Kick Off the Holiday Season at a Jackson County, N.C. Celebration

Kick Off the Holiday Season at a Jackson County, N.C. Celebration

Experience the spirit of the season in a Jackson County, N.C. mountain town, where the magic comes alive amidst the lights, parades and holiday markets!   Old-fashioned holiday scenes and the joy and laughter of your loved ones will surround you as you celebrate the season in our mountains. Our Holiday Calendar is packed with family-friendly events, and we have all the details here. So, plan your holiday getaway today!   Gobble on the Green   Before you gobble your Thanksgiving meal, get in some exercise in Cashiers at Gobble on the Green!    This 5K run/walk will be held at 9 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 23, beginning and ending at The Village Green. The course will canvas Frank Allen Road and circle around Cashiers Lake.   Kids can get in on the fun by participating in the Junior Warrior Course, a free, scavenger-hunt type of activity to be held at The Village Green Playground.    The cost is $35 plus a $3.50 sign-up fee. Packets may be picked up early on Wed., Nov. 22, from 3 to 6 p.m. at The Village Green Lewis Hall.  Click here to register!    Christmas Tree Lightings   Jackson County features two festive tree lighting events: Fri., Nov. 24, in Cashiers and Fri., Dec. 1, in Sylva.   In Cashiers, The Gazebo area of The Village Green will light up as part of a lively and heartwarming celebration featuring s’mores and cider and a dramatic entrance by Santa Claus. Festivities begin at 5:45 p.m., with the lighting after sunset. Pro Tip: […]

Give the Gift of Lasting Mountain Memories from Jackson County, N.C.  

Give the Gift of Lasting Mountain Memories from Jackson County, N.C.  

As the seasons change and the temperature lowers, so do the lodging prices and number of visitors to Western North Carolina. Adding to this perk are the mountain views which open after the leaves fall, offering a newness to familiar scenes. This time of year, hikes can turn into journeys into winter wonderlands, with frosty mountaintops and icy cascades. Lodges, hotels, cabins and cottages offer stacked-stone fireplaces and reading nooks, perfect for disappearing into a good book or the friendly competition of a board game. And then there’s the chance of a glistening mountain snowfall.  Known as our “Secret Season,” our winter months are some of the most enjoyable, with plenty of ways to make memories. Why not hibernate – for a while, at least – in the cozy towns and cradling mountains of beautiful Jackson County?    Here are our Top 6 Picks for memory-making this season!   Find Your Frazier Fir   It’s a scene out of a Hallmark movie. With family or friends, you bundle up, grab a cup of hot cocoa and scout the rows of evergreens, lined up like soldiers across an open mountain field. Eventually, “the one” comes into view – and, eventually, into your home to be decked as the centerpiece of your holiday festivities.   Jackson County is home to several tree farms offering fine Fraser Firs that dot our higher elevations. Most are family owned, and all are ready to match you with the perfect Tannenbaum. Consider Chimney Pond Farm or Bear Valley Farm, both […]

Reel in an Unforgettable Fall Fly Fishing Adventure in The NC Mountains

Reel in an Unforgettable Fall Fly Fishing Adventure in The NC Mountains

Jackson County, NC, is home to the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail®, the first fly-fishing trail in the county. With over 92,000 trout stocked annually, the rivers that flow through the mountain towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro, and Sylva, serve as a fly fisherman’s paradise year-round. As the leaves change and the temperatures cool, changes are also taking place along our rivers.  October and November are the optimal time of year to angle the Tuckasegee River, known affectionately by locals as ‘the Tuck’. Cooler waters mean more active fish, longer feeding periods, lengthier fly hatches, and plentiful stocking for your fly-fishing adventure. Longer Nights = More Bites  Summer’s long warm days are pleasant and bright for many, but the warmer water can have an adverse effect on the fish population. Warmer weather can create stress for the fish, making them conserve energy and spend the majority of the day not actively feeding. According to local guide shop Tuckasegee Fly Shop, autumn provides longer, cooler nights making the season a “sweet spot” for anglers. The benefit of long nights in the fall means more consistent water temperatures. The cooler the water, the more oxygenated it is, meaning more active fish and longer feeding periods throughout the day. Longer Hatches = More Snatches The fly hatches that fish feed on reap the benefit of the cool weather as well. Four main fly hatches can be found along the Fly Fishing Trail® in the fall: Midges, Stone Flies, May Flies, and Caddice […]

“Leaf” It All Behind with an Affordable Road Trip to Jackson County, NC

Fall leaf photo

“Leaf” It All Behind with an Affordable Road Trip to Jackson County, NC

The signs of Fall are everywhere: bright yellow school buses, football games, just a hint of coolness in the air, and – best of all – slight color changes in the leaves. The Jackson County, North Carolina area has one of the longest leaf seasons in the U.S., spanning from early October through mid-November. The area gifts almost two months of nature’s spectacular show, so there’s plenty of time to plan your own Great American Road Trip. Whether you’re traveling on two wheels or four (or more!), taking in the sights and deciding where to stop on your road trip is a big bonus. After all, you can’t do that on a plane. The journey becomes the destination, and it’s all part of the adventure! Budget conscious? Looking for insiders’ tips? We’ve got you. The charming towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro, Sylva and places in between all have hidden gems that don’t cost a fortune. Here’s your checklist with tips for an affordable Fall adventure in Jackson County, N.C.! Travel During the Week Not only is there less traffic on the roads, but most accommodations also offer lower rates for weekday travel. Leaf peeping is incredibly popular on the weekends, so stand apart from the crowd and book a stay Sunday through Thursday. Take the Roads Less Traveled Jackson County is nestled between two amazing destinations managed by the National Park Service: Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Both will take you to some of […]

Stay Cool in a Mountain Lake in Jackson County, NC

Stay Cool in a Mountain Lake in Jackson County, NC

Ah, summertime on a lake! It’s a great way to beat the heat and make memories with family and friends. In Jackson County, NC, the lake life comes with a big bonus: gorgeous mountain vistas that cradle the pristine water.   Whether your favorite activity is boating, paddling, tubing, fishing or swimming, there’s a lake waiting just for you in Jackson County! Need to rent a boat or gear? Local marinas, outfitters and guides can help with that, too. And, before you go, don’t forget to plan for lodging and dining to take full advantage of all the area has to offer.   Here is your list of Jackson County lakes!   Lake Glenville: A Mountain Playground    Perched at 3,494 feet above sea level in southern Jackson County, Lake Glenville is known for being the highest lake east of the Mississippi River. But did you know it also boasts seven islands and four waterfalls?    Nestled among its 26 miles of shoreline (making it the largest in the county), the waterfalls – Hidden, Hurricane Creek, Mill Creek and Norton – gently spill into the glistening lake and are only accessible by boat. Discover them – and the islands – on your own or hop aboard with Lake Glenville Scenic Waterfall Cruises. Catch them at sunset for an extra-relaxing vibe!   Need a vessel? No problem! Signal Ridge Marina has pontoons, tritoons (which offer extra stability), canoes, kayaks and paddleboards for rent. The marina can even set you up with fishing gear, bait and your NC […]

Take in the Fresh, Mountain Air at the Best Outdoor Dine & Drink Spots in Jackson County

Take in the Fresh, Mountain Air at the Best Outdoor Dine & Drink Spots in Jackson County

As warm weather arrives in Jackson County, NC, it’s time to savor the beauty of nature while indulging in delightful culinary experiences. Patio dining is the perfect way to relish our vibrant scenery and crisp mountain air, so whether you’re dining by the river or while gazing up at the mountains, elevate your experience at these perfect patios in our mountain towns of Cashiers, Dillsboro and Sylva. From fine dining to budget-friendly options and in between, here are some of the best spots to consider (many of which are also dog-friendly!): CASHIERS AREA SlopeSide Tavern – At the base of Ski Sapphire Valley, you’ll find this cozy eatery and porch – the perfect spot to relax and enjoy lovely mountain views. Whether you’re enjoying a delicious cocktail with friends or a family dinner, you’ll find something for everyone. Don’t miss their daily specials or menu favorites, including robust salads, tasty sandwiches or delicious flatbreads! Canyon Kitchen – Nestled in Lonesome Valley, this restaurant’s fabulous patio pairs with fine dining and breathtaking views for a truly dining experience like no other. The menu rotates to highlight seasonal produce from the on-site garden, but no matter what you can always expect sophisticated Appalachian cuisine crafted with the freshest ingredients. After you treat your tastebuds, roam the garden or enjoy a crafted cocktail amid the fireflies. The Orchard – This timeless establishment offers a picturesque outdoor dining experience. Set amidst stunning gardens and majestic mountains, the patio provides a serene atmosphere for enjoying […]

A Guide to Chilling Out in the NC Mountains

A Guide to Chilling Out in the NC Mountains

When the summer heat is in full swing, a visit to Jackson County, NC offers a cool escape. Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains with stunning natural landscapes, our destination provides ample opportunities to stay cool while enjoying the abundance of outdoor activities. Whether you seek solace in tranquil hikes or crave the adrenaline rush, here are 6 ways to beat the heat: Chase Waterfalls Jackson County is home to several breathtaking waterfalls, providing a refreshing retreat from the summer sun. Embark on an adventure to discover these natural wonders, such as Whitewater Falls, the highest waterfall east of the Rockies, or Silver Run Falls, known for its crystal-clear pool at the base. The misty air and cool waters will rejuvenate your spirit as you bask in the beauty of these cascading treasures. If you’re in search of a swimming hole to splash around in all day, take the family to Cashiers Sliding Rock. A safety note: Remember to abide by posted warning signs indicating danger and stay on established trails. Never climb on or around waterfalls and never play in the water above a waterfall. Rocks can be slippery and it’s easy to lose your balance especially with bare feet. Currents near waterfalls can be extremely swift even in areas further upstream. Never jump off waterfalls or dive into plunge pools at the base of waterfalls.  Explore Hiking Trails Immerse yourself in the shade of our lush forests by exploring our numerous hiking trails. Head to Panthertown Valley, […]

Ultimate Guide to Jackson County, NC: Expert Tips & Insider Insights for an Unforgettable Adventure

Ultimate Guide to Jackson County, NC: Expert Tips & Insider Insights for an Unforgettable Adventure

Craft your perfect summer getaway to our Western North Carolina mountains! Book your stay at a boutique hotel, bed & breakfast, resort, or vacation rental today and get ready to pack in the seasonal fun with these activities below: Outdoor Concerts Free outdoor concerts abound in our towns. Check out this year’s schedules for Concerts on the Creek in Sylva and Groovin’ on the Green in Cashiers, and plan your trip accordingly. Bring along a chair or blanket and sit back, relax and take in the sounds of summer. Ale Trail Refreshing beers and warm weather just make sense. Take a tour of our Brewery Trail by visiting a selection of walkable breweries throughout Sylva and Dillsboro, and then head over to Cashiers to unwind at Whiteside Brewing Co., which also hosts live music on weekends. Waterfall Chasing Cool off at any of our breathtaking waterfalls, including Silver Run Falls and Cashiers Sliding Rock – a favorite attraction for families. Don’t miss the spectacular views of Whitewater Falls, the tallest fall east of the Mississippi River. To see multiple waterfalls in one fell swoop, book a boat ride with Captain Mark’s Scenic Boat Tours and cruise along Lake Glenville on a comfortable pontoon yacht while he guides the boat and points out some spectacular cascades. Al Fresco Dining  Experience fresh flavors while enjoying the cool, mountain air at a variety of outdoor spaces and restaurant patios throughout our county. At some, you can even bring your pooch! Choose from cafes […]

Best Time & Places to See Breathtaking Flora in Jackson County, NC: A Guide for Nature Lovers

Best Time & Places to See Breathtaking Flora in Jackson County, NC: A Guide for Nature Lovers

Ideally situated in the Western North Carolina mountains, Jackson County is home to rare and endangered species, colorful wildflowers and towering trees. In fact, the destination has one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the temperate world due to its elevation of 875 – 6,410 feet above sea level. With more than 1,500 species of flowering plants spread across 494 square miles of spectacular landscape, there is endless opportunity to encounter the season’s most picturesque blooms in Jackson County. We invite you to grab your hiking boots, immerse yourself in nature and discover the spectacular flora that comes alive in the spring, including: Rhododendron (March-June) — a stunning, evergreen shrub that is known for its brilliant blooms that range in color from pure white to deep red and purple. One of the best places to find this iconic flowering plant (and see 2023 Pantone Color of the Year Viva Magenta in nature) is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park,which is home to a wide variety of Rhododendron species, including the Pinxter, Catawba and Carolina. In particular, the Oconaluftee River Trail, Mingus Creek Trail, and the Clingmans Dome Trail are popular areas to see Rhododendron in bloom during the spring and early summer. Dutchman’s Breeches (March-May) – this wildflower is known for its delicate, fern-like leaves and unique, pantaloon-shaped flowers that resemble tiny pairs of breeches hanging upside down from a clothesline. Dutchman’s Breeches prefers moist, shady habitats, and can often be found growing in the understory of deciduous forests and […]