Cashiers is the gateway to one of our favorite NC mountain escapes, Bear Lake Reserve. With Pendleton School of Craft nearby, theres also a thriving community for local art and handicrafts here. Read More About Our Journey! Best non-touristy mountain & coastal towns in North Carolina Cities are fun but sometimes it's nice to swap the busy roads for the peaceful streets of a small mountain town. Larry Lamb/Wikimedia. Tryons reputation as an equestrian haven and arts enclave is revered. 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! The unmatched beauty and privacy of the area is the most appealing aspect of what residents love about Lake Toxaway. You'll also find some of the best retirement communities in North Carolina. Be sure to wander up and down Boone's restored downtown, where you'll find a good selection of dining and shopping options, including a Mast General Store with its eclectic selection of merchandise, souvenirs, and fun selection of candy. Each town has its own vibe and many unique outdoorsy things to do. Copyright 2023 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. Brevard is ideally situated at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, close to some of North Carolina's most spectacular waterfalls. Properties are provided courtesy of Highlands-Cashiers Board of REALTORS. ), The Best Black Mountains Hikes near Burnsville, 20+ Kid-Friendly Waterfalls In NC (Easy Hikes And Swimming Holes! 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. In the fall, U-pick farms like Grandad's Apples N' Such open up and make a fun stop for families. Each village brings its own delightful draws and unique allure. You can see Table Rock Mountain, one of the most incredible hikes in the area, from downtown Morganton. This is the best of the North Carolina mountain towns to soak all your worries away. Its downtown is packed with shops and restaurants galore (Old World Baking Company for starters), but theres also some outdoor fun to find here. An all-natural water slide, you can rush down this smooth rapid for a refreshing thrill ride unlike any other. Of course, we cant forget about the famous Christmas Fraser Firs youll see around Ashe County. Its a town with a rich cultural heritage and an amazing area to learn more about these native peoples. Natasha moved to North Carolina for college years ago (but she's not trying to age herself here). Hendersonville hosts the annual NC Apple Festival. Affordable Mountain Towns for Retirement - US News & World Report The city is perfect for a winter getaway, thanks to milder weather, great events like Christmas at Biltmore and more! 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. Of course, they can serve as the perfect base for some of the best hiking trails and the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina. We are surrounded by wonderful small towns throughout North Carolina (especially historic ones! If you want to look like a local, hit up the popular watering hole, the Daily Grind & Wine. The 15 Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Visit You can track severe weather with us by checking out these WXII . The 15 Best Small Towns in North Carolina - Country Living Morganton is one of the easternmost North Carolina mountain towns well mention. Mica Gallery is one of a few spaces that showcase local artists from here and surrounding counties. Today, Cashiers is home to only a few hundred full-time residents but is a much sought out vacation destination. 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! The lake, actually a reservoir near Cashiers, is home to a number of sought after fish like Largemouth Bass and Rainbow Trout. In summer, you may see people fishing. "version": "7.4.0", Beaufort County COUNTY POPULATION: 46,994 SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 24.6% Bryson City is a great gateway if youre looking to explore the expansive Great Smoky Mountains. Asheville, Greensboro and Charlotte are among the best places to live in North Carolina, a state experiencing continual economic growth. Best Small Towns To Live In, North Carolina Edition #1 Best Places to Live in North Carolina Morrisville Suburb of Raleigh, NC 79 reviews Niche User: Morrisville is one of my favorite cities in the Triangle Area of North Carolina. You can turn in a circle to see the mountains. There's a lot to do here, such as hiking the famous Appalachian Trail and rafting down the Cheoah River. Check out the shops filled with local crafts and popular tourist attractions like Harrahs Casino. @media only screen and (min-width: 769px) { Theres a bit of a dispute that we wont get into, but Old Forts Gold Festival typically kicks off each June. North Carolina's 6 Best Mountain Towns - This Is My South Anglers come from far and wide to try and catch one of the river's colorful rainbow trout. Read More: Christmas in North Carolina (the Best Holiday Events). document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Carl and Christina started NC Tripping. Floating high at 3,700 feet is one of the best NC mountain towns Banner Elk. max-width: calc(100% - 320px); 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. Appalachian Ski Resort is just minutes away and is a top destination for snowboarders and young skiers. The town is an eastern equivalent of the many mountain resort towns that dot the American west, particularly in the Rocky Mountains. The annual Rhododendron Festival is what brings many visitors to this town today. Mountain Communities | Best Places to Retire in the Mountains } ); Robbinsville is surrounded by some wonderful places both natural and manmade. The 20 Best Places to Live in the Mountains in the U.S. - Money Inc My favorite is Waynesville because I live there. .ai-viewport-1 { display: inherit !important;} Get the latest Severe Weather Alerts. Table Rock Mountain is one of the best hikes around. ), 20 Excellent Things to Do in Cherokee and the Qualla Boundary (and Nearby! As such, it offers an amazing assortment of natural feats to discover. 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. Downtown, youll find vintage motels, lots of motorcyclists, and the best pancakes of your life at Joeys Pancake House! Youll also enjoy walking around and stepping into local shops, art studios, and more here. Each year, they hold several celebrated events, like the Carolina Mountains Literary Festival and the Mt. According to Trico Long Distance Movers, the best place to live in the mountains in the United States is Telluride in Colorado. The town offers a surprising amount of accommodation and has a number of family-focused attractions. Known as the home of the White Squirrel (and annual festival! There are several opportunities for guests to learn about the history and culture of the tribe. Top 40 Coolest NC Mountain Towns - RomanticAsheville.com Market Square, is a popular tourist stop that is impossible to miss as you drive through town. One of the top 10 arts communities . Discover destinations, find outdoor adventures, follow the journeys of our travel writers around the world, and be inspired. The Jackson County Courthouse stands proudly on the hill at the end of Main Street in the quaint town of Sylva. Beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a great vibe. Take in the views overlooking the charming downtown from Sunset Rock. Close to lots of great waterfalls (like Soco Falls! height: 100%; South Lake Tahoe Might Be a Good Option. One contributing factor to the overall safety of Western NC may be the small size of the towns and cities here. Mount Airy is a tiny town at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Here are some ideas to point you in the right direction. padding-right: 10px; One of the town's major annual events is the Folkmoot International Dance & Music Festival, held over a 10-day stretch in July. If you prefer to spend your day being pampered, there are some excellent spas in the area. .sidebar a { North Conway might be best known as a ski townand that's a legitimate distinction with Cranmore Mountain Resort 's steeps and glades just a mile from . We mentioned Valdese earlier and thought you should know about this truly interesting place. Some describe the area like a country-club environment within a short drive of other amenities like shopping and dining. padding-left: 10px; 13 Best Small Towns in Western North Carolina: Sometimes, smaller is better. Facebook. 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. (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. 1. 12 Adorable North Carolina Mountain Towns You Should Visit - TheTravel Its also known for its four-day roots music festival, Merlefest, for which people travel from all over to see legendary performances. Bryson City The gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Bryson city is one of the best NC mountain towns! Blowing Rock offers a beautiful balance between the new and the old. Moving to North Carolina | Living in North Carolina - Livability Were ending this list of beautiful mountains towns in NC with perhaps the most well known Asheville. Beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a great vibe. This is a popular ski resort for families or skiers and boarders interested in terrain parks. Ranging in size and shape, North Carolina mountain towns come packed with unique attractions and wait with warm, welcoming smiles. 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. North Carolina is home to over 250 waterfalls with a number of them located in the Plateau region. 5. Its original town limits are now a historic district where tourists can visit historical homes. Among the top contenders is the beloved Sliding Rock. It's no wonder Asheville is consistently voted as one of the best places to live in the Blue Ridge 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. This stunning area is home to nearly 520,000 acres of forested mountains. 10 Best Rural Towns To Live In North Carolina - OnlyInYourState 13 Top-Rated Mountain Towns in North Carolina | PlanetWare 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. Beyond the downtown, you will find lovely homes and streets with manicured yards and views in all directions. They hold the renowned Steeplechase each Spring. Throughout the year, we think youll love eating and walking around downtown, tasting some of NCs finest beer at local breweries, and exploring the areas arts scene. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s){if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function(){n.callMethod? It is a popular tourist destination as well, so developing tourism . This is one of those very tiny North Carolina mountain towns that packs big personality. You'll find everything from t-shirt shops to ski outfitters and restaurants here. Read More: 100+ Unique Things to Do in North Carolina. 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 . The Most Beautiful Towns in North Carolina - Culture Trip A number of great restaurants and breweries (including Fonta Flora) are based here, too. This tiny North Carolina mountain town is a hidden gem of the high country. 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 city is named after pioneer Daniel Boone and has breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. #right-sidebar { 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. Hi Marguerite, the goats are at the Carl Sandburg home in Flat Rock. Disclaimer: This site uses demographic data, email opt-ins, display advertising, and affiliate links. Best Places to Live Near the Mountains - Extra Space Storage 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. Dont forget to visit our favorite waterfalls in Cherokee: Mingo Falls and nearby Soco Falls. 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. Along with multiple parks, the area is the ideal location for camping, boating, fishing, or cycling. To help narrow down that search, one website has chosen three cities in North Carolina as some of the best lake towns in the country to live in. Residents enjoy natural settings with a wellness center with a pool and tennis court, parks, playgrounds, trails, outdoor/indoor gathering spaces for community . Home - North Carolina - NC Mountains - 32 BEST North Carolina Mountain Towns. 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. Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Bryson City is well-known for hiking and river recreation. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Murphy is loaded with natural wonders, with mountains, lakes, and rivers all around it, and is one of the best mountain towns in North Carolina. You can find works from hundreds of artists, all in this small scenic setting. It also helps that you can refuel at one of Asheville's many innovative restaurants and breweries. 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. 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. It's an outstanding alternative for those . Visit Tour Wheels Through Time for a unique display of classic cars and motorcycles. If you simply want a relaxing getaway, you can find it here any time of year. 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. Trust us, we will find it here in one of our great mountain towns. Just outside the entrance to Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the small town of Cherokee, headquarters of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians. The town is also a junction for the Appalachian Trail, which winds through downtown. 3 Brevard at No. @media (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 979px) { 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. Black Mountain has a little bit of something for everyone. Each of our North Carolina mountain towns has its own personality and charm, offering an authentic Appalachian experience unlike any other. ), and one of our favorite North Carolina distilleries (Oak & Grist). Jump Off Rock is a great scenic overlook that sits in Laurel Park, 15 minutes outside of downtown Hendersonville. Maggie Valley is also a popular stop on motorcycle routes through the mountains, and the Wheels Through Time Museum is one of the town's biggest attractions. The Ramble Biltmore Forest, Asheville. Often called the crown of the Blue Ridge, it boasts both the oldest tourist attraction and a current vibrant visitor scene. 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! You'll find the Great Smoky Mountains on the Eastern side of Tennessee. The water also calls anglers to cast their lines in a variety of streams great for fly fishing. 20 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina - Home - Sunlight Living For example, here are some facts about Crestline in the San Bernardino Mountains: Population: 10,770. Youll find stunning waterfalls and spectacular North Carolina hikes all right outside your doorstep in this small mountain town. } ); A Short List of the Best Mountain Towns to Raise a Family .archive .content-area a { We are captivated by the Plateaus beauty and special charm and are passionate to share it with others looking to make the area home. The simple and slowed-down atmosphere of these magical enclaves makes for an ideal relaxing respite from the real world. Its a lovely scene, as the falls join a recreated grist mill, perfect to watch during a picnic. Spend a luxurious weekend at The Old Edwards Inn and roam the charming shops. Lake Glenville is a very popular summer vacation spot with several vacation homes available in Glenville and in the nearby Cashiers and Highlands communities. 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! Did you know North Carolinas Beech Mountain is the highest town in the Eastern United States? 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. Read More: 20+ Kid-Friendly Waterfalls In NC (Easy Hikes And Swimming Holes!). Similar lists have been published by other websites, including this one that also includes Boone, Brevard, and Morganton. 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. One of the top things to do in the summer is to catch the long running outdoor drama, Horn in the West. document,'script','https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); 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. Home to less than 500 people, Bakersville was founded to mine its wealth of mica deposits. The Emerald Village complex hosts 12 mines for gem and gold panning seven days a week from spring through fall. My son moved to Asheville in 1991 so we moved up here in 2006 after Katrina in New Orleans. .wp-block-button a { Tryon International Equestrian Center is a world-class facility for horse racing and riding. Hike around the Carl Sandburg Home in Flat Rock, NC. .wp-show-posts a { If you are looking for easy access to the Smoky Mountains, it doesn't . We also love that town and cant wait to go back:). Its an ideal setting for any wild wanderings in the local landscape. The 40-foot falls await after a short walk from the parking lot. One of the largest North Carolina mountain towns on this list, we absolutely love all the fun things to do in Hendersonville. With its very own beach, you can relax on the sandy shores and enjoy a refreshing dip into the cool, shimmering waters. Annual celebrations like the Elk Fest and Hillbilly Jamboree are reason enough to visit. Youll enjoy walking on its brick sidewalks while admiring the towns historic buildings. There are also plenty of Blowing Rock Restaurants to grab a bite to eat at! ), Hendersonville NC Map of Attractions (+ 5 Surrounding Counties! 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. Its main attractions, including the darling historic downtown, the . Rolling hills surround the town, and the Tuckasegee River runs through the middle. The Best of North Carolina: Still in the planning stage of your next vacation? Hope you get to see them sometime! You can enjoy an array of eateries, breweries, boutiques, and galleries on Main Street, and the historic buildings add an additional old-school charm. But, with only 12,920 full time residents, there aren't a lot of people to get the word out. "agent": "woocommerce-7.4.0-3.0.12" Some are more touristy than others, but none of the NC beaches are as touristy as Myrtle Beach, SC.I like Beaufort, but it's not right on the beach. While in the area, dont miss out on Apple Hill Farm, an ethical and working alpaca farm! At the same time, Chattanooga has many urban pleasures, including dining and entertainment options, a wide variety of public. A walk around the Village Green reveals gardens, outdoor sculptures, and a plethora of pleasing storefronts. 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. Many small towns in North Carolina claim to be the gateway to the Smoky Mountains, but Bryson City has a serious argument. Read More: Western North Carolina Map (400+ Wonderful Places Listed). 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. 12 of the Best Small Mountain Towns around Asheville 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. Catch some incredible views from Lovers Leap, a 2-mile loop with a gain of 500 feet in elevation. Read More: The Asheville Art Museum (How to Visit + 7 Great Things to Do). jQuery && jQuery( function( $ ) { 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. 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. The busy Main Street is lined with covered sidewalks, and is an ideal place for a bit of retail therapy. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Banner Elk. My name is Ellen Pitts and I am . Madison County seat Marshall sits just north of Asheville and Buncombe County. .inside-footer-widgets a { The main street is designed with tourists in mind, and is lined with cute shops, galleries, and covered walkways. Hot Springs is one of the most adorable North Carolina mountain communities, best known for its hot mineral springs. The downtown is chock full of charming shops, restaurants, and Brevard breweries. Awesome to hear, Donna, and thanks for sharing your favorite with us! The university, one of the more popular ones in the North Carolina system, has brought more and more young people to the area, so there's always something cultural to do on the weekends. Set on the edge of the Yadkin Valley, there are also an array of award-winning wineries nearby. 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. Named for its likeness to the Swiss Alps, the Switzerland Inn is a century-old resort catering to this concept. Set on a high plateau, some of its surrounding peaks boast breathtaking views. .ai-viewport-3 { display: inherit !important;} ), 25+ Beautiful North Carolina Road Trips (Scenic Byways and Highways), Max Patch Trail (A Short Hike to Beautiful 360-Degree Views! We receive compensation if you make a purchase, but it won't cost you anything extra. text-decoration: none What about you, though? .ai-viewport-3 { display: none !important;} min-width: 310px; This wonderful (and family-friendly) music festival brings in big names each year. This famous performance, running each summer since 1952, tells the story of Daniel Boone's adventures in the local area. Median age: 44.7. At, For a relatively small town, there are some fantastic restaurants in Waynesville, North Carolina. For a tasty and unique treat any time, stop in at the Toasted and Rolled Ice Cream and Bakery, where you can watch your custom ice-cream creation being made right in front of you. Nearby is Grandfather Mountain with its suspension bridge. If youre feeling adventurous, you can even visit the nearby ghost town of Henry River. Morganton is charming town in the foothills surrounded by beautiful scenery and outdoor adventure opportunities. Several streams high in the Nantahala National Forest and the Pisgah National Forest feed the states largest private lake. Next on our list of the best cities to live in North Carolina is the Inner Banks community of Greenville. Joyce Kilmer Forest, the Cherohala Skyway, Nantahala National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Lake Santeetlah are nearby. Mitchell Crafts Fair and the Burnsville Metric, a popular bike ride held in late April. Read More: 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Maggie Valley. Information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. From the mountains to the coast, North Carolina's charming cities and stunning natural areas lure visitors and residents from around the world. Highlands, North Carolina. 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. The Best Places to Live in North Carolina in 2022

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