North Carolina Mountain Towns You Need to Visit

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Over the years, I’ve spent a lot of time exploring different North Carolina mountain towns, and I’ve come to love how each one has a unique feel.

Some North Carolina mountain towns are ideal for hiking, and others are perfect for a weekend getaway with good food and mountain views.

If you’re trying to decide which North Carolina mountain towns to add to your list, I’ve compiled a list of 12 of my favorites. These are places I’ve visited myself, and I’ve included tips on what to do, where to explore, and what makes each one worth the trip.

Brevard

Brevard was one of the first towns I explored when we moved to the Southeast, and it quickly became a regular weekend spot.

Between the mountain views, the swimming holes, and the sheer number of waterfall hikes nearby, it’s one of the places I love revisiting.

The trails here are ideal for both hiking and mountain biking. Pisgah National Forest and Dupont State Forest have some of the best singletrack in the Southeast, and with plenty of local bike shops and rentals, you don’t even have to bring your gear.

Downtown has plenty of places to refuel after a day outside as well.

Things to do in Brevard:

If you love chasing waterfalls, you’ll have plenty to choose from here. Triple Falls, Moore Cove Falls, and Looking Glass Falls are great places to start, and my full Brevard hiking guide has plenty more to add to your list.

When you’re visiting in spring or fall, a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway is a must. Graveyard Fields and Black Balsam Knob are stunning when the flowers bloom or the fall foliage is at its peak.

On a warm day, bring a towel and take a dip in a local swimming hole — Daniel Ridge and High Falls are both perfect for cooling off.

Or, for something a little more laid-back, spend an afternoon floating down the French Broad River with Brevard River Tubing. They provide the tubes and handle the shuttles, so you can simply relax and enjoy the mountain views.

Where to stay:

To stay right by the trails, Pilot Cove couldn’t be in a better spot — it’s just minutes from Pisgah Forest.

For a unique stay, Roamly Getaways has renovated Airstreams tucked away in the trees, which makes for a really fun base.

And if you want more space, Life’s Good Retreat or the Cozy Lakeview Cottage are perfect for families or small groups.

Hendersonville

Hendersonville is one of my go-to towns when I need a hike and a good meal since it’s only an hour from where I live in Greenville, SC. I’ve stopped here more times than I can count, and each visit reminds me how much there is to explore nearby.

Not only is Hendersonville full of local businesses to explore, it’s also a great spot to base yourself if you plan to visit Asheville, but want to be closer to some hiking.

Things To Do In Hendersonville:

You’re in a great spot for getting outdoors. DuPont State Forest, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Chimney Rock, and the Green River Gamelands are all within reach. I put together a full list of my favorite hikes in the area if you want some ideas.

Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, and High Falls are all close by and popular for a reason. They’re just a few of the amazing waterfalls in North Carolina that are worth checking out.

If you’re visiting in the wildflower season, Pink Beds Loop is a good pick, or head up to Bearwallow Mountain for a quick workout and some awesome views. Jump Off Rock is right near town and always delivers at sunset.

Downtown Hendersonville is such a fun spot to spend an afternoon. There’s public art, flowers, and plenty of shops and local spots to explore.

You’ll find everything from a pinball museum and gem mine to wine shops, a small aquarium, and a children’s museum. It’s got that easygoing, small-town feel that makes you want to linger.

When it comes to food, HenDough Chicken & Donuts is a winner for breakfast or lunch, Arabella’s has amazing brunch, and Flat Rock Wood Room is known for its wood-fired pizza and barbecue.

Hendersonville does get its fair share of summer storms, so it’s worth checking the weather before heading out. Most days start off clear, but afternoon thunderstorms are common. I try to hit the trails early when I can.

Where To Stay:

1898 Waverly Inn is great if you want to stay near downtown and still have easy access to the trails. 

Highland Lake Inn & Resort is tucked into a quieter area just outside of town and has a relaxed feel with walking paths and a little lake. 

If you’re visiting with a group, Earl’s Rest Lodge has plenty of space and makes a nice base after a day outside.

For camping, check out Dupont Bike Retreat right outside of the state forest!

Waynesville

Waynesville has an easy, friendly pace that I’m always drawn to. Between the mountain views, the nearby hikes, and the relaxed downtown, it’s a lovely base for exploring this part of the North Carolina mountains.

You’re also just a short drive from the Blue Ridge Parkway, which makes it easy to reach some of the best overlooks and hiking spots. 

I’ve highlighted my top picks below, but you can see the full list of things to do in Waynesville here.

Things to do in Waynesville:

I recommend starting with a hike, and Waterrock Knob is my top pick in this area. The trail is short but steep, and once you get to the overlook, you’ll see why it’s worth it. You get two amazing views in opposite directions, which makes it great for both sunrise and sunset.

If you can’t do a strenuous hike or you’re traveling with someone who needs better accessibility, the Waterrock Knob parking lot also has incredible views. My parents watched the sunset from here while I hiked up to the top, and we met at the bottom for the end. It worked out perfectly for everyone!

If you feel like a drive, Highway 215 is a quieter alternative to the Parkway with waterfall stops and easy places to pull over for a picnic. The section of the parkway that 215 connects to is currently closed due to damage from Hurricane Helene. You can check closure updates here.

Cataloochee Ski Area is a fun winter option, especially if you’re new to skiing. They offer beginner-friendly slopes, rentals, and lessons, so you can show up and give it a go. This area can be insanely busy on a rare snow day, especially if it’s the weekend, so arrive early and be prepared to wait in lines!

After exploring, check out the local shops, a few cozy coffee stops, and art galleries that line downtown. You can walk or drive down to the Frog Level District and check out Frog Level Brewing, my first choice for a local beer, and the food hits the spot after a long day out.

Orchard Coffee is another favorite. Their house-made chai is excellent, and I usually leave with at least one pastry in hand.

Where To Stay:

Flowertown Charm is just ten minutes from downtown, and it’s one of the stays that is truly unique. This off-grid, dog-friendly cabin has an outdoor shower, a wood-burning stove, and some of the best mountain sunsets I’ve seen.

It’s easily one of the best campgrounds in North Carolina, and you can see for yourself why on my Instagram! 

If you prefer something a little more traditional, The Yellow House on Plott Creek and Love Lane Bed & Breakfast both offer a nice place to recharge after a day of exploring.

During the winter, Boyd Mountain Cabins are such a magical place to stay.

Bryson City

I don’t want to say I’m a Bryson City expert, as such… buuuut… I’ve been almost a dozen times, so I know what I’m talking about.

This is easily one of those places where I could happily do nothing at all; just sit on a patio with a cold drink and watch the world go by. But if you do want to explore, this small town punches well above its weight.

Things to do in Bryson City:

As always, start with a hike. Wesser Fire Tower in Nantahala is one of the best in the area. The road to the trailhead is a little bumpy but still manageable. 

You’ve also got the Great Smoky Mountains right next door, with more trails than you could tackle in one trip. Deep Creek access area is only 5 minutes away, and the Oconaluftee Visitor Center is a short 20-minute drive.

There are a ton of things to do in Bryson City, but you have to visit Darnell Farms. I’ve been in every season and still find a reason to go back each time. 

There’s strawberry picking, sunflower fields, pumpkins, and yes—Dole Whip. It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly, and just a nice spot to spend an hour or two.

In summer, tubing at Deep Creek is always a highlight. Rent a tube in town, hike it into the park, and float your way back. It’s a little chaotic, but a lot of fun. If there’s been recent rain, the rapids will be more intense, which is something to take note of, especially if you have kids with you.

Top tip: Bring a dry bag and make sure it’s clipped on tight. You’re going to need it.

Later on, grab a drink at Bryson City Outdoors. Their patio is dog-friendly, and there’s always a food truck nearby if you’re hungry. Inside, you’ll find local beers and outdoor gear, which makes it dangerously easy to do some “accidental” shopping.

The restaurants here deserve their moment, and they’ve got one. I’ve written a full post on where to eat in Bryson City, because the food is that good. I’d plan to eat out once a day, at least, while you’re here.

Where to Stay:

Sleep Inn Bryson City is a solid budget option that’s clean, comfortable, and close to everything.

Stonebrook Lodge puts you right in the middle of town, so it’s perfect to be able to walk to shops, restaurants, and the train station.

Lakeview at Fontana and Long View Resort are where to go if you’re after a bit of solitude or want a more romantic accommodation. The views are lovely at both.

Cashiers

Cashiers is one of those places I always end up recommending to friends—usually with an enthusiastic “you have to hike here!” It’s a tiny town, but don’t let the size fool you. 

Some of North Carolina’s best waterfalls and trails are right on your doorstep, and the whole area feels friendly; where you settle in, take a breath, and suddenly don’t feel like rushing home.

Things To Do In Cashiers:

I could list every hike in Cashiers, but honestly, that would take up this entire post. So I’ve put together a dedicated guide to hikes near Cashiers if you want the full lineup. Here’s just a sneak peek at my top choices.

Whiteside Mountain is a must, in my opinion. The trail isn’t long, but the views from the top go on forever. I’ve dragged myself out of bed for sunrise here, and it’s completely worth it. Pack a thermos full of your favorite morning beverage and enjoy a peaceful morning without the crowds.

For something a bit more challenging, the Yellow Mountain Fire Tower hike is a real adventure. It’s a steep climb, but the views at the top are amazing. 

If you’re all about waterfalls, you’re in for a treat. Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Falls are two that I never get tired of. 

The cascades are huge, and if you’re up for it, there’s a perfect swimming hole at Turtleback for cooling off after the hike up. I love grabbing a sunny spot on the rocks and just letting my feet dangle in the water for a bit.

Downtown Cashiers is small but has a lot to offer. The Cashiers Farmers Market is great for snacks and a look at local life.

Whiteside Brewing is a nice place for a drink after the trails, and Slab Town Pizza is my go-to for a post-hike meal. If you like something fancier, the restaurant at Hotel Cashiers has some amazing food and cocktails.

Where to Stay:

I’ve stayed at Hotel Cashiers and can vouch for how friendly and convenient it is; pet-friendly rooms, a bar and kitchen onsite, and it’s just steps from the new Greenway Trail for a relaxed morning walk.

Trailborn has more of a mountain vibe if you’re after something a little special. It’s just down the road in Highlands, NC.

High Hampton Resort has a lake, golf, and way more ways to fill your day if you want an all-in stay!

Highlands

If you’re looking for a more elevated mountain town, this is the choice. I’ve only been here a handful of times, but I truly understand why people love this beautiful town. It’s the sort of place where you can be as active, go out for a nice dinner, or spend time at the winery.

There are a lot of hikes in Highlands, but I’ve got a few favorites I keep coming back to.

Things To Do In Highlands:

Dry Falls is a crowd-pleaser. It’s more of a walk than a hike, but you can get right behind the waterfall, which never gets old. Bring a jacket if you don’t want to get sprayed!

Glen Falls gives you a series of smaller waterfalls along a straightforward trail. The return is all uphill, so I usually take my time coming back. If it’s rained recently, the falls are even better.

Sunset Rock is an easy trail close to town, and, believe it or not, it’s actually one of the best spots around for sunset. The view from the top never disappoints.

Main Street is lined with boutiques, galleries, and antique shops, so it’s not hard to spend an afternoon just browsing. If you feel like exploring further, Cashiers is a short drive away with even more to see. 

Highlands is a great place to slow down and unplug for a bit. Cell service comes and goes, but I never mind; it’s the perfect excuse to disconnect and spend some quality time with people you love.

If you’re here on the weekend, keep an eye out for live music. There’s usually something happening somewhere, and Highlands pulls in some local acts that will wow you. It’s always worth seeing what’s on while you’re in town.

Where To Stay:

Outpost Inn is a no-fuss, comfortable place to stay if you just need somewhere easy after a day on the trails.

Highlander Mountain House has a bit of extra style, and the restaurant is a good bonus if you don’t feel like heading out again after a long day.

Black Mountain

Black Mountain is so good that I almost don’t want to share it…but who am I to keep one of the most beautiful North Carolina mountain towns from you?! It’s one of those towns where everything just works: good food, simple hikes, and no shortage of coffee stops. 

Black Mountain area sustained a lot of damage during Hurricane Helene and is now in its comeback era. It is fully open and welcoming visitors. If you’re looking to support Western North Carolina towns that need extra love, this is a fantastic option.

Things To Do In Black Mountain:

Catawba Falls is an easy pick if you like a waterfall hike (like me!).

After, I usually stop by Thirsty Peanuts for lemonade—sometimes lavender, sometimes strawberry, sometimes blueberry. I can never pick just one.

Lookout Trail in Montreat is about 10 minutes from downtown Black Mountain and an incredible spot for both sunset and sunrise. Arrive early if you’re going for sunset, as the parking spots are limited.

Black Mountain’s coffee scene is game-changing. Dripolator and Recess Coffee are both good stops for a caffeine fix. Plus, Seeker Coffee NC and GoGo’s Cinnamon Rolls are just down the road in Old Fort.

I have The Pure & Proper and Cousins Cuban Cafe on my list for next time since they’ve been recommended to me more times than I can count.

Of course, there’s more to the Black Mountain area than hiking and snacks.

Lake Tomahawk Park is a nice spot for a walk or a picnic. The Black Mountain Center for the Arts has regular exhibits and workshops for something creative. 

Over in Old Fort, Hillman Beer is a staple for a cold drink when you’re done exploring.

You can check out the Mountain Gateway Museum or try your hand at pottery at Arrowhead Gallery & Studios. The old hardware stores are a fun place to poke around if you’ve got a few spare minutes.

Black Mountain is also only about 15 minutes from downtown Asheville!

Where To Stay:

I stayed at Above the Fray and would go back in a heartbeat. The views are great, and it’s in a quiet area, great for winding down after a long day. Use this referral code to get $10 OFF your first Hipcamp stay!

Little Mountain A-Frame is one of the best Airbnbs I’ve ever stayed at, and it’s only 10 minutes from Black Mountain. The Cabin at Wild Ridge Trail is a good pick if you want something more off-grid and quiet.

To be closer to town, Black Mountain has plenty of cabins and small inns, so you’ve got options no matter what kind of trip you’re planning.

Boone

Just recently voted America’s Best Small Mountain Town by Travel + Leisure, Boone has a way of winning you over fast. There’s plenty to keep you busy, from scenic trails to great food, but it’s just as easy to take it slow and enjoy the mountain air.

It’s also a good spot to explore more of the High Country, with places like Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, and Blowing Rock all nearby.

Things To Do In Boone:

Start with a wander through downtown. It’s small but full of character with local shops, art galleries, and a few historic spots like the Appalachian Theatre. 

If you’re visiting on a Saturday between May and November, make time for the Watauga County Farmers’ Market. It’s packed with fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts, and has that buzzy weekend feel.

One of my favorite places to grab my caffeine fix is Hatch Coffee.

When you’re ready for food, Lost Province BrewPub is a local legend for wood-fired pizza and a good selection of beers. If you’re after something sweet, people rave about Stick Boy Bread Company. The cinnamon rolls are always the first to go!

If you want to get outside, the Greenway Trail makes for a peaceful stroll. For bigger views, head over to the parkway and explore Grandfather Mountain State Park or Beacon Heights Trail.

And if you’ve got time for a short trip out of town, Elk River Falls is a quick, scenic hike with a lovely waterfall at the end.

Looking for something different? The Hickory Ridge Living History Museum is a fun way to get a taste of Appalachian heritage, while Linville Caverns offers a chance to go underground for a bit of an adventure.

Where To Stay: 

The Horton Hotel puts you right in the heart of downtown Boone, so you can head out the door and be in the middle of all the action.

Graystone Lodge is just outside the center, with accessible parking and a pool—handy for a quieter spot but still close to everything.

Boone also has a ton of amazing A-frame cabins and log cabins that can accommodate large groups.

Sylva

Sylva’s a small town with a lot to offer. Even though it’s slightly sleepier than others on this list, it’s still one of my favorite spots for slower weekends.

There are plenty of trails close by, plus a main street full of food spots and shops. If you like a mix of hiking and exploring, you’ll have no trouble keeping busy here.

Things To Do In Sylva:

The Pinnacle Trail is the one to do for a long walk and a big view. It’s a climb, but you’ll be glad you stuck with it.

For waterfalls, High (Cullowhee Falls) and Midnight Hole are both easy to reach—Midnight Hole is a swimming hole that’s perfect on hot days. Panthertown Valley isn’t far either, with more trails than you could fit into one trip.

Back in town, Main Street is nice to wander with a mix of shops, galleries, and plenty of spots to eat.  I always stop at White Moon Cafe for breakfast and my caffeine fix.

My favorite breweries are Lazy Hiker and Innovation Brewing. If you’re looking for a nice place for dinner, I’ve heard amazing things about Ilda and Martha’s Place 553.

You’ll find lots of casual places for lunch or dinner, and there’s always a new bakery or coffee shop to check out. It’s a nice place to hang around, rain or shine.

If you want to mix it up, the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad is a short drive from town and always makes for a good day out. 

The Tuck Greenway has a kids’ bike park that’s made for families. You can also head just outside Sylva to see elk in Cherokee or stop by Mingus Mill and the Mountain Farm Museum if you’ve got extra time.

Where to Stay:

Hotel Sylva on Main Street puts you right in the center of everything. 

If camping is more your vibe, Moonshine Creek Campground is about 12 miles from town and is a beautiful spot to wake up surrounded by nature.

If you feel like stretching your trip, Waynesville is just up the road and works perfectly to pair with a weekend in Sylva.

Cherokee

Cherokee is the sort of place that surprises you with just how much there is to do. You’ve got the Great Smoky Mountains right on your doorstep, plenty of waterfalls, and more ways to spend a weekend than you might expect.

Quick note: the Smokies are not dog-friendly, so please plan accordingly if you anticipate spending a lot of time within the park.

Things To Do In Cherokee:

If you’re in the mood for hiking, Mingo Falls is one I keep going back to. It’s a short trail with a big payoff at the end. It’s also outside the park, so you can bring your dog along!

Alum Cave is another standout if you’re up for a bit of a challenge, and it’s at its best in late May or early June for wildflowers. 

For views, the quick hike up to Kuwohi Observation Tower is hard to beat, and Waterrock Knob is where I go for sunsets on the Blue Ridge Parkway (also dog-friendly!).

Elk-watching is a must here. The early morning or just before dusk near the Oconaluftee Visitor Center is the best time to spot them. If you like something different, the Fire Mountain Trails have 11 miles of mountain biking just minutes from downtown.

Back in town, you’ll find a bit of everything. The Museum of the Cherokee People and Oconaluftee Indian Village are both well worth your time to dig into local culture and history.

The Qualla Arts and Crafts Co-op is great for picking up handmade crafts, with baskets, pottery, and more, all made by Cherokee artists.

For food, Peter’s Pancakes & Waffles is the breakfast place. It’s a classic diner and super affordable.

The Rice Wagon is my pick that you have to try. Hawaiian-style chicken katsu is a winner, but you can’t go wrong here.

Oconaluftee Islands Park is right in town for a quick stroll or a summer dip, and if you’re here in spring or fall, check for local festivals. Cherokee loves an event.

There’s so much to do in Cherokee, I ended up writing a whole post about it that you can read right here. From tubing on the Oconaluftee River to hikes and local eats, you’ll run out of time before you run out of things to try.

Where To Stay:

Smoky Mountain Dome is a standout; Tawnie and Wayne have thought of every little detail. There’s a hot tub, fire pit, hammock, and loads of space to relax. It’s dog-friendly too.

River’s Edge Motel is right on the river and puts you close to everything in town. 

If you’re after a little adventure, Cherokee Waterfall Campground gives you a peaceful spot to camp and private access to a waterfall.

Beech Mountain

Beech Mountain is my go-to when summer gets sticky and I need to cool off or if I actually want to see some snow in the winter. The higher elevation keeps things comfortable, even in July, and it’s perfect for a short break if you want to escape the heat or you’re looking for a place to ski. 

This one’s a no-brainer for me to recommend—we had such an awesome trip!
If you’re more visual, I made a super fun Instagram reel showing what we got up to in our three days. 

Things To Do In Beech Mountain:

We packed in plenty of outdoor time on this trip. The Emerald Outback Trails are always simple to navigate and never too busy, so they’re great for stretching your legs and soaking up the mountain air. 

If you’re there on the right day, morning yoga at 5506’ Skybar is a real treat—doing sun salutations with that view just hits different.

Before we headed home, we also stopped at the Bark Park, which Ollie loved.

Food is half the fun on Beech Mountain. During my trip, we had breakfast at Fred’s General Mercantile, which is a local staple for all the basics, and grabbed lunch at Beech Mountain Brewing Company. 

We had dinner on the patio at Famous Brick Oven Pizza (the massive cookies are a must for dessert), and also managed a BBQ dinner at Holy Smokes, which hit the spot after a busy day!

We also squeezed in Grandfather Mountain Vineyard & Winery during a sunny afternoon. They had live music, mountain views, and some really good wine—honestly, it’s hard to beat. 

One of my all-time favorite places to hike near here is Roan Mountain. This is such a special area for sunrise or sunset, but make sure to wear layers since it can be much colder than you’d anticipate!

Where To Stay:

Beech Mountain has tons of options, from cabins to condos and everything in between. Most places come with mountain views, and many are pet-friendly too. 

Robbinsville

Robbinsville feels a bit off the beaten track, but that’s what makes it such a good spot to slow down and take in the mountains. You’re right in the middle of the Nantahala National Forest, which means easy access to trails, waterfalls, and spots to cool off in the water.

Things To Do In Robbinsville:

Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest is the spot when you just want a peaceful walk among giant trees… some of these poplars have been around for centuries. 

Huckleberry Knob is a favorite for some big, open views and makes an easy picnic spot. I always end up hanging out at the top longer than I planned.

If the weather’s good, I usually end up by the water. Lake Santeetlah is close by, perfect for a lazy afternoon with a paddleboard or a fishing pole. You can also do a quick hike to Yellow Creek Falls, which has a small area for swimming.

If you’re after a little excitement, the Cheoah River is always lively. Watching the kayakers ride the rapids never gets old.

Robbinsville also has some of the best mountain drives around. The Tail of the Dragon is famous—318 curves packed into 11 miles, and it’s always buzzing with road-trippers and bikers. 

For scenery and epic photos, the Cherohala Skyway is hard to beat, especially when the leaves start to turn.

When hunger strikes, Robbinsville keeps it simple and good. Lynn’s Place is where I go for proper Southern comfort food. Tapoco Tavern is always a hit for pizza or trout, especially if you can snag a seat by the river.

If you’re in the mood for a bit of history, the Junaluska Memorial and Native American Medicine Trail are both easy stops. They add a nice bit of local color to your day.

Just a short drive away is Andrews Valley Rail Tours. This rail bike experience is unlike anything I’ve done in North Carolina. You definitely need to do it once in your life!

Robbinsville is also a perfect base for exploring Bryson City, Andrews, or even Murphy if you want to see more of Western North Carolina.

Where to Stay:

If you’re after something a bit special, River’s Edge Treehouse Resort is a fun pick. You get to sleep up in the trees, and it’s so peaceful with the river right there. 

For an elevated stay, Snowbird Mountain Lodge is stunning and has some of the best amenities and food in the area.

Lake Santeetlah also has some amazing cabins that are great for larger groups!

If you prefer camping, there are dispersed campsites on Lake Santeetlah or a few great options on Hipcamp!

FAQs: North Carolina Mountain Towns

What is the best mountain town in NC to visit?

It depends on what you’re after. Brevard is great for hiking, Bryson City is super family-friendly, and Boone has that college-town energy. You can’t go wrong.

What is the prettiest mountain in NC?

Lots to choose from, but Grandfather Mountain, Roan Mountain, and Black Balsam Knob are hard to beat for views.

What is the most charming town in North Carolina?

Hendersonville’s got that mix of good trails and a fun downtown that makes it an easy favorite. Highlands is a great option too if you’re after something a little more polished, but it still has that mountain town feel.

What city in North Carolina is closest to the Smoky Mountains?

Bryson City and Cherokee both sit right at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Wrap-Up: North Carolina Mountain Towns

Each of these North Carolina mountain towns has its own kind of charm. Some are perfect for a quiet cabin weekend, others are packed with trails and spots to explore.

Whichever you choose, you’ll find something worth the trip. I hope you love them as much as I do!

Read More:

Ultimate List of Campgrounds in North Carolina

Best Waterfalls in South Carolina

Best Things to do in Wilmington, NC