Western North Carolina is highlighted by the city of Asheville, NC, a gastronomic and cultural hub with a thriving brewery and arts scene. With major attractions like the Biltmore Estate and the Sierra Nevada and New Belgium breweries, Asheville attracts millions of visitors per year. Venture beyond the Asheville limits, however, and you will find thousands of hidden gem trails, scenic overlooks, cozy restaurants, and unique, memorable experiences. The small towns of Western North Carolina-- including Waynesville, Sylva, Bryson City, Cashiers, and dozens more each with its own unique flavor-- promise to amaze those adventurous enough to explore outside the Asheville surrounds.
Here is a list of the Top 10 Adventures not to be missed by those visiting Western North Carolina.
1) The Nantahala Outdoor Center
An outdoor adventure destination set upon a rushing river, the NOC offers visitors the chance to take an exhilarating rafting trip down the Nantahala River. For the non adrenaline-seeking among us, the onsite restaurant and brewery promise a peaceful afternoon of tasty beverages and excellent food. It's also a great place to bring the kiddos and dogs, who can pass the day splashing away in the shallow beach area while the adults enjoy a cold brew.
2) Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
All aboard! Fun for the whole family awaits on the GSMR where you can take a leisurely chug along the river and through the trees to take in the area's grandeur. Winding through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and along the Tuckasegee and Nantahala Rivers, other gorgeous views include Fontana Lake and numerous historical structures. And don't forget to catch the ever-popular Polar Express in the winter time where you can relive the childhood storybook in real life!
3) Harrah's Cherokee Casino
With tons of great restaurants and places to drink, the Casino is more than just a place to gamble. It's a whole vibe. Go play slots, try your hand at poker, or just hang out and have a drink to watch the game on the massive 90 foot game wall. The Caesar's sportsbook presents a chance to test your sports knowledge. Place your bets live at the ticket window or convenient self-service kiosks.
4) The Blue Ridge Parkway
If you're looking for sweeping curvy roads with mind-blowing vistas, laid back trails, and great pull-offs the Blue Ridge Parkway is for you. Connecting Cherokee all the way to Asheville, feel free to take the whole day and catch every peak! So strap on your seatbelts, throw on The Who's "I can see for miles" and get in the Blue Ridge Parkway spirit!
5)Pisgah National Forest
A truly magical place, the Pisgah National Forest is over 500,000 acres of gorgeous mountain landscapes, including the impressive peaks of Black Balsam Knob with 360 degree views at 6,214 feet in elevation. Explore the amazing swimming holes, like at the bottom of Looking Glass falls, and bring the kids to the Sliding Rock for a rock waterslide like no other. If you get hungry, check out the Pisgah Inn (but try to make reservations as it gets booked up!) for mouthwatering dishes.
6) Flyfishing on the Tuckasegee River
For the fishermen and women among us, the Tuckasegee is famous for being one of the best trout fishing destinations in the country! This world class river is said to house about 34,000 trout per mile so you're sure to get lucky! This is the highest trout count per mile in the entire country! While you're there, check out the tiny hamlet of Sylva which is home to some of the area's best breweries including Innovation Brewery, a personal favorite. And if you get hungry, their food truck Cosmic Carryout has the best burgers in the entire area, including Asheville!
7) Dupont State Forest
Venture down south a bit toward the Cashiers/Highlands plateau, and you'll find the Dupont State Forest. Laden with stunning waterfalls such as High Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Grassy Creek Falls, you'll be sure to get wet so pack your trunks.
8) Downtown Waynesville
Spend a day exploring the brick-lined sidewalks of the historic, charming town of Waynesville, the county seat of Haywood County. With dozens of places for a good meal, drink, or to buy a unique curio or memento, Waynesville has something for everyone. At night, catch live music at The Gem, a speakeasy with the area's best beers on tap and liquor drinks that is located below Boojum Brewery. For a gourmet meal, Chef's Kitchen has a seasonal menu showcasing the area's finest gastronomy. For a quick bite, Church Street Depot has an excellent burger. Orchard coffee is a local's favorite for their locally roasted coffee and people watching.
9) Cataloochee Valley and Ski Area
Set within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cataloochee Valley harkens back to a simpler era with a variety of historic buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Surrounded by 6,000 foot peaks, you can spend the day hiking along the river and enjoying a picnic while imagining what it must have been like over a hundred years ago.
10) Fontana Lake
The largest lake in Western North Carolina, Fontana Lake is a favorite among hikers as the Appalachian Trail passes along its 480-foot tall dam. Rent a boat at the Alarka marina and explore the countless coves for a private peaceful afternoon of swimming and relaxing. Or take a drive along the Indian Lakes Scenic Byway, also known as NC Highway 28 from Almond, to capture beautiful views during peak foliage.
