Things to Do in Cashiers

Situated on a high plateau in southern Jackson County, Cashiers, North Carolina, is known for its cool summer temperatures, dramatic scenery and relaxed pace. Located about an hour and a half from Asheville’s airport and within easy driving distance of much of the Southeast, it’s both accessible and refreshingly secluded.

Cashiers offers an abundance of outdoor adventures amid natural beauty. A must-see attraction is Whiteside Mountain, where visitors can hike the scenic two-mile loop trail that crosses the Highlands-Cashiers plateau and straddles the Eastern Continental Divide. The trail rewards hikers with breathtaking views from one of the oldest mountain formations on Earth. 

Only a short drive from Sylva and Cullowhee, Cashiers is also home to dozens of waterfalls and has enough to make an entire weekend (and then some) out of a trip. Whitewater Falls cascades an impressive 411 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rockies. Another notable falls is Silver Run Falls, which is more accessible for every ability. There’s also High Falls, which, at 100 feet high, truly lives up to its name. 

You can also visit nearby Sapphire for skiing, hiking, more waterfalls and scenic horse riding excursions with the Whitewater Equestrian Center to explore private trails on horseback. 

For those seeking a deeper exploration of nature, Panthertown Valley—often called the “Yosemite of the East”—features more than 30 miles of rugged backcountry for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing within the Nantahala National Forest (a map is recommended before your visit). Gorges State Park is another option for natural enthusiasts: This rugged mountain preserve is known for its dramatic gorges, towering waterfalls, scenic hiking trails and sweeping views along the Blue Ridge Escarpment. 

If watersports are more your thing, check out Lake Glenville for waterskiing, as well as fishing and the chance to lounge on a sandy beach. If you love history, the Zachary Tolbert House Museum, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers a rare glimpse into the daily lives, traditions, and craftsmanship of the pioneer settlers who first called Cashiers Valley home.

Cashiers Events

Seasonal events in Cashiers add local charm year-round. Groovin’ on The Green is a lively summer concert tradition in Cashiers, held rain or shine on The Village Green Commons Lawn. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, picnic baskets and coolers to enjoy an evening of live entertainment under the mountain sky. Best of all, general admission is always free.

The Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival is another notable local event. This beloved fall celebration is held each October and features local arts and crafts, live music, food vendors and peak autumn foliage in the heart of Cashiers. The Rotary Arts and Crafts shows in nearby Sapphire is also a must-do if you love to peruse local artisans’ wares. 

Restaurants & Dining in Cashiers, NC

Despite its small-town feel, Cashiers boasts a surprisingly diverse dining scene. Visitors will find everything from local breweries like Whiteside Brewing Company and family-friendly eateries like Cornucopia Restaurant to upscale restaurants highlighting regional flavors and seasonal ingredients. Many local menus feature Southern-inspired comfort food alongside fresh mountain trout, locally sourced produce and creative cocktails. 

For those who are into beer and brewing, it’s worth noting that North Carolina boasts more craft breweries and brewpubs than any other state in the southeast. Jackson County’s Brewery Trail gives you the chance to sip various ales and discover all the hops this area has to offer. 

Hotels & Resorts in Cashiers

Accommodations in Cashiers range from cozy cabins and private vacation homes to luxury resorts. The iconic High Hampton, originally established in the early 20th century, has been beautifully renovated and now offers a world-class golf course, elegant lodging, and sweeping mountain views. Many visitors choose to rent a cottage or vacation home and often fall so in love with the area that they return year after year—or decide to make Cashiers their home away from home.

Cashiers offers gorgeous scenery among its waterfalls, lakes, hiking trails, and picnic spots, making it the perfect place for a day trip, family or weekend getaway. Get more ideas for your ideal vacation here, and be sure to visit the FAQ page for the best Cashiers travel tips and tricks. 

More to Explore

For more outdoor activities and unique events in Cashiers, you don’t have to look far. Check out the highlights below:

• Fly Fishing – Jackson County is proclaimed NC’s Trout Capital®, and Cashiers is a major part of the county’s famed WNC Fly Fishing Trail®.  The Tuckasegee or sometimes spelled Tuckaseigee River flow throughout the length of the county and provides ample opportunity for reeling in trout. Visitors are invited to bring their fishing gear and grab a trail map from the Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce to explore the abundantly stocked, pristine waters.
• The Village Green is a 13.2 acre park located in the heart of Cashiers, North Carolina, at the crossroads of Highway 64 and Highway 107. Hosting thousands of visitors and over 80 events each year, The Village Green is not only the heart of Cashiers in its location but also in its ability to draw family and friends together in the community. It is a special place where people and nature come together. Stroll the paths of the park around grassy lawns, along wetlands and through the forest glade. Enjoy a picnic lunch with friends. Learn about raptors, honeybees, native plants and bears. Celebrate the seasons and capture treasured moments with family. Discover art, culture and regional heritage. Host a party, wedding, or reunion. Photograph colorful dahlias. Listen to a concert. Dance beneath the stars.
• Gorges State Park located near Sapphire and Lake Toxaway is a 7,709-acre North Carolina state park with endless hiking trails and waterfalls.
• Cornucopia – Considered a local favorite, Cornucopia is consistently named as one of the best porches in Cashiers. A casual spot for lunch, dinner, or the popular Sunday brunch, Cornucopia, like the name suggests, features a variety of dishes tempting to any palate. Locals can’t get enough of the Arabian club, black bean burger, or their most famous and oldest dish, “Wade Hampton’s Downfall.” At dinner, try an entrée that incorporates local flair, like smoked trout from Sunburst Farms or Southern-Fried Farms Chicken. The building, which was originally purchased in 1892 for $27 has a long history of serving locals as a general store, school, post office, and tack shop. Cornucopia is open from March to November and will celebrate its 40th season in 2018.
• Sapphire Ski Resort is only about 5 minutes away from the Crossroads in Cashiers and offers skiing, frozen tubing, and more.
• Silver Run Falls – This easy hike is perfect for beginners or anyone in search of a photogenic waterfall!
• Whitewater Equestrian Center – Find fun for the whole family as you ride horseback through scenic trails in the Cashiers plateau.
• Whiteside Brewing Co – One of six breweries along the popular Jackson County Ale Trail, this Cashiers brewery offers seasonal brews as well as plenty of indoor and outdoor seating along with a large grassy field for the kids to play in.
• Zachary-Tolbert House – This historic house and museum, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers an untouched look at how pioneer settlers lived more than 150 years ago in Cashiers.
• Lake Glenville – With 26-miles of shoreline, seven islands and three gorgeous waterfalls, Lake Glenville is a getaway in itself. One of the highest-elevation lakes east of the Rocky Mountains, Lake Glenville is the largest lake in Jackson County and has earned a reputation as a bass fisherman’s delight. Perfect for boating and water-skiing, Lake Glenville also features a swimming area with a sand beach and trail to High Falls. The surrounding Glenville community includes historic churches and unique shops.

Ready to plan your trip to Cashiers?

Take a look at our  Trip Ideas to get inspiration for your next mountain getaway. Or check out some FAQs to get all your Jackson County questions answered.