JACKSON COUNTY, N.C. (February 23, 2016) – Cool off this summer and explore the towns of Western North Carolina like never before. Beat the heat and experience the thrills of whitewater rafting, kayaking and plunging into a refreshing mountain pool. If relaxation and capturing scenic beauty are on the itinerary, Jackson County, NC is full of leisure water activities that include fly fishing, boating and scenic treks to stunning waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy all of these summer fun activities and more in the mountain towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro, Sylva, Balsam, Cullowhee, Glenville and Sapphire.

Those of the adventurous sort will be excited to know that Jackson County is home to four white water rivers. The Tuckasagee, Chattooga, Oconaluftee and nearby Nantahala Rivers offer rapids ranging from Class I to Class IV, with more difficult rapids appearing during the summer releases of the Glenville Dam.

During the Glenville Dam releases, the normally dormant High Falls is an extraordinary sight to see, along an approximately 1.5-mile round trip hike. Releases are regularly scheduled from May through August. The rivers’ currents are perfect for both beginners and experienced kayakers and Tuckaseegee Outfittersand Smoky Mountain River Adventures offer guided, group rafting adventures as well as equipment rentals for the spontaneous vacationer.

Cast out a line and reel in a rainbow trout in picturesque Jackson County. Anglers of all skill levels are ready to retreat to Jackson County and fish the first and only fly fishing trail in the United States. The Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail is made up of more than 70 miles of rivers and streams. The area’s crystal-clear streams feature some of the best trout waters in the Great Smoky Mountains. The Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail website allows anglers to easily download a map, descriptions and GPS coordinates for 15 prime locations for catching brook, brown and rainbow trout and can easily be found online at www.flyfishingtrail.com. Be sure to stop by Black Rock Outdoor Center, Brookings Cashiers Village Anglers, Hookers, The Mountain Outpost Outfitters, Fontana Guides or AB’s Fly Fishing Guide Service to reserve an expert guide. With years of experience, guides can easily read the rivers to direct anglers to the best spots to fish.

Families looking for some leisure time on the water will enjoy boating access to Lake Glenville, Bear Creek Lake and Wolf Creek Lake. Lake Glenville is the largest of the area’s lakes and has the highest elevation of any lake east of the Mississippi. Rent a lakefront home and go boating, paddleboarding, swimming and waterskiing while surrounded by the scenic beauty of Jackson County. Or spend a day casting a line with Dream Catcher Guides, the area’s lake fishing guide service.

Be sure to reserve a day to see the stunning waterfalls of Jackson County. Take a scenic drive or hike and explore the county’s 19 cascading waterfalls. Popular area waterfalls include Cullasaja Falls, Dry Falls, Silver Run Falls and Whitewater Falls, the highest waterfall in the eastern United States with an elevation of 411 feet. After, head to Cashiers Sliding Rock and cool off from the hot summer sun. Cashiers Sliding Rock is a popular place for kids of all ages to take a plunge in the refreshing mountain waters during the summer months.

Visitors can pick up the Jackson County Hiking & Waterfall Map, which includes driving and hiking directions to waterfalls, hiking trails, multiple-use trails for riding or biking, semi-private or public golf courses, whitewater rafting and water sports outfitters, horseback riding locations and recreational rental service locations. The map can be found at state and local visitor centers, area retail shops, restaurants and overnight accommodations. The map is also available to download on the Jackson County Tourism website.

Jackson County is located approximately 2 to 3 hours from major cities, such as Atlanta, Greenville and Charlotte and only 1 hour away from nearby Asheville. Plan a summer mountain getaway today and get more information about Jackson County at http://www.MountainLoversNC.com.