Reconnecting with friends is the perfect reason for a beautiful weekend away in Jackson County, N.C. Picture this: crisp mountain air, stunning scenery and endless adventures shared with your closest friends. Whether you’re celebrating a bachelorette party, seeking rejuvenation and relaxation or simply wanting to create new memories with your friends over unique experiences, Jackson County has it all. If you visit during “Secret Season” from January to March, there are fewer crowds, but the beauty of the mountains remains just as captivating as it is during peak season.

Our experts have crafted the ultimate girls’ trip itinerary in Jackson County, so that all you need to do is arrive to begin creating your personal catalogue of more peak moments together.

Day 1:

• Drop your bags at your home base, whether it’s a bed and breakfast such as Whistle Stop, a mountain retreat like Outland Great Smoky Mountains – Chalet & Suites or a nearby vacation rental. Visit our Lodging page to find what’s most suitable for you and your group. Settle in, enjoy the view and gear up for the fun ahead.

• Head to downtown Sylva for a fly-fishing adventure with Tuck Fly Shop. Whether your group includes first-time or seasoned anglers, their guided tours will have you casting lines into pristine mountain streams. Known as the Trout Capital of North Carolina and home to the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail ®, Jackson County’s streams make for a memorable outing.
• Make a stop at Sante – The Wine Bar before dinner at Lulu’s on Main – both located on Main Street in Downtown Sylva. Both will welcome you and your friends with charming hospitality and delicious food and drink.

Day 2:

• Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local cafe in Downtown Sylva before getting the day started. Check out White Moon Cafe for an aesthetic atmosphere or City Lights Cafe, a favorite spot for locals known for its fresh ingredients and savory or sweet crepes.

• Saddle up for a scenic horseback ride at Smokemont Riding Stables in Cherokee or Arrowmont Stables in Cullowhee. Visitors can embark on guided horseback riding journeys ranging from 45 minutes to two hours on a selection of scenic private trails – a memory to cherish for a lifetime.
• Pamper yourselves with spa treatments at Fusions Spa in Sylva or Canyon Spa at Lonesome Valley in Sapphire, where the nurturing treatments use garden-fresh ingredients from the grounds of nearby restaurant Canyon Kitchen. Choose from a massage, facial or any treatment that helps you relax and rejuvenate. Whether you’re unwinding after a day of adventure or kicking off a weekend of relaxation, these serene spaces offer the perfect reset.
• Spend the evening brewery-hopping. Start with Innovation Brewing and Lazy Hiker Taproom for a flight of craft beers and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for catching up with your crew.
• End the evening with authentic Northern Thai cuisine at Dalaya in Sylva in an intimate setting along the riverbank. Chef Kanlaya Supachana was nominated as Best Chef in the Southeast for the James Beard Foundation Awards and brings culinary excellence to every dish.

Day 3:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Lucy in the Rye before heading out to explore boutique shops in Sylva and Dillsboro. Browse unique finds at Dogwood Crafters, the Fox’s Burrow or Treasure’s Unknown and pick up unique souvenirs to remember your trip.
• Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, stopping at overlooks for stunning photo ops. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the picturesque spots along the way. Fun fact – it was the first road in the world designed for leisure travel.
• Before heading home, head into Cashiers to spot gushing waterfalls, like Whitewater Falls or Silver Run Falls.
• Grab a quick pick me up from local favorite Buck’s Coffee Cafe in Cashiers for the drive home.

Ready to plan your next girls’ getaway to Jackson County? Visit Discover Jackson County for more information on accommodations, dining and seasonal activities.

Header photo courtesy @goosepoint.guide