8 Coziest Mountain Towns In North Carolina
North Carolina is home to several mountain ranges, all of which are part of the larger Appalachian Mountain system. The Blue Ridge Mountains are among the world's oldest mountains and reach their highest peak in the western part of the state. Among the ridgelines sits Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the country. The diverse ecosystem offers endless adventure, from hiking to hidden waterfalls to fly-fishing along beautiful rivers and streams.
Adorable high country towns are tucked away in the richness with storied pasts about America's first gold rush. Historic train rides still traverse through the mountains, and local museums have captured important moments in time. The serenity, comfort, and peace of each community make you want to stay for a while. Discover the eight coziest mountain towns in North Carolina.
Boone
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains near the Tennessee border, Boone is a welcoming college town home to Appalachian State University. The students give the community a youthful feel, and the natural surroundings keep the city active. The region also has distinct four seasons, offering many scenic road trips along the Blue Ridge Parkway. A popular stop is Grandfather Mountain, the tallest peak on the eastern slope, with panoramic views of the landscape. A tradition is to walk across the Mile High Swinging Bridge, the highest suspension footbridge in the country, which spans a mile above sea level between two peaks.
Another way to take in the views is on the historic Tweetsie Railroad, the first high-tech mode of transportation connecting residents to the outside world. The train is named after its shrill whistle, which visitors can experience firsthand on a 3-mile train trip.
Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock is a quintessential small town, covering only 3 square miles. It's considered the only full-service town located on the Blue Ridge Parkway overlooking the Pisgah National Forest, one of the most awe-inspiring national forests in the United States. The town is a popular summer retreat and health spot due to the forested beauty and unique phenomenon it's named after. On a cliff that rests high above Johns River Gorge, northwest winds create updrafts, causing debris caught in the wind to blow up the cliff face. The observation tower at Blowing Rock is one place to see the phenomenon and learn about the Native American legend associated with it.
The community of Blowing Rock boasts a warm atmosphere, with numerous small gatherings held throughout the year. Located on the corner of Main Street, the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum offers insight into the art, history, and heritage of towns in the Appalachian Mountains. The hub is also a meeting ground for socializing, hosting fun painting workshops, and live performances.
Brevard
Located in western North Carolina, Brevard is a charming mountain town surrounded by lush green beauty as far as the eye can see. The community is referred to as the land of waterfalls, with over 250 waterfalls to see. Looking Glass Falls is a popular choice and has been named one of the best fall hikes in North Carolina.
Besides its natural beauty, Brevard is widely known for its unofficial town mascot, the white squirrel. The community is one of the few places in the country with a large population of them and a town festival, White Squirrel Weekend, to celebrate them. A popular spot to see the critters roam is Silvermont Mansion and Park, where a colonial revival mansion with beautiful architecture sits within an 8-acre park.
Hendersonville
Known as the Apple Capital of North Carolina, Hendersonville is a welcoming town with agricultural roots. The area's warm days and cool nights create an ideal climate for apple growing, and local farms such as Justus Orchard welcome the public to come pick their own.
Hendersonville is also renowned for its gem mining, boasting ruby, sapphire, and emerald deposits in the region. Elijah Mountain Gem Mine offers an overview of the unique geology, as well as gem and gold panning and prospecting opportunities. For an outdoor excursion, Chimney Rock is a magnificent state park that many people are not aware of. People often hike to the top to see sweeping views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure.
Waynesville
Tucked away in the hilltops, 25 miles from Asheville, rests the laid-back town of Waynesville. The community is considered a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is close to Cataloochee Valley, known for magnificent elk viewing.
The region's fertile soil and rolling green pastures make Waynesville a popular spot for agritourism. At locally owned farms, such as Winchester Creek Farm, people can learn about farming through educational tours and purchase produce on-site.
The high country town has managed to preserve its history. The entire downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and historic neighborhoods like the Frog Level Historic District retain considerable character. The former industrial center has transformed into a town gathering spot, with places like Frog Level Brewing and Panacea Coffeehouse serving as its focal points.
Banner Elk
Situated at a high elevation and at the gateway to Grandfather Mountain State Park, Banner Elk is a prime destination for adventurers. It’s close to two large ski resorts, Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain, making it a great winter vacation destination. Banner Elk becomes a magical place around the holidays. A yearly tradition is the annual Small Town Christmas celebration during the first week of December, offering a tree lighting ceremony, a parade, and ornament-making and cookie decorating.
The tight-knit community takes pride in its past. The Banner House Museum is the former home of Samuel Banner, one of the area's original settlers. Guided tours are offered to explore the recreated home and learn about the area's history, culture, and development.
Highlands
Referred to as the Aspen of the East, Highlands is an upscale mountain town that looks like a postcard. The buzzing art and entertainment scene, mixed with a relaxing atmosphere, keeps people returning year after year.
The Highlands Performing Arts Center hosts singers and bands, and the town is home to Mountain Theatre Company, one of the oldest theatre companies in the state.
Due to the region’s temperate rainforest climate, characterized by high rainfall and unique geography, numerous hiking opportunities exist, some of which lead to hidden waterfalls. Bridal Veil Falls and Callasaja Falls showcase this beauty and attract visitors from across the country.
Bryson City
Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Bryson City is a laid-back mountain town where one can enjoy the outdoors without the large crowds. There’s plenty of rafting, fishing, and hiking opportunities in nature, as well as artisan shops and breweries for days one wants to spend in town. Bryson City is a starting point for the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, a 53-mile track that winds through the Carolina mountains, passing over bridges, through tunnels, and offering scenic outlooks. The Smoky Mountain Trains Museum features exhibits on the railroad and a collection of Lionel trains.
A large number of anglers head to Bryson City to fish the Tuckasegee River, one of the seven most beautiful rivers in North Carolina. After a day of casting and wading in pristine waters, one can head to the Fly Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians to learn about the evolution of rods and reels and the history of fly fishing in the Southeast.
Plan Your Cozy North Carolina Getaway Today
North Carolina's cozy mountain towns in the Appalachian Mountains evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia, from railroad towns along the historic Tweetsie Railroad to communities near ski resorts such as Banner Elk. There's always an opportunity to take in the great outdoors. Hikes lead to majestic waterfalls, such as Looking Glass Falls, and scenic drives offer unbelievable outlooks, like those at Chimney Rock. The high country towns in North Carolina have a lasting, welcoming presence, leaving visitors filled with a sense of Appalachian charm.
