Why Winter in Jackson County is the South’s Best-Kept (and Budget-Friendly) Secret ​

When winter falls over the Blue Ridge Mountains, something special happens in Jackson County. The pace slows. The mountains stretch in quiet shades of blue and silver. And best of all? You get it almost entirely to yourself.

From January through March, known here as Secret Season, Jackson County becomes one of the South’s most delightful hidden escapes. While other mountain towns are bustling with peak-season crowds and holiday pricing, Jackson County pauses and welcomes travelers seeking peace, affordability and a little magic without the frenzy.

If you're the type of traveler who loves peace and quiet, unique flavors and finding something unique to the destination, this is your season to explore.

More Space to Explore (Without the Crowds)

One of the real joys of winter in Jackson County is simply how unhurried everything feels. You’ll notice it as you settle into a window seat at White Moon or City Lights Café in downtown Sylva. Over in Cashiers, explore local shops like TJ Bailey’s for elevated mountain style or Highland Hiker for gear and inspiration for your next adventure. In Dillsboro, the slower winter pace makes it easy to linger among locally-made treasures at Dogwood Crafters, a craft co-op of over 100 artisans where every handcrafted piece has a story.

This sense of spaciousness extends to the outdoors, too. Trails that hum with visitors in the fall become a little quieter and feel like personal escapes this time of year. When the sun sets, the real show begins as winter’s crisp, clear air creates some of the best stargazing conditions of the year. Head to the open space at The Village Green in Cashiers, the overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway or simply a quiet pull-off just outside town and look up. The sky feels closer here, and the stars look sharper and brighter. 

Family in Downtown Sylva
Shopping in Sylva courtesy @alyssarbunn

Cozy Stays at Secret Season Rates

Winter brings some of the best lodging values of the year, making it easy to stay longer (or upgrade your view).

Places to cozy up this season include:

  • High Hampton – This beloved historic property in Cashiers is filled with rustic-elegant charm and lodge fireplaces, perfect to keep you warm all winter long. With its lowest rates of the year during January and February, it’s an opportune time to experience the magic of one of the most luxurious resorts in the southeast.

High Hampton Resort

  • Hotel Cashiers – This stylish, modern, mountain-chic lodging is right in the heart of Cashiers and offers a Winter & Wine savings package that includes a 20% savings when you book three nights plus a bottle of wine in your room upon arrival.

Hotel Cashiers

The Wells Hotel

  • Hotel Sylva – This boutique hotel right in downtown Sylva is surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. Located within walking distance of shopping & dining, you'll have all you need to enjoy Sylva’s Main Street within a short walk. Visit during Secret Season to get 30% off your second night on a two-night stay.

Hotel Sylva

  • Balsam Mountain Inn – Located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway and nearby the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Balsam Mountain Inn welcomes guests for a cozy getaway. When you visit, enjoy 15% off your stay through our website.

Balsam Mountain Inn Scenic - 05

Whether you prefer a lodge with a grand stone fireplace, a boutique stay steps from dinner downtown or a tucked-away cabin surrounded by pines, Jackson County has many lodging options, as well as vacation rentals.

Warm, Welcoming Small-Town Dining

After a day in the mountain air, winter meals in Jackson County feel especially satisfying, and the region’s independent restaurants offer plenty of cozy spots to settle in. In Sylva, ILDA brings together Appalachian ingredients and Italian traditions for thoughtful, handmade dishes perfect for a slow evening, while Lulu’s on Main remains a cherished favorite for creative comfort plates in a colorful, welcoming setting. Over in Cashiers, The Orchard Restaurant offers refined Southern fare inside a century-old farmhouse that glows on winter evenings, and Slab Town Pizza is the go-to for laid-back, comforting slices after a day on the trails. In Dillsboro, the aroma of slow-smoked barbecue leads you straight to Haywood Smokehouse, where hearty plates with warm you after a day in the cold. Winter encourages diners to linger, sip something warm and enjoy the simple pleasure of gathering around a good meal in good company.

ILDA

Plan Your Winter Getaway

Your winter escape is waiting in Jackson County – experience Secret Season for yourself by visiting DiscoverJacksonNC.com to get started on planning your visit.