best nc mountain towns to live

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. Its easy to relocate to North Carolina and youll be convinced of that after talking to our. 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. If you want to spend a night up in this area, have a look at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, an incredible European-style, luxury hotel in the heart of downtown. .generate-back-to-top:visited { They hold the renowned Steeplechase each Spring. Read More: The Best NC Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes. Dont forget to visit Dry Falls, an accessible waterfall that you can walk behind. Its a setting rich with rocks and minerals, ideal for any geology buffs looking for a scenic retreat. Morganton is one of the easternmost North Carolina mountain towns well mention. Known as a culinary hot spot in the mountains of North Carolina, Banner Elk offers a charming place to simply relax, enjoy the scenery, and indulge in some fine dining. The Trail of Faith explores this heritage through a collection of preserved monuments and buildings. It is no wonder that Brevard is one of the best North Carolina mountain towns. Read More: Chimney Rock State Park (How to Enjoy an NC Icon). See our article on the Best Ski Resorts in North Carolina for ideas to help plan your ski vacation. Brevard is ideally situated at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, close to some of North Carolina's most spectacular waterfalls. The Valdese Recreation Department oversees five parks in the area but we think you must visit McGalliard Falls. Catch some incredible views from Lovers Leap, a 2-mile loop with a gain of 500 feet in elevation. ), 25+ Beautiful North Carolina Road Trips (Scenic Byways and Highways), Max Patch Trail (A Short Hike to Beautiful 360-Degree Views! In the summer, these same ski hills feature downhill mountain bike courses for those fearless on two wheels. Asheville, Greensboro and Charlotte are among the best places to live in North Carolina, a state experiencing continual economic growth. In summer, you might want to head to the coast to experience the best beaches in North Carolina or have some fun in the Outer Banks. Its also where you can see the spectacular Soco Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina. 9. You'll find the Great Smoky Mountains on the Eastern side of Tennessee. .rll-youtube-player, [data-lazy-src]{display:none !important;}. The various festivals and several golf courses is what residents have come to love about Sapphire Valley along with the peaceful scenery that attracts many to the area. Cities are fun but sometimes it's nice to swap the busy roads for the peaceful streets of a small mountain town. While its a rare admission-required waterfall, the area around the 90-foot falls remains well-maintained. Read More: 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Maggie Valley. The main street is designed with tourists in mind, and is lined with cute shops, galleries, and covered walkways. The town is home to the Great Smokey Mountains Railroad, a popular sightseeing excursion that has several different routes, the most popular is the Nantahala Gorge return trip. Come in the summer to experience the cool refreshing mist of any of the breathtaking waterfalls in the area or grab some skis to hit the snow-covered slopes in the winter. If you'd like to learn more visit the about us page. There is a happening scene of Boone breweries and Boone bistros to indulge in and an overarching focus on sustainability. For rare historical mountain artifacts, check out Swain County Heritage Museum. Stately homes can be found along the residential streets, a few of which have been converted into romantic B&Bs. Beyond ski season, we love hanging out in this town. We are captivated by the Plateaus beauty and special charm and are passionate to share it with others looking to make the area home. With only about 500 people living here, its main draw is the eponymous natural thermal mineral baths. text-decoration: none There are several opportunities for guests to learn about the history and culture of the tribe. There are so many outdoor options in West Jeffersons surroundings, including the Blue Ridge Parkway, the New River (ironically one of the oldest rivers), and Mount Jefferson. It's no wonder Asheville is consistently voted as one of the best places to live in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Beautiful Boone, North Carolina, is easily one of the most popular NC mountain towns to visit. South Lake Tahoe Might Be a Good Option. Floating high at 3,700 feet is one of the best NC mountain townsBanner Elk. After, six years of international travel they settled down and launched Lost in the Carolinas to share their experiences about and travel tips on South Carolina and North Carolina. Be sure to stop by the scenic Lake Sequoyah and of course, the many natural wonders that surround Highlands. Right down the road from Maggie Valley is Lake Junaluska, a lovely community with a trail that takes you around its namesake lake. 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. } 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. At 90-feet high, Pearsons Falls is an exciting natural attraction. You can find works from hundreds of artists, all in this small scenic setting. Take a horseback ride at Shady Grove Dude Ranch, see DeSoto Falls, and book a cabin rental to take in the mountain air. The old-fashioned charm of Maggie Valley is a refreshing escape to a slowed-down era of simplicity. The town's lovely architecture and historic buildings set it apart from others in the area. Flat Rock. } The Museum of NC Handicrafts offers distinctive displays of work by a range of North Carolina artists. 7. 4 Roxboro at No. text-decoration: none 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. fbq( 'track', 'PageView', { Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, on the doorstep of great hiking trails, scenic drives, and spectacular waterfalls, the location is hard to beat. .sidebar a { It includes some of the top wild places in western North Carolina, such as Catawba Falls, Andrews Geyser, and Point Lookout. We welcome you to the North Carolina mountains; we know youll just love it here! Tryons reputation as an equestrian haven and arts enclave is revered. Ramping up the adventure and excitement levels near Banner Elk is the new Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster, one of only 20 coasters of this design in the United States. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Welcome to the Carolinas, as seen through the eyes of Cameron Seagle and Natasha Alden. Larry Lamb/Wikimedia. Dont forget Catawba Brewing is based here for a cold refreshing craft pint post-adventure. Twitter Cashiers is the gateway to one of our favorite NC mountain escapes, Bear Lake Reserve. Art festivals are held here year-round and an impressive array of galleries and funky shops to browse. Begin with our list of the best mountain towns in North Carolina. Its historic and Swiss-style architecture adds to its charm. Spend a luxurious weekend at The Old Edwards Inn and roam the charming shops. They have a tiny population of residents but a vast number of visitors each year. There is a draw for every season, with plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities to partake in. Set on the edge of the Yadkin Valley, there are also an array of award-winning wineries nearby. Looking Glass Falls and Moore Cove Falls are stunning sites as well. We love the Carolinas and think they are one of the most special areas in the world. The downtown is chock full of charming shops, restaurants, and Brevard breweries. Each of our North Carolina mountain towns has its own personality and charm, offering an authentic Appalachian experience unlike any other. See: Palmer-Marsh House, Bonner House, Pamlico River, Goose Creek State Park, Bath Creek Dine: Blackbeard's Slices & Ices, Old Town Country Kitchen Stay: The Inn on Bath Creek 03 of 19 Beaufort Charlotte Observer/Getty Images Population: 4,382 Boones truly a four-season destination: they boast hiking and waterfalls in spring through fall and world-class skiing in the winter. 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. 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. There are museums, an arts center, a variety of shops, and over 30 restaurants, all quite impressive for their small stature. Dillsboro is one of the coolest mountain towns to discover. My favorite is Spruce Pine that is my home town but I also love Maggie Valley Boone and Cherokee. The Ramble Biltmore Forest, Asheville. This is the best of the North Carolina mountain towns to soak all your worries away. Its known as the gateway to the Blue Ridge mountains. Beyond chasing tall hairy creatures, Marion is situated at the base of Mount Mitchell with many waterfalls nearby, such as Linville Falls and Toms Creek Falls. It's a hot spot for mountain biking, mountain climbing, hiking, and waterfall chasing. Nearby is Grandfather Mountain with its suspension bridge. Old Fort is set at the foot of the Black Mountains and surrounded by Pisgah National Forest. } ); 2 Marion at No. Overall SnackAbility. Browse the bustling Main Street; brick sidewalks dotted with historic homes and many storefronts ideal for a day of shopping until you drop. Designed by the same landscape architect responsible for the grounds at the Biltmore Estate, the North Carolina Arboretum, located just outside downtown Asheville, offers 426 acres of groomed gardens and lush trails. Annual celebrations like the Elk Fest and Hillbilly Jamboree are reason enough to visit. North Conway, New Hampshire. Its an ideal setting for any wild wanderings in the local landscape. Night or day, this city never ceases to amaze. While in the area, dont miss out on Apple Hill Farm, an ethical and working alpaca farm! Thanks for commenting. Among its many quirky independent storefronts, its downtown is lousy with independent and adorable book stores. ), The Best Black Mountains Hikes near Burnsville, 20+ Kid-Friendly Waterfalls In NC (Easy Hikes And Swimming Holes! 15 Best Small Towns in North Carolina - Great Small Towns to Visit and Live In NC 1 Best Easy, Cheap Dinner Ideas for Your Family 2 42 Best Bedroom Paint Color Ideas for 2023 3 Early Spring Flowers Will Combat the Winter Blues 4 What Our Editors Bought and Loved in February 5 Dad Jokes To Keep the Whole Family Laughing Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. Read More: 75+ Fun Day Trips from Asheville (Within a 2-Hour Drive). On the edge of the town is Soco Falls. Access to enjoy kayaking, canoeing, waterskiing or just spending a day out on the boat is what most love about Lake Glenville. At Lake Lure, get the best of mountain and lake life by going boating, biking the trails at Buffalo Creek Park, or climbing to the top of Chimney Rock. height: 100%; n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments)};if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; This is a popular ski resort for families or skiers and boarders interested in terrain parks. And while private, the close proximity to explore other North Carolina mountain towns is a plus. .ai-viewport-1 { display: none !important;} 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're always looking for hidden gems here in the Tarheel State, and we'd love to hear from you. Feel free to browse the available properties on our website and contact us if you see something you love. Just above Murphy and Cherokee County along the western edge of NC is Graham County, home to Robbinsville. .ai-viewports {--ai: 1;} Be sure to spot their most famous residents as well, the thriving population of White Squirrels. The median home price in Ayden is 127,400 and the median income is $53,317, giving Ayden a solid ratio of home price to income. You'll find everything from t-shirt shops to ski outfitters and restaurants here. Home of the Davidson College Wildcats, Lake Norman, and great prices on real estate, the #3 best place to live in North Carolina, Davidson, is one of the Tar Heel State's best kept secrets. Its known for its iconic courthouse; an ascent to the entrance often offers an excellent photo op of the picturesque surroundings. The national park on the Tennessee and North Carolina border is the most popular in the country, so picking the right place to stay in the Smokies can mean the difference between traffic and bright lights or the sounds of birds chirping and streams rushing. Several Western NC towns made the list, including Fletcher (#3), Woodfin (#12), and Black Mountain (#20). We're also huge fans of Hillman Beer and the Mountain Gateway Museum in Old Fort. Surrounded by rolling hills, it has many hikes for sweeping sights, such as the Nantahala Gorge. If youre feeling adventurous, you can even visit the nearby ghost town of Henry River. An all-natural water slide, you can rush down this smooth rapid for a refreshing thrill ride unlike any other. @media (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 979px) { In Flat Rock, spend your days hiking the trails, saying hello to the many goats, and touring the house before heading downtown for some beers and barbecue from Hubba Hubba Smokehouse. Franklin is known as the gem capital of the world. It also offers some of the best birdwatching around. Its also home to one of the coolest distilleries in the state, Oak & Grist. Floating high at 3,700 feet is one of the best NC mountain towns Banner Elk. The relatively low elevation, 1,991 feet, means it's warmer here in spring, which can be a real advantage. Read More: Christmas in North Carolina (the Best Holiday Events). You can view Fontana Lake in Graham County, too, though another spot is near Bryson Citys Road to Nowhere. Just a short distance off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Boone makes a nice place to stop for a night or an afternoon. } 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. Asheville may be the best-known destination in the mountains of North Carolina, but Hendersonville is a wonderful small-town alternative. Table Rock Mountain is one of the best hikes around. You can take a side-trip to the not-mountain town of Charlotte and learn about its history at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Creekside cabins, glamping tents, resort hotels you can find them all in the best Smoky Mountain towns. It also helps that you can refuel at one of Asheville's many innovative restaurants and breweries. Our NC travel map will help you visually plan, in case youre ready to start exploring! The compact downtown is replete with restored old brick buildings housing interesting restaurants, art shops, and stores. Natasha moved to North Carolina for college years ago (but she's not trying to age herself here). The annual Rhododendron Festival is what brings many visitors to this town today. At, For a relatively small town, there are some fantastic restaurants in Waynesville, North Carolina. Here are some ideas to point you in the right direction. Its also home to New River Brewing for the finest craft beer and pub grub. So many great mountain towns to choose from! Tourists travel from all over to soak in the waters. "version": "7.4.0", Please visit our Disclosure and Privacy Policy pages for further explanation. Livability Asheville, NC Read the Magazine. Among the top contenders is the beloved Sliding Rock. The Wilkes Art Gallery is one of many reasons to visit NW, along with a variety of events happening throughout each year there. Its largely known as the Moonshine Capital of the World, with those spirits practically married to our mountains (along with stock car racing). text-decoration: none }, false ); Accommodation: Where to Stay in Bryson City. Begin with our list of the best mountain towns in North Carolina. Its easy to spend a week here at a coxy Asheville cabin and never get bored! Beaufort County COUNTY POPULATION: 46,994 SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 24.6% #right-sidebar { Of course, a very popular time of year to visit is in June, when the annual Rhododendron Festival kicks off. At 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is home to awesome views but also, some pretty great ski resorts. Its a hotspot for entertainment, with music at the Folkmoot, the acclaimed HART Theater, and Mountain Street Dances every Friday night. A perfect getaway in an idyllic private setting welcomes all to the tranquil Lake Toxaway. The rustic charm of Cashiers honors the regions former prominence in the timber industry. There are several ski resorts here if youre looking to hit the slopes and fantastic beer at Beech Mountain Resort. Read More: 25 of the Most Amazing Winter Hikes in North Carolina. ), Chimney Rock State Park (How to Enjoy an NC Icon), 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Maggie Valley, 75+ Fun Day Trips from Asheville (Within a 2-Hour Drive), 25 of the Most Amazing Winter Hikes in North Carolina, How to Find 20+ Haywood County Artists on Blue Ridge Craft Trails, Christmas in North Carolina (the Best Holiday Events), Craggy Gardens: A Beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway Stop, People of NC: Merlefest Director B Townes, Mingo Falls In Cherokee NC (a Great Waterfall + Easy Hike). Did you know North Carolinas Beech Mountain is the highest town in the Eastern United States? Today, Cashiers is home to only a few hundred full-time residents but is a much sought out vacation destination. The majestic peaks of the Blue Ridge Parkway, charming towns offering luxurious properties with panoramic beauty are just a few of the reasons that many seek out the best place to live in the North Carolina mountains. Once a mining hub has now become a top vacation destination as part of the Plateau region of western North Carolina. Bryson City is a great gateway if youre looking to explore the expansive Great Smoky Mountains. You'll also find some of the best retirement communities in North Carolina. The town offers a surprising amount of accommodation and has a number of family-focused attractions. And compared to larger cities in the area, the town offers good value. One of the top summer attractions for families is Santa's Land Fun Park & Zoo, a large amusement park with rides and animals. 6. Waynesville is the largest town in its county and is a hopping spot to host any mountain traveler. Joyce Kilmer Forest, the Cherohala Skyway, Nantahala National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Lake Santeetlah are nearby. text-decoration: underline } Were ending this list of beautiful mountains towns in NC with perhaps the most well known Asheville. } Sit down and have a meal at a diner, or visit the Andy Griffith Museum! Grandfather Vineyard is one of many nice spots along the water. Its also known for its four-day roots music festival, Merlefest, for which people travel from all over to see legendary performances. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Banner Elk. Take a walk down Main Street past the Swain County Heritage Museum and then turn up Everett Street to cross the bridge and look out over the river. Our love story begins in Wilmington, where we met while attending UNCW. One of the largest North Carolina mountain towns on this list, we absolutely love all the fun things to do in Hendersonville. 2. min-width: 310px; My husband & I love West Jefferson. You forgot to mention that it is home to Lees-McRae College! In summer, you may see people fishing. Nevertheless a gorgeous one and one of the most romantic places to travel in North Carolina. But, with only 12,920 full time residents, there aren't a lot of people to get the word out. Read More: 25+ Beautiful North Carolina Road Trips (Scenic Byways and Highways). If you prefer to spend your day being pampered, there are some excellent spas in the area. After a day of taking in the sights, stroll downtown Highlands along Main Street to discover a number of boutiques, specialty shops and make reservations at any of the fine dining options in this mountain town. Come explore the best mountain towns in NC! Just off I-40 and not far from Asheville, is Black Mountain, a treat of a small town! Regardless of your religious views, Fields of the Wood (a massive representation of the 10 Commandments) is an interesting place to visit. This is another popular destination in winter for skiers, particularly families. Back to Wilkesboro, of course, which is love for so many things but above all, the iconic Merlefest. For a traditional lodge experience, stay at the Chetola Lodge looking out over Chetola Lake. The town of Cashiers is centrally located in the Plateau region and attracts thousands of visitors between May to October each year. That scenic route is another reason we rank Highlands among the best mountain towns in NC! The Macon County Gemboree is one of the most widely known gem shows in the entire country. Wilmington was also founded in the first half of the 18th century by colonists, so it has a number of historical buildings. This is the best of the North Carolina mountain towns to soak all your worries away. Rolling hills surround the town, and the Tuckasegee River runs through the middle. @media only screen and (min-width: 769px) { Here are a few of them. At the same time, Chattanooga has many urban pleasures, including dining and entertainment options, a wide variety of public. But more and more businesses, tourists and residents are putting down roots in still-affordable Leadville. Read More: Hendersonville NC Map of Attractions (+ 5 Surrounding Counties!). Filled with shops, boutiques, and the beautiful Village Green, there is always something to explore in this lovely town. The Tuckasegee River flows nearby and is regarded as a hot spot for trout and whitewater fish populations. Along with multiple parks, the area is the ideal location for camping, boating, fishing, or cycling. Distance: 74.3 miles from Gatlinburg TN (2-hour drive) Robbinsville is a rural mountain town in the Smoky Mountain foothills that takes you back to a time of solitude and natural beauty. This small and gorgeous mountain town in North Carolina is a haven for food, culture, and outdoor adventure, and of course, for those seeking a laid-back mountain life that's not far from awesome attractions. As many of the stately properties in this mountain area also enjoy stunning waterfront views, its the best of both worlds to be surrounded by the natural beauty. In the fall, U-pick farms like Grandad's Apples N' Such open up and make a fun stop for families. Visit Tour Wheels Through Time for a unique display of classic cars and motorcycles. Home to East Carolina University, it's no surprise that apartments in Greenville are more affordable than in many larger, more professionally-focused cities.

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