, then you already know why West Jefferson is on this list. 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 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. Its also home to the only fly-fishing trail in the country on the Tuckasegee River, making this activity quite a draw. This is an isolated outpost at a high elevation and a hidden gem of the high country. 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. Its downtown is home to nice shops, a cozy atmosphere, and great restaurants. Its bustling with incredible restaurants, shops, and an iconic courthouse on a hill. The relatively low elevation, 1,991 feet, means it's warmer here in spring, which can be a real advantage. There are a few hiking trails there, too, which are among the best in the area. Read More: Hendersonville NC Map of Attractions (+ 5 Surrounding Counties!). We are captivated by the Plateaus beauty and special charm and are passionate to share it with others looking to make the area home. .ai-viewport-2 { display: none !important;} Its home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi, the majestic Mt. The Ramble Biltmore Forest, Asheville. Pearsons Falls is also nearby. If you prefer to spend your day being pampered, there are some excellent spas in the area. Cashiers is in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest and provides a front row view to the spectacular annual fall foliage. Tryon International Equestrian Center is a world-class facility for horse racing and riding. 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. Known as the home of the White Squirrel (and annual festival! And compared to larger cities in the area, the town offers good value. You can also walk to Blannahassett Island and fish or enjoy views of the French Broad River. You can enjoy an array of eateries, breweries, boutiques, and galleries on Main Street, and the historic buildings add an additional old-school charm. For a mixture of small-town roots and modern comforts, Boone is a great balance of the two. There is a lot to discover when you live in North Carolina mountain towns. But, with only 12,920 full time residents, there aren't a lot of people to get the word out. Read More: How to See Elk River Falls (Trail and Safety Tips). Designed by the same landscape architect responsible for the grounds at the Biltmore Estate, the North Carolina Arboretum, located just outside downtown Asheville, offers 426 acres of groomed gardens and lush trails. Burnsville is an authentic mountain experience with an artistic flair. Read More: 25+ Beautiful North Carolina Road Trips (Scenic Byways and Highways). NC Tripping uses Mediavine to manage all third-party advertising on this Website. There is a happening scene of Boone breweries and Boone bistros to indulge in and an overarching focus on sustainability. 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. Begin with our list of the best mountain towns in North Carolina. The Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster is a newer attraction nearby, sure to provide you with a year-round thrill! Main Street is a mix of restaurants and retail shops, including a disproportionate number of bookstores considering the size of the town. The 10 Cheapest Places To Live In North Carolina For 2022 - HomeSnacks fbq( 'track', 'PageView', { 12 Best Small Towns in North Carolina for Southern Hospitality - Travel 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. The Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum is a testament to this moniker, set in a 19th-century jailhouse. Beyond the downtown, you will find lovely homes and streets with manicured yards and views in all directions. Ranging in size and shape, North Carolina mountain towns come packed with unique attractions and wait with warm, welcoming smiles. Experience a mountain resort atmosphere in Sapphire Valley. } The old brick buildings have been restored in a thriving downtown that offers all the amenities you could need. 80+ Great Small Towns in North Carolina (+ Top 10 Best) - NC Tripping 5 Gorgeous Mountain Towns You Can Actually Afford - Livability North Carolina Mountain Towns To Escape the Summer Heat Read More: The Best NC Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes. Homes: $549K - $3.5M Lots: $69K - $450K. An all-natural water slide, you can rush down this smooth rapid for a refreshing thrill ride unlike any other. All this wonderful scenery might be a reason why many movies, including The Fugitive and Nell, were filmed in the area. 30+ of the Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Visit Now! - NC Tripping The rustic charm of Cashiers honors the regions former prominence in the timber industry. n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; It's also the apple capital of North Carolina and one of the largest apple-producing counties in America. You can find works from hundreds of artists, all in this small scenic setting. } Black Mountain. 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! jQuery && jQuery( function( $ ) { Its also known for The Diamondback, a road full of dangerous curves and beautiful vistas, popular among many daring drivers. 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. The 10 Best Places To Live In North Carolina For 2022 - HomeSnacks 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. Just a short distance off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Boone makes a nice place to stop for a night or an afternoon. I would never live anywhere else again. Our weekly newsletter shares weekly updates and tips on upcoming events. Home to East Carolina University, it's no surprise that apartments in Greenville are more affordable than in many larger, more professionally-focused cities. 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. Tourists travel from all over to soak in the waters. In Flat Rock, spend your days hiking the trails, saying hello to the many goats, and touring the house before heading downtown for some beers and barbecue from Hubba Hubba Smokehouse. 1 Sylva. .inside-article{ #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. 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. What about you, though? Here are the best places to live near the mountains! Affordable Mountain Towns for Retirement - WTOP News These affordable towns could be your next home or vacation home! See our article on the Best Ski Resorts in North Carolina for ideas to help plan your ski vacation. Its been a retreat for tourists since the 1890s and continues to be as refreshingly retro as ever. Stately homes can be found along the residential streets, a few of which have been converted into romantic B&Bs. Just a few miles from Sylva (see below) is Dillsboro, an artist community that is one of the coolest North Carolina mountain towns. 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. Historic Biltmore Estate is one of the. Join me to explore 5 NC Mountain Towns that you MUST visit! Twitter Right down the road from Maggie Valley is Lake Junaluska, a lovely community with a trail that takes you around its namesake lake. According to Trico Long Distance Movers, the best place to live in the mountains in the United States is Telluride in Colorado. } Saluda is a popular spot for rafting and tubing along the Green River. 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. Thanks for sharing your favorite with us, Jacquelyn! 22 BEST Small Towns In North Carolina - Lost In The Carolinas } Read More: Chimney Rock State Park (How to Enjoy an NC Icon). 4. The history of Cashiers showcases the rich heritage of several buildings circa 1800s that have been restored overtime and are still in use today. If youre feeling adventurous, you can even visit the nearby ghost town of Henry River. Written by Lana Law Updated Jun 23, 2021We may earn a commission from affiliate links (). 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. Downtown, youll find vintage motels, lots of motorcyclists, and the best pancakes of your life at Joeys Pancake House! Awesome to hear, Rebecca! 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). @media (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 979px) { 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.". Old Fort. The 5 Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Live In - landmarkrg.com 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. text-decoration: underline The town offers a surprising amount of accommodation and has a number of family-focused attractions. The lake, actually a reservoir near Cashiers, is home to a number of sought after fish like Largemouth Bass and Rainbow Trout. While there's a bit of a dispute that we won't get into, Old Fort's Gold Festival typically kicks off each June. If you simply want a relaxing getaway, you can find it here any time of year. Its main attractions, including the darling historic downtown, the . The town of Cashiers is centrally located in the Plateau region and attracts thousands of visitors between May to October each year. If you are looking for easy access to the Smoky Mountains, it doesn't . Cashiers is the gateway to one of our favorite NC mountain escapes, Bear Lake Reserve. It is a popular tourist destination as well, so developing tourism . Beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a great vibe. Mount Airy, a.k.a. 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. Best Places to Live Near the Mountains - Extra Space Storage Well, youll need to answer that question when you visit Marion and their annual Bigfoot Festival! Best Places to Live in Black Mountain, North Carolina Live like a local and experience a leisurely day of exploration. 1. Old Fort is set at the foot of the Black Mountains and surrounded by Pisgah National Forest. 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. Mitchell Craft Fair, adding to their creative haven atmosphere. ), The Best Black Mountains Hikes near Burnsville, 20+ Kid-Friendly Waterfalls In NC (Easy Hikes And Swimming Holes! Take in the views overlooking the charming downtown from Sunset Rock. The water also calls anglers to cast their lines in a variety of streams great for fly fishing. Even though it's primarily known for movie-like beaches, California is also a great mountain destination. ), Maggie Valley draws tons of tourists each year. Awesome to hear, Donna, and thanks for sharing your favorite with us! Make sure to get a taste of Hollywood at the Henry River Mill Village in Hildebran. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Carl and Christina started NC Tripping. Down the road from Banner Elk is Sugar Mountain, home to one of our best ski resorts. Home to less than 500 people, Bakersville was founded to mine its wealth of mica deposits. The sparkling North Carolina lake of the same name is the main draw for this mountain town. Let us know what piques your interest or just tell us what your dream home looks like in your vision. Brevard is frequently ranked as one of the best small towns in WNC, and it's for good reason. Read More: The North Carolina Bucket List. 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. 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. 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.. Visit Tour Wheels Through Time for a unique display of classic cars and motorcycles. The Tuckasegee River flows nearby and is regarded as a hot spot for trout and whitewater fish populations. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Waynesville. There are several opportunities for guests to learn about the history and culture of the tribe. Lovely homes line the slopes overlooking ravines, making this one of the prettiest towns in this area of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 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! 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. }); Land of Oz (held in September) is one of many great reasons to come here with its warmer outside. 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. Access to Roan Mountain goes through Bakersville and you can also enjoy the Toe Rivers waters here. padding-left: 10px; If you want to immerse yourself further in the scenery, take a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway or head over to Linville Falls, about 30 minutes away. It's famous for its' "all American" Main Street, but it offers so much more. People visiting the quaint town of Sylva are advised to walk up the 107 stairs to the Jackson County Courthouse, where they will witness the panoramic views over the countryside, downtown, and the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. 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 . We definitely recommend stopping at Whiteside Brewing for a pint and a burger (or wings!). Head here for one of the most romantic weekends in North Carolina. You'll also find some of the best retirement communities in North Carolina. @media only screen and (min-width: 769px) { Many of the most popular public access points, including Valle Crucis Community Park and the Watauga Gorge Access Area, are a short drive from Banner Elk. Start at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian or the Oconaluftee Indian Village. What Are the Best Mountain Towns to Raise a Family in America Great place to visit! Dont forget to visit Dry Falls, an accessible waterfall that you can walk behind. For such a small town, the selection and quality of restaurants is impressive. Night or day, this city never ceases to amaze. padding-left: 10px !important; Since way back, Maggie Valley has been a mountain resort and maintains its allure through vintage motels and gift shops. Top 9 Mountain Towns to Live in Tennessee - ezhomesearch.com 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. .inside-footer-widgets a { My favorite mountain town is Banner Elk. This classic mountain town is only 45 minutes from Asheville and is located right along Pisgah National Forest. For a traditional lodge experience, stay at the Chetola Lodge looking out over Chetola Lake. There's only one "big" city within an hour of the coast and that's Wilmington, with a pop of about 200,000 in New Hanover County, or 260,000+ in the Wilmington MSA.All the beach towns rely on a tourist-driven economy. If you are looking for something a bit bigger in a small-town getaway, Boone is a lively university town with a little less than 20,000 people. 5. 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. While its a rare admission-required waterfall, the area around the 90-foot falls remains well-maintained. The top of Lookout Mountain is just a 15-minute drive from downtown. If youre looking to explore the many waterfalls near Brevard, we recommend starting with Looking Glass Falls. The 3,800-acre development has nearly half the land set aside in conservation areas including lakes, waterfalls, woodlands and hiking trails. Brevard is ideally situated at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, close to some of North Carolina's most spectacular waterfalls. We mentioned Valdese earlier and thought you should know about this truly interesting place. /***Move Back to Top Button***/ 2. padding-right: 10px; .wp-block-button a { This mountain town in NCs Main St is lined with studios and galleries, great restaurants (including Zuma Coffee), and lovely shops. 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. Set right alongside the Green River, Saluda is a hotspot for water adventures, such as tubing, kayaking, and rafting. Jump Off Rock is a great scenic overlook that sits in Laurel Park, 15 minutes outside of downtown Hendersonville. There's a lot to do here, such as hiking the famous Appalachian Trail and rafting down the Cheoah River. This is the best of the North Carolina mountain towns to soak all your worries away. From the mountains to the coast, North Carolina's charming cities and stunning natural areas lure visitors and residents from around the world. This vacation destination is located on the eastern edge of the Plateau region near Sapphire Valley. Joyce Kilmer Forest, the Cherohala Skyway, Nantahala National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Lake Santeetlah are nearby. People dont just come here for that bucket list-worthy accomplishment. Imagine waking up each morning to stunning 360-degree mountain views, the rushing sound of nearby waterfalls and in close proximity to some of the nations top hiking trails, prize fly fishing and a list of other pursuits.