Exploring Underrated Mountain Towns in Jackson County, NC

Exploring Underrated Mountain Towns in Jackson County, NC
While those of us who call Jackson County home or have had the chance to visit understand the beauty of the region, it’s always wonderful to see the first-hand impression of a new visitor. We recently partnered with Matt Van Swol, a blogger and outdoor enthusiast, for an experience visit to Jackson County. In addition to sharing beautiful images and video on his Instagram profile, Matt shared the following blog post highlighting his weekend getaway to Jackson County.
The Roads to Fall Color

The Roads to Fall Color
While most people who prefer to do their exploring by car know the Blue Ridge Parkway offers unparalleled sightseeing and hiking opportunities – especially during October’s spectacular leaf show – not everyone realizes that it’s possible to turn a Parkway experience into a scenic loop through eastern Jackson County.
Hello Sylva, Darlin’, it’s Hollywood Again

Hello Sylva, Darlin’, it’s Hollywood Again
Sylva is lighting up the silver screen once more in the critically-acclaimed Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. Ahead of its November 2017 release, Three Billboards has already raked in the accolades, including the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto Film Festival and Best Screen Play at the Venice Film Festival.
Jackson County’s Fall 2017 Leaf Report: Planning Your Leaf-Seeking Adventure

Jackson County’s Fall 2017 Leaf Report: Planning Your Leaf-Seeking Adventure
It’s officially fall, and the hunt for stunning foliage is in full swing. Jackson County in Western North Carolina is a prime viewing destination for those who make the trip during the upcoming peak colors of autumn. With the majestic mountains as a picturesque backdrop, travelers on the move for the best seasonal displays will find the fall colors of their leaf-seeking dreams in Jackson County throughout the next month. Check out the below fall leaf report to plan the perfect trip to catch the colors at their best. Fall 2017 Leaf Report from Beverly Collins, Associate Professor in the Dept. of Biology at Western Carolina University Right now, the earliest species are turning, including: sourwood (red); tulip poplar (yellow and brown); black walnut (yellow), black gum (orange, red). Keep in mind that the timing of color change and peak color varies with elevation. For visitors making a trip to the area soon, the highest elevations in Jackson County could reach peak color as early as the first week in October, or early in the second week. For visitors planning a trip later in the season, the lower elevation likely won’t reach peak (except in spots with ”early” species) until the third week in October. The Top Five Places for a Unique Leaf-Viewing Experience in Jackson County Shadow of the Bear Jackson County is the only place in the country to see the fall phenomena known as the “Shadow of the Bear.” From mid-October to mid-November, when the sun sets […]
Visit Jackson County in October; see classic cars – and colored leaves

Visit Jackson County in October; see classic cars – and colored leaves
Visitors to the mountain towns of Jackson County, NC. are getting revved up for the fall season! October is right around the corner, and the county is gearing up for two spectacular displays of classic cars. The annual Cruise-In at Sylva Plaza will take place Sunday, Oct. 1, and closing out the fall car season will be the Spirit of the Smokies Car Show, set for Saturday, Oct. 28, in Dillsboro.
October is glorious on Whiteside Mountain

October is glorious on Whiteside Mountain
One of Jackson County’s most recognizable peaks is Whiteside Mountain, with its sheer, vertical cliffs that tower above the valley below. And hiking the historic mountain in October, with fall’s colorful foliage beginning to peek through, makes for an exceptionally fine and scenic walk.
For the love of the craft: six fall festivals where Appalachian art shines

For the love of the craft: six fall festivals where Appalachian art shines
The thrill of the hunt, falling in love, and making it yours forever. Let fate be your guide on the heritage craft circuit that weaves through the mountains of Jackson County, North Carolina each fall.
Sylva’s Destination Library

Sylva’s Destination Library
Start with Jackson County’s most photographed building add a modern addition in the same architectural style, mix in dramatic views, then fill with books, computers and community gathering spaces. The result; Jackson County’s most photogenic library. Beautifully located on a hilltop overlooking historic downtown Sylva.
10 Reasons to Visit Jackson County This Labor Day

10 Reasons to Visit Jackson County This Labor Day
Labor Day is the only US holiday dedicated to celebrating the working people, so take advantage of the holiday weekend and treat yourself to a trip to the North Carolina mountain towns of Jackson County! Not only is it conveniently located in the Great Smoky Mountains just a short drive from the Southeast’s major cities, but Jackson County also provides visitors the chance to try many different activities throughout their stay in the area.
Four Ways to Experience Fall in Western North Carolina

Four Ways to Experience Fall in Western North Carolina
Just a short drive from the Southeast’s major cities, Jackson County, North Carolina is the perfect destination for fall getaways, complete with scenic fall foliage views, seasonal outdoor activities, autumn-themed craft beers and much more. Below are ways to celebrate the fall season in the great outdoors of Jackson County, NC with some breaks for brews along the way.