Keep Up with Your New Resolutions in Jackson County
Keep Up with Your New Resolutions in Jackson County
The new year is underway, and you know what that means: New Year’s resolutions. While there may be one or two other things on the list, for most folks, New Year’s resolutions usually focus on these four: getting fit, eating healthier, scheduling more “me” time and spending more time with loved ones. And luckily, a getaway to the mountains towns of Jackson County in Western North Carolina is the perfect place to keep up with your resolutions! Given that people today are looking for a quick escape from their everyday lives, Jackson County answers the call. The county’s small-town ambience offers visitors anything they could possibly want: outdoor adventure, shopping, fishing, dining, breweries and much more. It’s easy to maintain good habits even while enjoying yourself on vacation in Jackson County because it isn’t a “one size fits all” destination. Instead, you can customize your visit based on your wants, needs and goals to create a getaway that aligns with your New Year’s resolutions. Thanks to the stress-free vibe of the mountains, you can kick off the new year with a healthy, fresh start. Get Active One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to exercise more. Unfortunately, most folks quickly become bored with the gym and the same fitness routine. Given the wide array of outdoor adventures available in Jackson County, you can participate in a new and exciting activity every day of your visit while keeping up with your resolutions. The miles of trails throughout the county’s […]
Looking Back: A 2018 Year in Review in Jackson County
Looking Back: A 2018 Year in Review in Jackson County
Covering 494 square miles of the Western North Carolina mountains, Jackson County encompasses some of the state’s most beautiful views, signature events, outstanding art and culture, friendly people, and so much more – a combination has led to an amazing 2018 for the area. Jackson County has been quite the happening hot spot in North Carolina, and here is a look back at some of the best moments from the last 12 months.
Jackson County Will Light the Way to a Perfect Holiday Getaway
Jackson County Will Light the Way to a Perfect Holiday Getaway
The holiday season is nearly upon us, which means it is almost time for twinkling lights, hot cocoa with marshmallows, family traditions and warm memories. Located in Western North Carolina in the quaint mountain town of Dillsboro, the 35th Annual Festival of Lights and Luminaries allows you to experience all of the above in a magical winter wonderland!
Insider’s Guide to the WNC Fly Fishing Trail®
Insider’s Guide to the WNC Fly Fishing Trail®
Brook, Brown and Rainbow … oh my! The angler’s paradise of Jackson County, N.C., is home to all three of these trout species and the best trout waters in N.C. Located in the western N.C. mountains, Jackson County is also home to the country’s first and only fly fishing trail, making it a must-visit for any and all fishermen. Jackson County’s WNC Fly Fishing Trail® will take anglers through a variety of fly fishing experiences, from wade fishing to float fishing, from small streams to big water. Along the trail, guests will experience 15 prime fishing stops, more than 4,600 miles of streams and 1,100 miles of hatchery supported waters. The natural beauty of the area coupled with the well-stocked waters, make our county the ideal destination to cast a line. Julie Spiro, one of the creators of the trail said that it was “created to enhance what the area was already well-known for, but to not detract from the natural beauty.”
Follow the Blue Ridge Parkway to Fall in Jackson County
Follow the Blue Ridge Parkway to Fall in Jackson County
(Photo courtesy James Leithart) When it comes to enjoying the beauty of fall’s vibrant colors, nothing beats a leisurely road trip through the mountains of Western North Carolina. The crisp, cool air, scenic views and peaceful serenity allow visitors to take in what many say is their favorite time of year. One of the best routes to explore the area’s brilliant autumnal hues is along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Jackson County. Created in 1936 with the final 7.7-mile stretch completed in 1987, the Blue Ridge Parkway was constructed to link the Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Today, the road covers 469 miles, stretching from Virginia to North Carolina. More than 40 miles traverse our county, including the highest section of the entire Parkway. As a result, the area attracts leaf lookers each year who come to take in the rich colors of autumn in the mountains. 2018’s rainy summer will bring out warm hazel tones, siennas and golden yellows throughout Jackson County beginning in September. Dr. Beverly Collins, biology professor at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, is predicting peak color around the fourth week of October and expects color to extend through early November. Unlike portions of the Parkway farther north in the state, the section here is generally much less congested, making it more enjoyable to explore. Plus, because the Parkway speed limit is just 45 mph, with some areas seeing even lower limits, it’s easy to cruise along leisurely while taking in the […]
Total Solar Eclipse of 2017
Total Solar Eclipse of 2017
Do you remember where you were on Aug. 21, 2017? Well if you were in the NC Mountain towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro and Sylva, you had a front row seat to one of the greatest natural phenomena in your lifetime – the Great American Eclipse. We were in the dark for almost two minutes (or more). Take a peek at our photo and video gallery to commemorate the one year anniversary this Aug. 21. Top photo courtesy Allaire Bartel
“Un”leash in Jackson County
“Un”leash in Jackson County
Everyone knows that a dog is man’s best friend, so why should they have to miss out on a fun outdoor getaway? According to the American Pet Products Association, 37 percent of pet owners travel with their pets. With countless hiking trails perfect for stretching those two, or four, legs, plenty of creeks to splash around in and multiple pet-friendly restaurants and accommodations, pet owners should look no further than the western North Carolina mountains of Jackson County. With a wide variety of pet-friendly adventures, we are the perfect setting for exploring with your pooch.
Six hot spots to cool off: ditch the summer heat and head for the hills
Six hot spots to cool off: ditch the summer heat and head for the hills
Bask in the cool mist of a waterfall, paddle a clear mountain lake, plunge into a swimming hole or float a frolicking river. Sound refreshing? Consider this your insider’s guide for escaping the dog days of August with a getaway to the N.C. mountains of Jackson County.
Only in Jackson County, NC
Only in Jackson County, NC
Anyone who has ever had the chance to visit our incredible mountain towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro and Sylva can see that there is something special that stands out about us. Whether it is the mass amounts of towering waterfalls that can be easily accessed, the rivers filled with trout and other fish that are there for the catching, the tasty food and craft beer, or the welcoming locals who are just waiting to tell you about the next best spot in town to discover… there are many reasons that people return here time and time again. This one-of-a-kind destination is home to many attractions and hidden gems that can ONLY be found here.
Where art meets the mountains: seven insider tips to make the most of Cashiers Plein Air Festival
Where art meets the mountains: seven insider tips to make the most of Cashiers Plein Air Festival
Experience art live and on location with an elevated summer escape to the mountain hamlet of Cashiers, N.C. where visiting artists will crawl the town and countryside with easels and pallets in tow for five days this July. The Cashiers Plein Air Festival is a celebration of art that comes alive before your eyes — on sidewalks and patios, in gardens and pastures, overlooking mountainsides and scenic vistas. French for “open air,” plein air painting is a rare form of spectator art that’s yours to experience during this year’s festival from July 17-21.