Waynesville is the largest town in Haywood County, home to adorable shops, amazing restaurants, and surrounded by beautiful outdoor scenery. In 2020, we decided to share more about our home in the Carolinas. Some describe the area like a country-club environment within a short drive of other amenities like shopping and dining. There are many magnificent properties to select as a summer vacation home or a cozy winter getaway for the holidays to relax and recharge. If you are looking for easy access to the Smoky Mountains, it doesn't . Browse the bustling Main Street; brick sidewalks dotted with historic homes and many storefronts ideal for a day of shopping until you drop. Ranking high on the best cities to live in in North Carolina, Wake Forest is an ideal place for those who love the great outdoors. 2 Marion at No. Since way back, Maggie Valley has been a mountain resort and maintains its allure through vintage motels and gift shops. As a university town, the population reaches heights of around 20,000. A number of great restaurants and breweries (including Fonta Flora) are based here, too. } ); Enjoy Wake Forest's many restaurants, museums, galleries, concerts, and more. In summer, you may see people fishing. You'll also find some of the best retirement communities in North Carolina. The 5 Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Live In Real Estate Blog 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. This mountain town in NCs Main St is lined with studios and galleries, great restaurants (including Zuma Coffee), and lovely shops. Make sure to stop in the Paces General Store (operating since 1899) and Thompons Grocery Market- North Carolinas oldest grocery store! If you brought kids, theyll want to check out the fire engine outside! Joyce Kilmer Forest, the Cherohala Skyway, Nantahala National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Lake Santeetlah are nearby. We mentioned Valdese earlier and thought you should know about this truly interesting place. It makes a great base for travelers passing through this area of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 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 Do you have a favorite place you like to go or is there one that stands out among the rest? padding-right: 10px !important; Blowing Rock and Boone are often talked about together because they are so closebut so different! } Boone boasts a vibrant and active outdoor adventure scene. Get the latest Severe Weather Alerts. Well, youll need to answer that question when you visit Marion and their annual Bigfoot Festival! Read More: 25+ Beautiful North Carolina Road Trips (Scenic Byways and Highways). Her days were spent reading a book on the beach and enjoying a cold glass of sweet tea in between classes at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Taylor. Read More: 100+ Unique Things to Do in North Carolina. If youre a literary lover, Sylva is a great getaway. One of the best small towns near Asheville - well, technically a village with a population under 3,400 people as of 2020 - Flat Rock is home to history, apples, and hiking. Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, 100+ Wonderful Places to Visit in Western North Carolina, Western North Carolina Map (400+ Wonderful Places Listed), 50+ Great Things to Do in Asheville (Downtown, Biltmore, and More! Its also where you can see the spectacular Soco Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina. Awesome to hear, Rebecca! Begin with our list of the best mountain towns in North Carolina. fbq('init', '754829038551418', {}, { There. A perfect getaway in an idyllic private setting welcomes all to the tranquil Lake Toxaway. Stacker used 2020 data from WalletHub to determine the 46 best U.S. lake towns to live in, evaluating each on six factors: affordability, weather, safety, economy, education and health, and quality of . Black Mountain features quaint shops, impressive restaurants (including Phils Bar-B-Que Pit! The Jackson County Courthouse stands proudly on the hill at the end of Main Street in the quaint town of Sylva. Burnsville is an authentic mountain experience with an artistic flair. While in the area, dont miss out on Apple Hill Farm, an ethical and working alpaca farm! bottom: 80px; /* 80px from the bottom of your screen */ } ), How to See Elk River Falls (Trail and Safety Tips), 100+ Unique Things to Do in North Carolina, The Asheville Art Museum (How to Visit + 7 Great Things to Do), Winter in Boone (20 Great Activities, Snow Tubing, and More! Burnsville offers an authentic small-town experience, with a cute downtown area, where you can find shops, restaurants, and galleries lining the town square. Read More: The Best NC Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes. You'll find the Great Smoky Mountains on the Eastern side of Tennessee. 3. Read More: 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Maggie Valley. .ai-viewport-0 { display: none !important;} Show Transcript. 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. That last part is why Wilkes County is also home to the first-ever NASCAR track. One of the top things to do in the summer is to catch the long running outdoor drama, Horn in the West. You can view Fontana Lake in Graham County, too, though another spot is near Bryson Citys Road to Nowhere. Each year, they hold several celebrated events, like the Carolina Mountains Literary Festival and the Mt. The sparkling North Carolina lake of the same name is the main draw for this mountain town. Mitchell Craft Fair, adding to their creative haven atmosphere. Summer is the real draw, when the surrounding mountains turn a blissful green and offer up a wealth of natural treasures. Our weekly newsletter shares weekly updates and tips on upcoming events. There are many opportunities for phenomenal hikes, waterfalls, climbing, watersports, and winter sports to engage in here. The Best of North Carolina: Still in the planning stage of your next vacation? Morganton is charming town in the foothills surrounded by beautiful scenery and outdoor adventure opportunities. Its located at the junction of the Appalachian Trail and the French Broad River, making it a great jumping off point for some excursions into nature. The unmatched beauty and privacy of the area is the most appealing aspect of what residents love about Lake Toxaway. }, false ); Set right alongside the Green River, Saluda is a hotspot for water adventures, such as tubing, kayaking, and rafting. Here are the best places to live near the mountains! @media (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 979px) { 13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in North Carolina, 20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Charlotte, NC, 16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Wilmington, NC, 12 Top-Rated Mountain Resorts in North Carolina, 13 Top-Rated Beach Resorts in North Carolina, 10 Top-Rated Campgrounds in the Outer Banks, NC, 11 Top-Rated Rivers for Trout Fishing in North Carolina, 17 Top Cheap Ski Holidays in North America, 2023, 14 Top-Rated Small Towns in North Carolina, 3 Top Places for Deep Sea Fishing in North Carolina, 11 Top-Rated Romantic Getaways in North Carolina, 12 Top-Rated Waterfalls in North Carolina, North Carolina in Pictures: 15 Beautiful Places to Photograph, 5 Top-Rated Ski Resorts in North Carolina, 2023, 11 Top-Rated Things to Do in Bay City, MI, 16 Top-Rated Things to Do in Brattleboro, VT, 22 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 21 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World, Photo Source: Burnsville and Yancey County Tourism, North Carolina's most spectacular waterfalls, Top Rivers for Trout Fishing in North Carolina. Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. Located in western North Carolina on what is known as the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau in the Nantahala National Forest, Highlands has been called "the Aspen of the East.". Little Switzerland is a Blue Ridge Parkway NC mountain town that packs quite the punch! The track winds its way through the forest and along the contours of the mountain and since you control the braking, the ride can be as thrilling or sedate as you choose. Stately homes can be found along the residential streets, a few of which have been converted into romantic B&Bs. Outdoor lovers can enjoy wonderful hikes and viewpoints in the surrounding Yancey County area, including those on nearby Mt. Hampstead NC. My favorite is Spruce Pine that is my home town but I also love Maggie Valley Boone and Cherokee. } With its very own beach, you can relax on the sandy shores and enjoy a refreshing dip into the cool, shimmering waters. For a tasty and unique treat any time, stop in at the Toasted and Rolled Ice Cream and Bakery, where you can watch your custom ice-cream creation being made right in front of you. If you want to look like a local, hit up the popular watering hole, the Daily Grind & Wine. Ranging in size and shape, North Carolina mountain towns come packed with unique attractions and wait with warm, welcoming smiles. text-decoration: none Asheville, NC Bend, OR Boise, ID Denver, CO Flagstaff, AZ Salt Lake City, UT South Lake Tahoe, CA Tacoma, WA Asheville, NC Photo via @jared_kay Population: 87,531 Home Price: $212,000 median purchase price; $910 median monthly rent Crime Rate: Safer than 3% of U.S. cities Known as the home of the White Squirrel (and annual festival! jQuery && jQuery( function( $ ) { Rolling hills surround the town, and the Tuckasegee River runs through the middle. South Lake Tahoe Might Be a Good Option. Fishing in North Carolina: The mountains are also a great place for fishing. 9. Asheville is one of the coolest mountain towns in NC and by population, its the biggest in this guide. North Carolina is bracing for severe weather headed our way. fbq( 'track', 'PageView', { 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. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Waynesville. This is also a popular area for trout fishing in North Carolina, particularly in the fall, with the Watauga River presenting a great opportunity for anglers. Stop into Myras 1950s style diner for a taste of the good old days. Of course, they can serve as the perfect base for some of the best hiking trails and the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina. } 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. The university, one of the more popular ones in the North Carolina system, has brought more and more young people to the area, so there's always something cultural to do on the weekends. Mica Gallery is one of a few spaces that showcase local artists from here and surrounding counties. The North Carolina mountains are renowned for offering up a charming slice of small-town life and local culture, including everything from moonshine and bluegrass music to country cooking and . On the edge of the town is Soco Falls. You'll find everything from t-shirt shops to ski outfitters and restaurants here. Read More: Western North Carolina Map (400+ Wonderful Places Listed). 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. Whether Cashiers is the ideal location or an elegant private estate on the shores of Lake Toxaway beacons, contact any of our Landmark real estate brokers to help you explore the area and find your next North Carolina dream home. At an elevation of 3,500, the town is surrounded by mountain peaks of 5,000 feet or more and is within close proximity to a number of natural resources to enjoy. It is a popular tourist destination as well, so developing tourism . Accommodation: Where to Stay in Banner Elk. There are a few hiking trails there, too, which are among the best in the area. Dont forget that Burnsville is home to a great restaurant scene, which you can explore downtown and beyond! Overall SnackAbility. We mentioned Lake Junaluska earlier and thought you should know that it is only 3 miles away from Waynesville. 7. Explore the charming downtown area on foot to discover its collection of shops, restaurants, breweries, and a famous Mast General Store that features an eclectic selection of souvenirs and candy. In Highlands you will also find high-end dining and bustling boutiques downtown. Below are the best North Carolina mountain towns for your next gorgeous getaway. Beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a great vibe. There's a lot to do here, such as hiking the famous Appalachian Trail and rafting down the Cheoah River. A little over an hour west of Asheville, Bryson City calls itself the gateway to the Smokey Mountains, and is, in fact, a great option for travelers looking to visit the park. We welcome you to the North Carolina mountains; we know youll just love it here! Main Street is a mix of restaurants and retail shops, including a disproportionate number of bookstores considering the size of the town. Old Fort. Ayden wasn't even in the top 40 cheapest places to live in North Carolina last year, so this jump up to the #2 spot is quite impressive. The heart of the area is the quaint town square. Sit down and have a meal at a diner, or visit the Andy Griffith Museum! Appalachian Ski Resort is just minutes away and is a top destination for snowboarders and young skiers. Yes, Colorado boasts its fair share of ski resort towns known for drawing the rich and famous: Aspen, Vail, Breckenridge , Telluride and the like. Floating high at 3,700 feet is one of the best NC mountain townsBanner Elk. Great place to visit! #1 Best Places to Live in North Carolina Morrisville Suburb of Raleigh, NC 79 reviews Niche User: Morrisville is one of my favorite cities in the Triangle Area of North Carolina. Cameron grew up in Charlotte and spent his childhood traveling around this great region. Banner Elk, NC 28604, USA. For a traditional lodge experience, stay at the Chetola Lodge looking out over Chetola Lake. Take in the views overlooking the charming downtown from Sunset Rock. Youll enjoy walking on its brick sidewalks while admiring the towns historic buildings. .inside-article{ Set on the edge of the Yadkin Valley, there are also an array of award-winning wineries nearby. The old brick buildings have been restored in a thriving downtown that offers all the amenities you could need. According to Trico Long Distance Movers, the best place to live in the mountains in the United States is Telluride in Colorado. Emerald Outback has plenty of trails to trek through dense old-growth forests, lush fields, and babbling mountain brooks in the warmer months. In the fall, U-pick farms like Grandad's Apples N' Such open up and make a fun stop for families. The city is named after pioneer Daniel Boone and has breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. ), downtown Brevard is charming and boasts the best toy store in North Carolina, O.P. In early September, the Morganton Festival is a huge event with big name bands, celebrations, games, and arts and crafts vendors set up in the streets. .generate-back-to-top:visited { Shown below in no particular order are 12 of our favorites. Take a horseback ride at Shady Grove Dude Ranch, see DeSoto Falls, and book a cabin rental to take in the mountain air. } Its historic and Swiss-style architecture adds to its charm. Cities are fun but sometimes it's nice to swap the busy roads for the peaceful streets of a small mountain town. This is the best of the North Carolina mountain towns to soak all your worries away. } At 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is home to awesome views but also, some pretty great ski resorts. The last one is an amazing introduction to the latter state park. .ai-viewport-1 { display: none !important;} Read More: The Asheville Art Museum (How to Visit + 7 Great Things to Do). In fact, the town is home to the only fly fishing trail in the United States. Down the road from Banner Elk is Sugar Mountain, home to one of our best ski resorts. The Valdese Recreation Department oversees five parks in the area but we think you must visit McGalliard Falls. Median household income: $40,875. Table Rock Mountain is one of the best hikes around. Surrounded by rolling hills, it has many hikes for sweeping sights, such as the Nantahala Gorge. Known as the apple capital of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hendersonville is a great central stop for all the scenery of the area. The Tuskegee River runs right through town, offering ample opportunity for tubing, rafting, and paddleboarding. Residents enjoy natural settings with a wellness center with a pool and tennis court, parks, playgrounds, trails, outdoor/indoor gathering spaces for community . Its a hotspot for entertainment, with music at the Folkmoot, the acclaimed HART Theater, and Mountain Street Dances every Friday night. Wilmington is one of the best places to live in North Carolina near the beach as it is more affordable than the Outer Banks, which is the state's most popular coastal vacation spot. Here are some ideas to point you in the right direction. NC Tripping uses Mediavine to manage all third-party advertising on this Website. The Museum of NC Handicrafts offers distinctive displays of work by a range of North Carolina artists. Advertisement. Highlands attracts those looking for a quaint atmosphere, in this hidden mountain gem. Similar lists have been published by other websites, including this one that also includes Boone, Brevard, and Morganton. All of these mountain towns in NC possess something unique, which is why we cant choose our favorite. Read More: National Parks Sites in North Carolina. Boones truly a four-season destination: they boast hiking and waterfalls in spring through fall and world-class skiing in the winter. The water also calls anglers to cast their lines in a variety of streams great for fly fishing. Its a small town that harkens back to simpler times with vintage signs and brick buildings. The relatively low elevation, 1,991 feet, means it's warmer here in spring, which can be a real advantage. North Carolina mountain towns have a lot to offer those looking for extraordinary property surrounded by picturesque views to take in the natural beauty of the region and exquisite activities accompanied by top dining options. My favorite is Flat Rock because I am a resident. Retail shops and restaurants can be found on Sylva's Main Street. }
Read More: Christmas in North Carolina (the Best Holiday Events). Add to that a good selection of restaurants, many with outdoor patios in summer; hotels; and attractions; and it's not surprising you frequently hear people describing Hendersonville as the best small town in North Carolina. This town nestled amongst the foothills is rich in history and architecture. Please visit our Disclosure and Privacy Policy pages for further explanation. shaka wear graphic tees is candy digital publicly traded ellen lawson wife of ted lawson best places to live in south carolina mountains 25 Feb/23 (No Ratings Yet) Madison County seat Marshall sits just north of Asheville and Buncombe County. There is a lot to discover when you live in North Carolina mountain towns. Park the car and wander through small shops, discover local cuisine, and enjoy the fresh mountain air, or take a drive through the spectacular scenery to find waterfalls, lookouts, and hiking trails. Spend some time wandering around, stop in at the Mountain Fresh Grocery to pick up a quick bite or fresh coffee, or enjoy a lunch at one of the many restaurants. Some are more touristy than others, but none of the NC beaches are as touristy as Myrtle Beach, SC.I like Beaufort, but it's not right on the beach. 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. You can tour exciting educational museums and villages and browse many locally hand-made arts and crafts. .ai-viewports {--ai: 1;} This quaint mountain village at 3,700 feet elevation has great restaurants, breweries, shops, Wildcat Lake beach, and many events including the Woolly Worm Festival in October. Bridal Veil Falls, which is between Highlands and Dry Falls, offers North Carolinas only drive behind the waterfall. In the summer, these same ski hills feature downhill mountain bike courses for those fearless on two wheels. } Begin with our list of the best mountain towns in North Carolina. This famous performance, running each summer since 1952, tells the story of Daniel Boone's adventures in the local area. Spruce Pine is a nice spot throughout the year, but two events here are really coolthe NC Mineral and Gem Festival in August and SPACE (Spruce Pine Alien Conference & Expo) in June. Larry Lamb/Wikimedia. If youve heard the saying From Murphy to Manteo, then you might already know that the former is the western end of US-64 in North Carolina. You might say its a Foothills or Piedmont town, but well argue otherwise. This gives the area a hip youthfulness that many find appealing. Waynesville is a small town in Haywood County, North Carolina known for its picturesque setting in the Great Smoky Mountains and its close proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Sylva is one of the most interesting and quaint NC mountain towns youll find. ), these are the best mountain towns in America. Its a picture-perfect pick with plenty of kitsch to go around. 2. Come explore the best mountain towns in NC! Discover destinations, find outdoor adventures, follow the journeys of our travel writers around the world, and be inspired. Brevard is frequently ranked as one of the best small towns in WNC, and it's for good reason. Blowing Rock offers a beautiful balance between the new and the old. Visit the Old Fort Arrowhead Monument to get a peek into its interesting past. A massive aquarium, a mountain coaster and. Explore the hiking trails and waterfalls, and if you are here on a weekend, check the local events calendar to see the complete lineup of festivals. Its also known for The Diamondback, a road full of dangerous curves and beautiful vistas, popular among many daring drivers. Read More: 50+ Great Things to Do in Asheville (Downtown, Biltmore, and More!). Lake Glenville Lake Glenville is hidden away in the mountains of western North Carolina, surrounded by hiking trails that wind through natural mountain beauty to waterfalls. Cashiers is in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest and provides a front row view to the spectacular annual fall foliage. Several Western NC towns made the list, including Fletcher (#3), Woodfin (#12), and Black Mountain (#20). Venture out and explore the rest of Burke County, hike to Hawksbill Mountains peak, Linville Falls, the nearby Wisemans View in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, and High Shoals Falls inside South Mountains State Park. We're always looking for hidden gems here in the Tarheel State, and we'd love to hear from you. Saluda is a popular spot for rafting and tubing along the Green River. One of the largest North Carolina mountain towns on this list, we absolutely love all the fun things to do in Hendersonville. The downtown is chock full of charming shops, restaurants, and Brevard breweries. Tryon International Equestrian Center is a world-class facility for horse racing and riding. Hendersonville Main Street, Hendersonville | Photo Copyright: Lana Law Asheville may be the best-known destination in the mountains of North Carolina, but Hendersonville is a wonderful small-town alternative. Just 15 minutes from two of the best ski resorts in North Carolina, Banner Elk is a popular winter destination. Asheville lies at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains, the highest portion of the Appalachian Range. Hot Springs is one of the most adorable North Carolina mountain communities, best known for its hot mineral springs. .ai-viewport-1 { display: none !important;} With a mix of unique shops and galleries, art festivals, and a charming downtown, this Jackson County NC mountain town lives and breathes local art. 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. For local beer and live music, hit Nantahala Brewing, one of the best breweries in North Carolina, before enjoying some amazing Bryson City restaurants. And while private, the close proximity to explore other North Carolina mountain towns is a plus. There's only one "big" city within an hour of the coast and that's Wilmington, with a pop of about 200,000 in New Hanover County, or 260,000+ in the Wilmington MSA.All the beach towns rely on a tourist-driven economy. 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. Stowe, Vt Getting There: 45 minutes from Burlington International Airport IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers' personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Brevard has a pleasant feel about it. $( document.body ).append( '
' ); Upon graduation, she met her partner, Cameron, and they traveled the world together crossing 85 countries and six continents. Grand Highlands encompasses 300 acres of woodlands and meadows. At an elevation of 4,118 feet, the temperatures, even in the peak of summer, rarely get above the high 70s. At the same time, Chattanooga has many urban pleasures, including dining and entertainment options, a wide variety of public. Annual celebrations like the Elk Fest and Hillbilly Jamboree are reason enough to visit. Spend a luxurious weekend at The Old Edwards Inn and roam the charming shops. One of our absolute favorite North Carolina mountain towns is Maggie Valley, a consistent family vacation spot. The Macon County Gemboree is one of the most widely known gem shows in the entire country. Address: Pinehurst, NC, USA Address: Davidson, NC, USA Address: Winterville, NC, USA Address: Trent Woods, NC 28562, USA Address: Apex, NC, USA Address: Cary, NC, USA Address: Black Mountain, NC 28711, USA Address: Valdese, NC, USA It is a small community of approximately 2,500 people, and the main industries in this area are skiing and tourism. You can find works from hundreds of artists, all in this small scenic setting. Known as the states oldest attraction, there is plenty to see and do within, Nestled in North Carolinas Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone is a quaint and charming borough with surprisingly plenty of things to do! Frostys in Ashe County is one of our favorite Christmas tree farms in North Carolina. The mountains of North Carolina are dotted with quaint towns but it seems that Highlands gets much of the acclaim. Just outside of the Great Smoky National Park sits the home of the eastern band of the indigenous Cherokee tribe. Youll also encounter a thriving art community through the Toe River Arts and awesome barn quilt trails! Murphy is loaded with natural wonders, with mountains, lakes, and rivers all around it, and is one of the best mountain towns in North Carolina. Thank you, Lori! 3 Brevard at No. The old-fashioned charm of Maggie Valley is a refreshing escape to a slowed-down era of simplicity. min-width: 310px; Check out Toe River Arts, the Design Gallery, and the Quilt Block Trails. /***Mediavine Mobile Fix***/ Whether drawn to the fresh mountain air, top dining, award-winning art galleries and unique shopping boutiques all and more can be found in the mountains of North Carolina. Downtown, youll find vintage motels, lots of motorcyclists, and the best pancakes of your life at Joeys Pancake House! It's famous for its' "all American" Main Street, but it offers so much more. Climb to the top of Mount Jefferson to take in the views overlooking the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. Its known as the gateway to the Blue Ridge mountains. We receive compensation if you make a purchase, but it won't cost you anything extra. Youll love Murphy for its fun downtown and the surrounding NC mountains, water, and trails. Near Beech Mountain skiing and Grandfather Mountain hiking. #1 in Best Mountain Towns to Visit in the USA For a mountain getaway the whole family will enjoy, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is an ideal destination. Enjoy creekside beers at BearWaters Brewing, dance at Stompin Ground, and zoom through the iconic Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum. 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. Best North Carolina Mountain Towns Guide Banner Elk Blowing Rock Boone Brevard Bryson City Burnsville Cherokee Franklin Hendersonville Hot Springs Morganton Murphy Sylva Weaverville West Jefferson Downtown Banner Elk NC, photo by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett 1. Read More: How to See Elk River Falls (Trail and Safety Tips). Information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. Skiing in North Carolina: With elevations that exceed 5,000 feet and extensive snowmaking equipment, the mountains of North Carolina offer excellent opportunities for skiing.