Merrily Make Your Way to Jackson County, NC This Holiday Shopping Season
Merrily Make Your Way to Jackson County, NC This Holiday Shopping Season
Elevate your seasonal shopping experience by visiting the mountain towns of Jackson County, N.C.! Not only is it a perfect way to support Western North Carolina businesses, but it’s also a great way to discover one-of-a-kind treasures and artisan creations. Plan your trip to merrily make your way down the small-town sidewalks and past the storefront windows adorned for the holidays. We’ve created your perfect Gift Guide for those hand-crafted guaranteed to delight your friends and family members. Make it a complete “gifting getaway” by booking a stay at one of our hotels, cabins, cottages or lodges! And if you can’t decide exactly what to purchase, a gift certificate gives the perfect excuse to make the return trip with them to Jackson County! The Artisan Village of Dillsboro For abundant holiday cheer, one need not look any further than the Village of Dillsboro, named one of the “Five North Carolina Towns That Belong in a Christmas Movie,” by Our State magazine. Strolling the village sidewalks, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported back to simpler days. Listen for the train whistle as the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad delivers passengers to the town as part of its holiday rides. For hand-crafted items that honor Appalachian tradition, don’t miss Dogwood Crafters. A cooperative showcasing mountain arts, crafts and gifts, Dogwood has been a staple in Dillsboro since 1976. Enter the log cabin-style galleries to find handmade treasures created by more than 85 regional artists who keep craft traditions alive. The ever-changing inventory […]
All Aboard the Polar Express: Why Jackson County is the Perfect Holiday Home Base
All Aboard the Polar Express: Why Jackson County is the Perfect Holiday Home Base
If you’re planning a family trip on the Polar Express in Bryson City, NC, why not stay just a short 15-minute drive away in Jackson County? A collection of idyllic mountain towns and picturesque mountain vistas, Jackson County offers an unbeatable combination of convenience, fun and affordability, making it the perfect base for your holiday adventure. Not only will you be close to the train station, but you’ll also have access to a wide range of activities to enjoy before or after your magical journey. All aboard! Explore Sylva and Dillsboro Jackson County is home to Sylva and Dillsboro, two charming mountain towns with less than three miles between them that offer a lot more than just a place to stay. Sylva’s historic downtown is filled with locally-owned shops and unique restaurants. Take a scenic walk along Main Street, stop by a charming café for a warm drink and explore some of the best craft breweries in the region. The iconic Jackson County Courthouse (now Public Library), one of the most photographed buildings in North Carolina, provides a beautiful backdrop to this mountain town. Just minutes away is Dillsboro with a laid-back village vibe and packed with family-friendly activities. It’s home to artisan shops, galleries and delicious eateries. A must-visit is the Dillsboro Chocolate Factory, where you can indulge in handmade chocolates, gourmet treats and fresh-brewed coffee. During the holiday season, Dillsboro comes alive with its “Lights & Luminaries” festival, lighting up the town with thousands of twinkling lights. Outdoor […]
Going Solo: Taking Time for Yourself in the Jackson County, N.C. Mountains
Going Solo: Taking Time for Yourself in the Jackson County, N.C. Mountains
Our Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains are ideal for family vacations and romantic getaways, but they also offer a special kind of haven for those who are looking for some time alone. Whether you’re seeking some R&R, a self-challenge or just some time to take things at your own pace, our mountain towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro and Sylva offer plenty to those who want to go solo. Solo Stays For easy access to the town or village with quaint and comfortable (and even luxe) accommodations, our boutique hotels are perfect for the solo traveler. Consider newly-renovated Hotel Sylva, conveniently located on Main Street with easy walks to restaurants and shops, or Hotel Cashiers, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Cashiers Crossroads area surrounded by boutiques, a barbecue restaurant and a brewery. If you’re looking to collect points at a familiar chain property, try pet-friendly Clarion Pointe of Sylva or the mountain vibes of the Hampton Inn and Suites in the Cashiers/Sapphire area. Forest Therapy For a one-of-a-kind meditative experience in nature, don’t miss out on a therapy tour of the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, aka “forest bathing,” led by Dr. Mark Ellison at Pinnacle Park, the first Certified Forest Therapy Trail in the North Carolina. Dr. Ellison has led hundreds of these tours, and each time he guides his participants to spend intentional time in nature through the senses, by listening to the water, smelling the flowers, etc. It’s the perfect opportunity to unplug and be present without […]
Your Autumn Adventure Itinerary in the N.C. Mountains
Your Autumn Adventure Itinerary in the N.C. Mountains
It’s that time of year! Cool autumn air is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to plan your trip to the N.C. Mountains! Each fall, our mountain towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro and Sylva experience one of the longest leaf seasons in the country, spanning from early October to mid-November. Plan your getaway to enjoy the changing hue of the leaves in addition to the signature events, cool hikes and seasonal flavors for which Jackson County, N.C. is known. And here’s a tip: Visit “midweekend” to experience fewer crowds, little to no wait at your favorite restaurants and lower-priced lodging with more availability. While you’re here, please also be mindful of our beautiful environment and help keep our mountains “clean and green” for generations to come. Learn how here. A Peek at the Peak: Your 2024 Leaf Color Forecast Mother Nature is on her own schedule, but science can help predict where and when the fall leaf colors will be at their peak. This year, the season may run a bit longer and later in Jackson County; it is safe to say between early October and early November, the bold hues of gold, rust and orange may be found somewhere in our area. Note: Leaf colors depend on various environmental factors, including rainfall, temperature and storms, so predictions are subject to change. Hike Into an Autumn Adventure Cool, crisp air, the crunch of fallen leaves and mountaintop views of “fruity pebbles” for miles are just a few […]
Please Every Palate and Price With A Taste of Jackson County, N.C.
Please Every Palate and Price With A Taste of Jackson County, N.C.
Nestled within the mountains of Jackson County, N.C., amazing restaurants are ready to please every palate and price. Our small towns offer big flavors, from eateries with loyal followings and impressive accolades to tried-and-true comfort food favorites. You’ll find white linen experiences set against spectacular granite backdrops, tucked-away taverns steps off the village sidewalks and an array of tastes sure to please even the most discriminating foodie and adventurous appetite. Jackson County is home to award-winning chefs and rising culinary stars who offer dishes that are eclectic and intriguing, no matter the price point. Many make creative use of farm-to-table and locally-sourced ingredients. Here, you may find more than one trout dish on the menu, but each will offer its own, imaginative twist. Plan your culinary journey, starting from the southern end of Jackson County, in Sapphire and Cashiers, and work your way up N.C. 107 to Sylva and Dillsboro. And don’t forget to make your lodging reservations so you can rest and relax after your delicious meals. While almost every locally-owned restaurant in Jackson County is worthy of praise, we’ve selected a few that are guaranteed to serve a memorable meal! Canyon Kitchen: Taking Flavor to Great Heights – Sapphire With clear views of thousand-foot granite cliffs, Canyon Kitchen offers one of the most dramatic and beautiful restaurant settings in the country – a dining experience sure to stir the soul and senses. It’s easy to see why Food & Wine selected Canyon Kitchen for its “Most Romantic Restaurant […]
Protecting the Beauty of Jackson County, N.C.
Protecting the Beauty of Jackson County, N.C.
Our mountain towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro, and Sylva offer abundant natural beauty and distinct mountain amenities that make Jackson County, N.C. a truly special place. As you gear up for your next trip to Western North Carolina, please be environmentally mindful, keep yourself, your loved ones and wildlife safe and help keep our mountains “clean and green” for generations to come. Curious where to start? Review our Guide to Safe and Responsible Recreation. Below is a list of simple ways in which we can all do our part. Before You Go Traveling more sustainably and minimizing the impact on our natural environment is easy! It’s part of a growing lifestyle movement called “green travel” and it begins with packing and planning ahead. Consider these tips: Pack a reusable water bottle. Bring your own tote bags for shopping. Bring reusable toiletry containers. Turn off the heating/air conditioning system and any electronics (at home and at the vacation property) when not in use. Pick up any litter you see, especially along hiking trails. Recycle everything you can! Support local/locally-owned businesses. Select activities with minimal carbon footprints, such as hiking, biking and kayaking. Ensure any interactions with wildlife are handled responsibly. Respecting Wildlife Jackson County is centrally located between two of America’s favorite National Park Sites, the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the temperate world, with over 19,000 documented species. This means wildlife is abundant and precious. To reduce your […]
Splash, Swim and Stay Cool in the N.C. Mountains
Splash, Swim and Stay Cool in the N.C. Mountains
Our towns stay much cooler in the summer and are scenically nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. During the day, take advantage of our many natural swimming holes or lakes for a refreshing dip. In the evenings, temperatures can drop into the low 60’s, providing plenty of mosquito-free nights. In some of the highest elevations along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you can find blueberries along the hillsides and some of the best long-range mountain views in the country alongside these pleasant temperatures.
Rest, Relax and Recharge in the Jackson County, N.C. Mountains
Rest, Relax and Recharge in the Jackson County, N.C. Mountains
Far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life in larger cities, the Western North Carolina Mountains are known for outdoor adventures — hiking, waterfall chasing, paddling river rapids and more, all of which offer a rejuvenating kind of magic. But what if you want to downshift completely and simply… well, rest? Here’s the great news: It’s easy to find that kind of R&R in Jackson County, NC, too. Take in Your Surroundings, Uninterrupted Here, we trade traffic for trees. Jackson County takes up nearly 500 square miles of Western North Carolina in which are overflowing (pun intended) with waterfalls, beautiful trails, and of course, breathtaking mountain views. For hikers on the hunt for a scenic overlook via a worthwhile trek, be sure to add our more advanced trails like Yellow Mountain or Panthertown Valley, comprised of more than 6,311 acres of rugged backcountry, to your itinerary. If you seek something easier and family-friendly, Waterrock Knob or Black Balsam are great options. And then there’s accessible and paved paths like the Tuckasegee River Greenway, which are ideal for a leisurely stroll on a beautiful day. We’ve got something for everyone, and you’ll find more on these hikes and all our best trails here. For a one-of-a-kind meditative experience in nature, don’t miss out on a therapy tour of the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, aka “forest bathing,” led by Dr. Mark Ellison at Pinnacle Park, which just recently became the first Certified Forest Therapy Trail in the state of North Carolina. […]
Looking for Quirky or Unique? You’ll Find it in Jackson County, N.C.
Looking for Quirky or Unique? You’ll Find it in Jackson County, N.C.
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.
Experience Golden Hour in Jackson County, N.C. With These Top Sunrise & Sunset Spots
Experience Golden Hour in Jackson County, N.C. With These Top Sunrise & Sunset Spots
Golden hour is the period of daytime shortly after sunrise or before sunset, when daylight is redder and softer than when the sun is higher in the sky, making for some of the best viewing experiences. Jackson County’s elevation and peaks make it a favorite for visitors to enjoy this unmatched part of the day. At our overlooks, it is possible to see for miles, taking in the endless valleys and peaks that seem to await endlessly in the distance.