North Carolina’s western mountain towns are the perfect refuge for Carolinians looking to slow down, immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the culture. From lively downtowns with good food and beverages to outdoor activities that showcase the best Blue Ridge or Great Smokies destinations like Boone or Asheville – explore some of the best mountain towns in NC on your bucket list today!
Boone, NC
Discover the captivating charm of Boone, NC, where you can find classic mountain town nostalgia and modern student life along its main drag, King Street. Enjoy a summery escape at countless swimming holes like Twisted Falls or Trash Can Falls while learning about its interesting past with a visit to Hickory Ridge Living History Museum in Daniel Boone Park. With plenty of outdoor adventure spots and unique attractions brought on by Appalachian State University’s presence, Boone stands out as one of the best mountain towns in NC. And I’m a Mountaineer grad so…I am partial.
Asheville, NC
Escape to the tranquil North Carolina Arboretum, just outside downtown Asheville. Precision-crafted by the architects of Biltmore Estate, this 426-acre garden and trailway promise a peaceful respite from city bustle – perfect for recharging before sampling beer on an Asheville brewery tour or hiking along the neighboring Mountains-to-Sea Trail!
Spruce Pine, NC
Unwind and explore the charming downtown of Spruce Pine, a small town with 2,000 residents located just six miles from the majestic Blue Ridge Parkway. Enjoy some of its vibrant cultural events or discover one-of-a-kind shopping and dining experiences. Home to an emerging restaurant scene alongside local art galleries showcasing unique offerings – visiting this hidden North Carolina gem is definitely worthwhile!
Cherokee, NC
Experience the Native American culture of Cherokee during your western North Carolina excursion. With exhibits, theatres, family fun parks, and petting zoos to explore, you can glimpse another way of life from days long past. If camping is more your speed, take advantage of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park nearby, with plenty of Appalachian hiking trails!
Don’t miss out on visiting The Oconaluftee Visitor Center for helpful information as well as an opportunity to spot some grazing elk near by – just be sure to bring fishing gear along if heading towards Raven’s Fork where anglers have been known catch 20″ plus trout! For anyone looking for outdoor adventures combined with rich cultural heritage – look no further than this spectacular mountain town within NC’s boundaries.
Bryson City, NC
Bryson City is a picturesque gateway to the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors are welcomed by its naturally occurring wildflowers, streams, and part of the Appalachian Trail scenery; it does not fail in entertainment either!
Thrill-seekers can enjoy white-water rafting or fishing while those looking for more leisurely experiences have ample choice between rail trips journeys through mountain views, cultural visits such as museums and local breweries, and gentle farm visits. This makes it the best MOUNTAIN TOWNS in NC.
Blowing Rock, NC
Blowing Rock, a remote mountain village in North Carolina’s beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Here, artists and artisans find refuge; enticed not just by its stunning landscape but also because it hosts Moses Cone Manor. It is a 3500-acre estate with a magnificent house, which serves as home to the Southern Highland Craft Guild.
With hundreds of local artworks throughout this awe-inspiring venue, visitors can experience firsthand craft demonstrations on the Manor’s grand porch!
West Jefferson, NC
From the rolling hills and timeless beauty of NC’s Blue Ridge Mountains to its burgeoning Arts District, West Jefferson is an idyllic corner of America. It is a combination of fascinating history and modern culture. Visit charming parks like Backstreet or Mount Jefferson State Natural Area for a day in nature. Explore galleries and studios with local art from renowned artist Ben Long at the Church of the Frescoes. Enjoy theater performances between visits to the Farmers Market – perfect for visitors seeking classic Americana experiences!
Highlands, NC
Highlands is an amazing destination for any traveler in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina. From shopping and dining downtown to breathtaking views like Sunset Rock or Whiteside Mountain, there’s something here for everyone! During the Halloween season, you won’t want to miss out on their old-fashioned festivities when they close down the entire town center! Nature lovers should also check out Gorges State Park. Visitors can find spectacular waterfalls such as Bridal Veil Falls, Dry Falls, and Cullasaja Falls. Don’t forget your camera! Listed among the best mountain towns in NC, this mountain town promises plenty of unforgettable sights. Looking for more things to do in Highlands NC? Visit our comprehensive guide here.
Maggie Valley, NC
Escape to Maggie Valley and explore the majestic Great Smoky Mountains – 35 miles west of Asheville! Reveal your inner explorer by observing black bears in their natural habitat and admiring wildflowers across trails or falls. Also, conquer slopes for skiing & snowboarding adventures while discovering museums steeped in history and barns painted with vivid quilt patterns. With such great activities, deciding what to do will be a hard part of this memorable journey.
Brevard, NC
Brevard, NC, is an idyllic college town in western North Carolina. It’s a prime spot to launch fly fishing expeditions down Davidson River or explore Gorges State Park’s craggy trails. To take it easy and soak nature at its finest, head for Panthertown Valley or the nearby Pisgah National Forest.
Valle Crucis, NC
Valle Crucis, North Carolina, is a picturesque village tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It has remained virtually unchanged since its settlement 150 years ago. Explore this charming town to witness traditional mountain culture and experience small-town life at its finest.
Franklin, NC
Located at the foot of the majestic Great Smoky Mountains, Franklin, NC, is a picturesque haven for nature lovers. The vibrant town has attractions that bring visitors from all over to its stunning beauty and rich history.
Culhowee, NC
Culhowee, North Carolina, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. It has a picturesque landscape to exciting attractions, such as local farmer’s markets and award-winning wineries. It is a vibrant town that is perfect for an unparalleled holiday experience.
Moreover, if you are a family person, check out some things to do in Boone, NC, with kids.
Banner Elk, NC
Take in the sights of Banner Elk by exploring its scenic one-mile greenway! Then, discover more about local wildlife at the May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center – an educational experience run through Lees-Mcrae College. Feel your heart pound as you cross Grandfather Mountain’s iconic Mile High Swinging Bridge and marvel from atop sheer cliffs. Hence, perfect for rock climbing. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Grandfather Vineyard & Winery, where a delightfully diverse range of wines awaits locals and tourists!
Hendersonville, NC
Just twenty minutes north of Hendersonville lies a destination that’s part brewery, part park – the Sierra Nevada Taproom. With 23 beers on tap and expansive grounds offering a beer garden, a back porch overlooking the French Broad River, a nature trail, and an amphitheater for live music performances, you won’t want anything while here!
all local restaurants and wineries, such as Marked Tree Winery, Stone Ashe Vineyard & Souther Williams, have made this area one of North Carolina’s best-kept secrets regarding wine-tasting experiences. Make gorgeous Hendersonville your home base today for an unforgettable experience at Sierra Nevada Taproom combined with amazing NC wines! No wonder why this place is among the best MOUNTAIN TOWNS in NC.
