NEIGHBORHOOD
Sylva is a quaint, adorable and friendly mountain town. Downtown Sylva is a short 6 minute walk from the house and boasts a wide array of restaurants, four breweries, three bookstores and an eclectic shopping experience featuring unique clothing, arts, crafts, jewelry, antiques and consignment stores. There is also a wine bar, a couple coffee shops, chocolate shop, and a few lounges.
Sylva was named by "Where to Retire," magazine as one of the greatest places to retire in the U.S., citing the reasonable cost of living and abundance of outdoor activities.
Jackson County is home to the final stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway - more than 40 miles of uncrowded scenic beauty. Gaze in wonderment as you enter the county amidst 6,000-foot peaks of the Balsam Mountains, and make sure to stop at the Richland Balsam overlook. With an elevation of 6,053 feet, it is the highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Excellent hiking is found all along our Jackson County stretch of the Parkway.
124 locals recommend
Sylva
Sylva is a quaint, adorable and friendly mountain town. Downtown Sylva is a short 6 minute walk from the house and boasts a wide array of restaurants, four breweries, three bookstores and an eclectic shopping experience featuring unique clothing, arts, crafts, jewelry, antiques and consignment stores. There is also a wine bar, a couple coffee shops, chocolate shop, and a few lounges.
Sylva was named by "Where to Retire," magazine as one of the greatest places to retire in the U.S., citing the reasonable cost of living and abundance of outdoor activities.
Jackson County is home to the final stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway - more than 40 miles of uncrowded scenic beauty. Gaze in wonderment as you enter the county amidst 6,000-foot peaks of the Balsam Mountains, and make sure to stop at the Richland Balsam overlook. With an elevation of 6,053 feet, it is the highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Excellent hiking is found all along our Jackson County stretch of the Parkway.
FOOD SCENE
Great place to go for homemade breakfast/brunch food in downtown Sylva. Their dishes feature lots of unique creations with locally sourced ingredients.
18 locals recommend
Lucy in the Rye
612 W Main StGreat place to go for homemade breakfast/brunch food in downtown Sylva. Their dishes feature lots of unique creations with locally sourced ingredients.
A casual counter-service cafe with local and organic selections, as well as gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. We serve local draft beer, wine by the glass and bottle as well as locally roasted coffees and espresso drinks. They have a pet-friendly patio and free wifi. We offer crepes, paninis, soups, salads, taqueria menu and a selection of baked goods. Excellent breakfast/lunch options.
42 locals recommend
City Lights Cafe
3 E Jackson StA casual counter-service cafe with local and organic selections, as well as gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. We serve local draft beer, wine by the glass and bottle as well as locally roasted coffees and espresso drinks. They have a pet-friendly patio and free wifi. We offer crepes, paninis, soups, salads, taqueria menu and a selection of baked goods. Excellent breakfast/lunch options.
"Our favorite restaurant in the Region"-Southern Living Magazine.
The menu features everything from hand-cut steaks, savory seafood, chicken and pork to regional favorite sandwiches, salads and pastas. They also have vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free selections. All entrees are non-gmo and hormone free. We source from local growers and businesses as much as possible.
Be sure and dine al fresco on the covered terrace overlooking vibrant Sylva, North Carolina and all of its’ year-round happenings.
A local favorite for lunch or dinner.
61 locals recommend
Lulu's On Main
678 W Main St"Our favorite restaurant in the Region"-Southern Living Magazine.
The menu features everything from hand-cut steaks, savory seafood, chicken and pork to regional favorite sandwiches, salads and pastas. They also have vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free selections. All entrees are non-gmo and hormone free. We source from local growers and businesses as much as possible.
Be sure and dine al fresco on the covered terrace overlooking vibrant Sylva, North Carolina and all of its’ year-round happenings.
A local favorite for lunch or dinner.
A new fine dining experience quickly becoming a local favorite.
We welcome you to enjoy our rustic Italian-Appalachian cuisine along side inventive craft cocktails and unique wines in the very heart of downtown Sylva. Ilda is the artisan passion project of husband & wife team Chef Santiago Guzzetti and Sommelier Crystal Pace. Nestled in the Smokey Mountains of Western North Carolina, the pair felt called to build a home that is rich in culture, craft and community. Santiago’s heritage in Italian cuisine and Crystal’s ties to her hometown of Appalachia create a cuisine that is unique, but also honors and respects history. This union of Italian and Southern Appalachian cuisine is the foundation where they will recreate the comfort you found at your grandmother’s kitchen table.
20 locals recommend
ILDA LLC
462 West Main StreetA new fine dining experience quickly becoming a local favorite.
We welcome you to enjoy our rustic Italian-Appalachian cuisine along side inventive craft cocktails and unique wines in the very heart of downtown Sylva. Ilda is the artisan passion project of husband & wife team Chef Santiago Guzzetti and Sommelier Crystal Pace. Nestled in the Smokey Mountains of Western North Carolina, the pair felt called to build a home that is rich in culture, craft and community. Santiago’s heritage in Italian cuisine and Crystal’s ties to her hometown of Appalachia create a cuisine that is unique, but also honors and respects history. This union of Italian and Southern Appalachian cuisine is the foundation where they will recreate the comfort you found at your grandmother’s kitchen table.
Place to go for best BBQ in the county. Dinner or lunch
Voted #1 BBQ in NC by Yelp and #5 in the USA by Travel+Leisure
191 locals recommend
Haywood Smokehouse
79 Elysinia AvePlace to go for best BBQ in the county. Dinner or lunch
Voted #1 BBQ in NC by Yelp and #5 in the USA by Travel+Leisure
The best hand cut steaks in the Smokies with the freshest ingredients for exceptional taste.
29 locals recommend
Boots Steakhouse
64 Front StThe best hand cut steaks in the Smokies with the freshest ingredients for exceptional taste.
BREWERIES/LOUNGES/WINE BAR/COFFEE SHOPS IN DOWNTOWN SYLVA
A must visit for wine lovers in Downtown Sylva! The Wine Bar & Cellar is a fantastic spot to have a great glass/bottle of wine and a delicious charcuterie board/appetizer.
12 locals recommend
The Wine Bar and Cellar
470 W Main StA must visit for wine lovers in Downtown Sylva! The Wine Bar & Cellar is a fantastic spot to have a great glass/bottle of wine and a delicious charcuterie board/appetizer.
Good food, good drinks, good vibes. Open Tuesday-Saturday 5pm-2am and Sunday 11am-11pm. Live music, Karaoke, dj's
8 locals recommend
The Paper Mill Lounge
553 W Main StGood food, good drinks, good vibes. Open Tuesday-Saturday 5pm-2am and Sunday 11am-11pm. Live music, Karaoke, dj's
Popular brewery in Downtown Sylva. Great selection of beer, trivia on Mondays and often live music. Theres a popular food truck outside called Cosmic Carryout. Open 12pm-11pm and Friday-Sunday 11am-11pm.
99 locals recommend
Innovation Brewing Company
414 W Main StPopular brewery in Downtown Sylva. Great selection of beer, trivia on Mondays and often live music. Theres a popular food truck outside called Cosmic Carryout. Open 12pm-11pm and Friday-Sunday 11am-11pm.
Full menu and wide variety of beer selection. Brunch on weekends from 10am-2pm.
Open 12pm-10pm & Thursday-Saturday 12pm-12am
38 locals recommend
Balsam Falls Brewing Co.
506 W Main StFull menu and wide variety of beer selection. Brunch on weekends from 10am-2pm.
Open 12pm-10pm & Thursday-Saturday 12pm-12am
Brewery in Sylva located inside The Mad Batter Kitchen which is a restaurant downtown. Open 12pm-10pm & weekends 12pm-11pm
27 locals recommend
Lazy Hiker Brewing - Sylva Taproom
617 W Main StBrewery in Sylva located inside The Mad Batter Kitchen which is a restaurant downtown. Open 12pm-10pm & weekends 12pm-11pm
Located in downtown Sylva within walking distance from the house. Fancy late night bites, craft cocktails and cheep beer. Open 5pm-12am
13 locals recommend
The Cut Cocktail Lounge
486 W Main StLocated in downtown Sylva within walking distance from the house. Fancy late night bites, craft cocktails and cheep beer. Open 5pm-12am
The Farmhouse Mercantile & Coffee Bar
582 W Main StWhite Moon Coffee Shop
545 Mill StLOCAL ATTRACTIONS
Located in Cherokee, Nc. 20 minutes from the house. 150,000ft of gaming experience, great restaurants, shopping, bowling alley, entertainment center/concert venue, live music and more.
330 locals recommend
Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort
777 Casino DrLocated in Cherokee, Nc. 20 minutes from the house. 150,000ft of gaming experience, great restaurants, shopping, bowling alley, entertainment center/concert venue, live music and more.
Located in Maggie Valley Nc, 45 minute drive from the house. Boasts 18 slopes and trails, 3 aerial lifts, and two moving carpet lifts. Great for experts and beginners alike.
Tube World is right down the hill in Maggie Valley- 12 lanes of snow tubing fun!
231 locals recommend
Cataloochee Ski Area
1080 Ski Lodge RdLocated in Maggie Valley Nc, 45 minute drive from the house. Boasts 18 slopes and trails, 3 aerial lifts, and two moving carpet lifts. Great for experts and beginners alike.
Tube World is right down the hill in Maggie Valley- 12 lanes of snow tubing fun!
Located just under an hour from the house in Asheville, Nc. The luxurious family home of George and Edith Vanderbilt is a marvel of elegance and charm, as magnificent today as it was more than a century ago. Faithfully preserved and filled with original furnishings and masterpieces of art. After 6 years of construction, the 250 room castle was opened in 1895. The house is a staggering 175,000 square feet. The “Downton Abbey” of America. Stroll 30+ acres of formal and informal gardens adjacent to the Biltmore House all designed by Americas foremost landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted. Check out the winery while you're there as well!
1485 locals recommend
Biltmore
1 Lodge StLocated just under an hour from the house in Asheville, Nc. The luxurious family home of George and Edith Vanderbilt is a marvel of elegance and charm, as magnificent today as it was more than a century ago. Faithfully preserved and filled with original furnishings and masterpieces of art. After 6 years of construction, the 250 room castle was opened in 1895. The house is a staggering 175,000 square feet. The “Downton Abbey” of America. Stroll 30+ acres of formal and informal gardens adjacent to the Biltmore House all designed by Americas foremost landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted. Check out the winery while you're there as well!
(1hr 20 min from the house) US-276 Pisgah Forest, Nc 28768. Sliding Rock is a waterfall in Western Nc located near Brevard. Visitors can slide all the way down the waterfall into the plunge pool bellow. Its about 60ft long and 6-7ft deep.
384 locals recommend
Sliding Rock
(1hr 20 min from the house) US-276 Pisgah Forest, Nc 28768. Sliding Rock is a waterfall in Western Nc located near Brevard. Visitors can slide all the way down the waterfall into the plunge pool bellow. Its about 60ft long and 6-7ft deep.
~ Blue Ridge Parkway: The Blue Ridge Parkway is 469 miles long and runs through 29 counties in North Carolina and Virginia. Its Americas longest liner park. Haywood county (15 min from house) boasts 46 scenic miles of some of the most beautiful parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway. (miles 405.5-455.7) Tourist and locals alike enjoy driving along the parkway which offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, valleys and countryside. Most popular in the fall when the leaves change colors. There are areas to park and get out to take in the beautiful views as well as trails/hikes. You can even plan to have a beautiful picnic up there.
Points of interest in Blue Ridge Parkway:
Milepost 418.8- Graveyard Fields- A short downhill hike leads to one of three waterfalls. A popular hiking destination, Graveyard Fields morphs into a wild blueberry patch in late summer and fall, so bring your buckets!
Milepost 420: Black Balsam Knob- This section of the trail includes some the most spectacular mountains and balds in the Southern Appalachians. These treeless mountaintops draw people from afar due to their sweeping views and alpine appearance.
Milepost 422.4: Devil’s Courthouse- According to Cherokee folklore, the devil holds court in a cave on that mountain. A walk to the bare summit is worth every step.
Milepost 431: Richland Balsam Overlook- The highest point on the entire parkway at 6,053ft, Richland Balsam Overlook offers a beautiful 1.5 mile, self- guided loop trail.
Milepost 451.2: Waterrock Knob- Waterrock Knob visitors center sits at nearly 6,000ft and offers exhibits, book sales and restrooms. A 1.2 mile roundtrip trail leads to the summit of Waterrock Knob for an almost 360-degree view of the Smoky Mountains.
757 locals recommend
Blue Ridge Parkway
3884 Blue Ridge Parkway~ Blue Ridge Parkway: The Blue Ridge Parkway is 469 miles long and runs through 29 counties in North Carolina and Virginia. Its Americas longest liner park. Haywood county (15 min from house) boasts 46 scenic miles of some of the most beautiful parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway. (miles 405.5-455.7) Tourist and locals alike enjoy driving along the parkway which offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, valleys and countryside. Most popular in the fall when the leaves change colors. There are areas to park and get out to take in the beautiful views as well as trails/hikes. You can even plan to have a beautiful picnic up there.
Points of interest in Blue Ridge Parkway:
Milepost 418.8- Graveyard Fields- A short downhill hike leads to one of three waterfalls. A popular hiking destination, Graveyard Fields morphs into a wild blueberry patch in late summer and fall, so bring your buckets!
Milepost 420: Black Balsam Knob- This section of the trail includes some the most spectacular mountains and balds in the Southern Appalachians. These treeless mountaintops draw people from afar due to their sweeping views and alpine appearance.
Milepost 422.4: Devil’s Courthouse- According to Cherokee folklore, the devil holds court in a cave on that mountain. A walk to the bare summit is worth every step.
Milepost 431: Richland Balsam Overlook- The highest point on the entire parkway at 6,053ft, Richland Balsam Overlook offers a beautiful 1.5 mile, self- guided loop trail.
Milepost 451.2: Waterrock Knob- Waterrock Knob visitors center sits at nearly 6,000ft and offers exhibits, book sales and restrooms. A 1.2 mile roundtrip trail leads to the summit of Waterrock Knob for an almost 360-degree view of the Smoky Mountains.
~ Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest: (1 hour, 20 minutes from house) 5410 Joyce Kilmer Rd Robbinsville, NC 28771. An approximately 3,800 acre tract of publicly owned virgin forest in Graham County, Nc. Named in memory of poet Joyce Kilmer best known for his poem “Trees”. One of the largest contiguous tracts of old growth forest in the Eastern United States. The memorial forest is a popular family hiking destination and features an easy 2 mile figure-eight trail. Beautiful unmarred setting that was the uncharted hunting ground of the Cherokee Indians. Virgin trees grow more than 100ft tall and some 20ft around the base!
106 locals recommend
Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, Cheoah Ranger District, Nantahala National Forest
5410 Joyce Kilmer Rd~ Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest: (1 hour, 20 minutes from house) 5410 Joyce Kilmer Rd Robbinsville, NC 28771. An approximately 3,800 acre tract of publicly owned virgin forest in Graham County, Nc. Named in memory of poet Joyce Kilmer best known for his poem “Trees”. One of the largest contiguous tracts of old growth forest in the Eastern United States. The memorial forest is a popular family hiking destination and features an easy 2 mile figure-eight trail. Beautiful unmarred setting that was the uncharted hunting ground of the Cherokee Indians. Virgin trees grow more than 100ft tall and some 20ft around the base!
RECOMMENDED WATERFALLS IN THE AREA
~Whitewater Falls: Hwy 281 Sapphire, Nc 28774. Whitewater Falls is a must see for any waterfall lovers visiting the WNC region. Requires a short 1/4 mile walk to an observation deck overlooking the falls. At 810 ft, the combined upper and lower whitewater falls are the largest in the state and one of the tallest east of the Mississippi.
96 locals recommend
Whitewater Falls
~Whitewater Falls: Hwy 281 Sapphire, Nc 28774. Whitewater Falls is a must see for any waterfall lovers visiting the WNC region. Requires a short 1/4 mile walk to an observation deck overlooking the falls. At 810 ft, the combined upper and lower whitewater falls are the largest in the state and one of the tallest east of the Mississippi.
~ Soco Falls: (31 minute drive) 7516 Wolftown Rd. Maggie Valley, Nc. A beautiful double waterfall. 5 minute walk down a maintained trail leads to a viewing platform. To the left of the viewing platform is a steep trail. It is not maintained and is very slippery so its not recommended for use.
101 locals recommend
Soco Falls
U.S. Highway 19~ Soco Falls: (31 minute drive) 7516 Wolftown Rd. Maggie Valley, Nc. A beautiful double waterfall. 5 minute walk down a maintained trail leads to a viewing platform. To the left of the viewing platform is a steep trail. It is not maintained and is very slippery so its not recommended for use.
~ Tom Branch Falls: ( 26 minute drive) 3516-3774 Galbraith Creek Rd. Bryson City, Nc. An easy 1.6 mile roundtrip hike will allow you to enjoy two beautiful waterfalls in the deep creek area. 60ft high Tom Branch falls and about 200ft away is Indian Creek Falls. 1-2 hour hike. This is a great one. Pets are not allowed on this trail.
8 locals recommend
Tom Branch Falls
Deep Creek Trail~ Tom Branch Falls: ( 26 minute drive) 3516-3774 Galbraith Creek Rd. Bryson City, Nc. An easy 1.6 mile roundtrip hike will allow you to enjoy two beautiful waterfalls in the deep creek area. 60ft high Tom Branch falls and about 200ft away is Indian Creek Falls. 1-2 hour hike. This is a great one. Pets are not allowed on this trail.
~Looking Glass Falls: (75 minute drive) 5336-5988 Pisgah Hwy Brevard, Nc. Located in Pisgah National Forest and is the most dramatic roadside waterfall in the Carolinas. Simply step right out of your car and treat your eyes to this 60ft tall stunner. Right across the Blue Ridge parkway from the Looking Glass Falls overlook, you'll find the trailhead for Skinny Dip Falls.
320 locals recommend
Looking Glass Falls
U.S. 276~Looking Glass Falls: (75 minute drive) 5336-5988 Pisgah Hwy Brevard, Nc. Located in Pisgah National Forest and is the most dramatic roadside waterfall in the Carolinas. Simply step right out of your car and treat your eyes to this 60ft tall stunner. Right across the Blue Ridge parkway from the Looking Glass Falls overlook, you'll find the trailhead for Skinny Dip Falls.
~ Whitewater Falls: (67 minute drive) 8460-8562 Whitewater Rd. Cashiers, Nc. Hike the whitewater falls trail near Cashiers Nc to the stunning, tumbling, cascades of a towering waterfall on this short, easy, family friendly trail.
96 locals recommend
Whitewater Falls
~ Whitewater Falls: (67 minute drive) 8460-8562 Whitewater Rd. Cashiers, Nc. Hike the whitewater falls trail near Cashiers Nc to the stunning, tumbling, cascades of a towering waterfall on this short, easy, family friendly trail.
~ Silver Run Falls: (60 minute drive) Nantahala National Forest Cashiers, Nc. The hike to this waterfall is a very short 1/4 mile and well worth it. The waterfall is about 40ft tall and has a large volume of water. This makes for a great place to swim. The bottom of the pool is about 15ft deep. Kid and pet friendly hike.
45 locals recommend
Silver Run Falls Trailhead
~ Silver Run Falls: (60 minute drive) Nantahala National Forest Cashiers, Nc. The hike to this waterfall is a very short 1/4 mile and well worth it. The waterfall is about 40ft tall and has a large volume of water. This makes for a great place to swim. The bottom of the pool is about 15ft deep. Kid and pet friendly hike.
~ Bridal Veil Falls: (48 minute drive) 64 Franklin Rd Highlands, Nc. The only waterfall you can drive behind in the state. It is located on the way to Dry Falls which is one of the most spectacular of the Carolina Falls.
109 locals recommend
Bridal Veil Falls
~ Bridal Veil Falls: (48 minute drive) 64 Franklin Rd Highlands, Nc. The only waterfall you can drive behind in the state. It is located on the way to Dry Falls which is one of the most spectacular of the Carolina Falls.
~ Dry Falls: (46 minute drive) 1979-1982 Franklin Rd Highlands, Nc. Less than a mile from Bridal Veil Falls. Dry Falls drops 80ft. The neat thing about this falls is that an easy paved path leads down from the parking lot taking you inside the recessed ledge behind the roaring waters for a view from the other side. Note: parking lot is small. About 20 spaces.
229 locals recommend
Dry Falls
U.S. 64~ Dry Falls: (46 minute drive) 1979-1982 Franklin Rd Highlands, Nc. Less than a mile from Bridal Veil Falls. Dry Falls drops 80ft. The neat thing about this falls is that an easy paved path leads down from the parking lot taking you inside the recessed ledge behind the roaring waters for a view from the other side. Note: parking lot is small. About 20 spaces.
~Rainbow Falls & Turtleback Falls: Located in Gorges State Park, Rainbow Falls is named for the mist that creates daily rainbows in front of it. The waterfall is accessed by a 3 mile in and out hike which includes another noteworthy waterfall (Turtleback Falls) just beyond it. Turtleback has a nice swimming spot located right at its base. Considered moderately difficult hike. Not recommended for young children.
10 locals recommend
Rainbow Falls
~Rainbow Falls & Turtleback Falls: Located in Gorges State Park, Rainbow Falls is named for the mist that creates daily rainbows in front of it. The waterfall is accessed by a 3 mile in and out hike which includes another noteworthy waterfall (Turtleback Falls) just beyond it. Turtleback has a nice swimming spot located right at its base. Considered moderately difficult hike. Not recommended for young children.
~Schoolhouse Falls: Nestled in a valley with a mountain stream and rhododendron thickets, schoolhouse Falls is another cascade in Nantahala National Forest. It can be reached via the Cold Mountain Gap Trailhead just east of cashiers, Nc. Moderate hike about 2.54 miles. the falls are 25ft high and the swimming pool at the bottom makes a great swimming hole and you can walk behind the falls relatively safely. A great one for the whole family to visit.
12 locals recommend
Schoolhouse Falls
~Schoolhouse Falls: Nestled in a valley with a mountain stream and rhododendron thickets, schoolhouse Falls is another cascade in Nantahala National Forest. It can be reached via the Cold Mountain Gap Trailhead just east of cashiers, Nc. Moderate hike about 2.54 miles. the falls are 25ft high and the swimming pool at the bottom makes a great swimming hole and you can walk behind the falls relatively safely. A great one for the whole family to visit.
~Mingo Falls- Located in Cherokee, Nc. The spectacular Mingo Falls are over 120ft high and are rated one of the most impressive falls in North Carolina.
58 locals recommend
Mingo Falls
Eastern Cherokee Reservation~Mingo Falls- Located in Cherokee, Nc. The spectacular Mingo Falls are over 120ft high and are rated one of the most impressive falls in North Carolina.
~Secret Falls aka Big Shoals Falls- gorgeous 50ft waterfall on Big Creek that cascades into a serene pool deep in the Nantahala National Forest near the Geroga State line. Idyllic swimming hole on a hot summers day!
40 locals recommend
Secret Falls Trail Head
Big Creek Road~Secret Falls aka Big Shoals Falls- gorgeous 50ft waterfall on Big Creek that cascades into a serene pool deep in the Nantahala National Forest near the Geroga State line. Idyllic swimming hole on a hot summers day!
RECOMMENDED HIKING TRAILS
~Deep Creek…Definitely a favorite. Hiking, waterfalls and rafting all in one place! 3 beautiful waterfalls, 1 hike! Deep creek trail sits inside the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and is one of the most incredible places to go hiking in North Carolina. While Deep Creek Trail is popular in the summer for tubing and swimming, its one you can enjoy throughout much of the year.
6 locals recommend
Deep Creek
~Deep Creek…Definitely a favorite. Hiking, waterfalls and rafting all in one place! 3 beautiful waterfalls, 1 hike! Deep creek trail sits inside the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and is one of the most incredible places to go hiking in North Carolina. While Deep Creek Trail is popular in the summer for tubing and swimming, its one you can enjoy throughout much of the year.
Hike to the top of The Pinnacle (elevation 5,008 feet) near Sylva for panoramic views of the valley in Jackson County. The steady uphill hike of 3.4 miles one way climbs 3,000 feet in elevation, following an old logging road for much of the way. The 1,400 acre park is owned by the town and operated by the Pinnacle Park Foundation.
21 locals recommend
Pinnacle Park
Hike to the top of The Pinnacle (elevation 5,008 feet) near Sylva for panoramic views of the valley in Jackson County. The steady uphill hike of 3.4 miles one way climbs 3,000 feet in elevation, following an old logging road for much of the way. The 1,400 acre park is owned by the town and operated by the Pinnacle Park Foundation.
Waterrock Knob Trail is a 0.9 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Waynesville, North Carolina that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and bird watching and is best used from April until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
26 locals recommend
Waterrock Knob Visitor Center
Road to Waterrock KnobWaterrock Knob Trail is a 0.9 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Waynesville, North Carolina that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and bird watching and is best used from April until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Blackrock Mountain Trail is a 4.8 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Sylva, North Carolina that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. The trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and bird watching and is best used from April until October.
Blackrock Mountain
Blackrock Mountain Trail is a 4.8 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Sylva, North Carolina that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. The trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and bird watching and is best used from April until October.
Yellow Face Trail is a 1.6 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Sylva, North Carolina that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from April until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Yellow Face
Yellow Face Trail is a 1.6 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Sylva, North Carolina that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from April until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Woodfin Cascades Overlook is a 0.5 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Sylva, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking and nature trips.
Woodfin Valley Overlook
Blue Ridge ParkwayWoodfin Cascades Overlook is a 0.5 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Sylva, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking and nature trips.
Cowee Bald Lookout Tower is a 0.9 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Sylva, North Carolina that features a great forest setting and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and ohv/off road driving. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Cowee Bald
Cowee Bald Lookout Tower is a 0.9 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Sylva, North Carolina that features a great forest setting and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and ohv/off road driving. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Soco Falls Trail is a 0.2 mile loop trail located near Cherokee, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking and nature trips.
101 locals recommend
Soco Falls
U.S. Highway 19Soco Falls Trail is a 0.2 mile loop trail located near Cherokee, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking and nature trips.
Mingo Falls Trail is a 0.3 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Cherokee, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, running, and nature trips and is best used from March until November. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
58 locals recommend
Mingo Falls
Eastern Cherokee ReservationMingo Falls Trail is a 0.3 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Cherokee, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, running, and nature trips and is best used from March until November. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
High Falls and Triple Falls Tour is a 3.3 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Hendersonville, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
32 locals recommend
High Falls
High Falls and Triple Falls Tour is a 3.3 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Hendersonville, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Glen Falls Trail is a 2.4 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Highlands, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
58 locals recommend
Glen Falls
Glen Falls Trail is a 2.4 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Highlands, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Dry Falls Trail is a 0.4 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Highlands, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
229 locals recommend
Dry Falls
U.S. 64Dry Falls Trail is a 0.4 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Highlands, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Purchase Knob Trail is a 4.2 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Maggie Valley, North Carolina that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and running and is accessible year-round.
12 locals recommend
Purchase Knob
Purchase Knob Trail is a 4.2 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Maggie Valley, North Carolina that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and running and is accessible year-round.
If you're looking for an easy, kid friendly yet beautiful walk, Lake Junaluska walking trail is the place!
We suggest parking along the Rose Walk or start out at the Welcome Center where you can find more info about Lake Junaluska. (GPS: 575 N Lakeshore Dr, Lake Junaluska). A gorgeous spot to rest after your walk. Stroll by 200+ rose bushes and stop to smell them! Walk by the 1949 stone Memorial Chapel and peek inside. Next to the chapel is a labyrinth for a meditative walk. Along the rest of the trail, pass many historic buildings used at the retreat center, including several hotels.The highlight is walking the Turbeville Footbridge and walking across the dam (pic above). Take a short detour to Lambuth Inn and climb the hill to Inspiration Point for the best view of the lake and mountains.
The longer 3.8-mile option extends the walk by the highway and takes you by the Bethea Welcome Center and other additional sites. In fact, the Welcome Center (91 North Lakeshore Drive Lake Junaluska) is a great first stop to pick up a map and see what is happening on the day you visit - including dining options.
Along the way, other detours include garden areas. Stroll through the lush Corneille Bryan Native Garden with more than 500 species of native plants and is a haven for birdlife. The Biblical Garden at the Bethea Welcome Center features plants mentioned in the Bible, including herbs, figs, pomegranates, and vines.
Junaluska Gifts & Grounds in the Harrell Center offers specialty coffee, hand-dipped ice cream, smoothies, snacks, gifts, books, fair-trade products and souvenirs.
138 locals recommend
Lake Junaluska
759 N Lakeshore DrIf you're looking for an easy, kid friendly yet beautiful walk, Lake Junaluska walking trail is the place!
We suggest parking along the Rose Walk or start out at the Welcome Center where you can find more info about Lake Junaluska. (GPS: 575 N Lakeshore Dr, Lake Junaluska). A gorgeous spot to rest after your walk. Stroll by 200+ rose bushes and stop to smell them! Walk by the 1949 stone Memorial Chapel and peek inside. Next to the chapel is a labyrinth for a meditative walk. Along the rest of the trail, pass many historic buildings used at the retreat center, including several hotels.The highlight is walking the Turbeville Footbridge and walking across the dam (pic above). Take a short detour to Lambuth Inn and climb the hill to Inspiration Point for the best view of the lake and mountains.
The longer 3.8-mile option extends the walk by the highway and takes you by the Bethea Welcome Center and other additional sites. In fact, the Welcome Center (91 North Lakeshore Drive Lake Junaluska) is a great first stop to pick up a map and see what is happening on the day you visit - including dining options.
Along the way, other detours include garden areas. Stroll through the lush Corneille Bryan Native Garden with more than 500 species of native plants and is a haven for birdlife. The Biblical Garden at the Bethea Welcome Center features plants mentioned in the Bible, including herbs, figs, pomegranates, and vines.
Junaluska Gifts & Grounds in the Harrell Center offers specialty coffee, hand-dipped ice cream, smoothies, snacks, gifts, books, fair-trade products and souvenirs.
WHITE WATER RAFTING & TUBING
~ Smokey Mountain River Adventures: 5036 US-74 Whittier, Nc Family friendly rafting on the Tuckaseegee River. Perfect for first timers thanks to gentle rapids. (class 1 & 2) and easy river access. (ages 4 and up)
23 locals recommend
Smoky Mountain River Adventures
5036 US-74~ Smokey Mountain River Adventures: 5036 US-74 Whittier, Nc Family friendly rafting on the Tuckaseegee River. Perfect for first timers thanks to gentle rapids. (class 1 & 2) and easy river access. (ages 4 and up)
~Dillsboro River Company: 18 Macktown Rd. Sylva, Nc. Ideal for first time rafters, families with young children (minimum age 4) and those who want more of a relaxing river trip with warmer water and class 1&2 rapids.
36 locals recommend
Dillsboro River Company
18 Macktown Rd~Dillsboro River Company: 18 Macktown Rd. Sylva, Nc. Ideal for first time rafters, families with young children (minimum age 4) and those who want more of a relaxing river trip with warmer water and class 1&2 rapids.
~Smokey Mountain Tube and Raft: 1847 Tsali Blvd. Cherokee, Nc. Gently flow down the Oconaluftee River while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Smoky Mountains. While tubing, take a moment to enjoy the swimming holes and a trip off the rope swing! Ages 5 & up.
8 locals recommend
Smoky Mountain Tubing
1847 Tsali Blvd~Smokey Mountain Tube and Raft: 1847 Tsali Blvd. Cherokee, Nc. Gently flow down the Oconaluftee River while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Smoky Mountains. While tubing, take a moment to enjoy the swimming holes and a trip off the rope swing! Ages 5 & up.
~Tuckaseegee Outfitters: 4909 US Hwy 74 W. Whittier, Nc. Whitewater rafting, extreme tubing, kayaking, and more. Flow through a scenic mountain valley and several quaint mountain communities. 5 mile trip.
20 locals recommend
Tuckaseegee Outfitters
4909 US-74~Tuckaseegee Outfitters: 4909 US Hwy 74 W. Whittier, Nc. Whitewater rafting, extreme tubing, kayaking, and more. Flow through a scenic mountain valley and several quaint mountain communities. 5 mile trip.
~ Cherokee Rapids Tube & Kayak Rentals: 1681 Acquoni Rd Cherokee, Nc. Located on the Oconaluftee River which is widely known as one of the cleanest, clearest and most beautiful rivers in the SE United States. Type 1&2 rapids, ages 4 and up. Amazing swimming hole and a rope swing. 2 mile tube or kayak trip.
10 locals recommend
Cherokee Rapids River Tubing
1697 Acquoni Rd~ Cherokee Rapids Tube & Kayak Rentals: 1681 Acquoni Rd Cherokee, Nc. Located on the Oconaluftee River which is widely known as one of the cleanest, clearest and most beautiful rivers in the SE United States. Type 1&2 rapids, ages 4 and up. Amazing swimming hole and a rope swing. 2 mile tube or kayak trip.
Endless River Adventures: 74 US-19 Bryson City, Nc. Located on the Nantahala River. Whitewater rafting, white water kayak instruction, guided fly fishing, outfitters store. You will enjoy 8 miles of class 2&3 whitewater before the finale of your trip, Nantahala Falls. 7 years old and up or 60lbs and up.
15 locals recommend
Endless River Adventures
14157 W Hwy 19Endless River Adventures: 74 US-19 Bryson City, Nc. Located on the Nantahala River. Whitewater rafting, white water kayak instruction, guided fly fishing, outfitters store. You will enjoy 8 miles of class 2&3 whitewater before the finale of your trip, Nantahala Falls. 7 years old and up or 60lbs and up.