Top 10 Mountain Towns to Explore in North Carolina, According to Local Experts

Brevard

“Brevard sits in the midst of the ‘land of waterfalls’ and is renowned as the East Coast hub for mountain biking,” says Reinhold. “Trailheads are seamlessly integrated throughout the town, providing easy access to Pisgah National Forest, Dupont State Forest, and Gorges State Park.” While your visit should be filled with outdoor excitement, don’t forget to explore Brevard’s vibrant art community. If you're in town during the summer, try to catch an outdoor performance at Whittington-Pfohl Auditorium at Brevard Music Center; otherwise, wandering through the local art galleries and artisan shops is essential year-round.

Highlands

Recognized as T+L’s Best Small Mountain Town in 2023, Highlands offers everything needed for an idyllic escape. It boasts “the charm of a quaint mountain town combined with the luxury required for an unforgettable vacation,” says Tillung. She notes the area features “some of the finest trails in the world,” along with “exceptional food and culture found in the South.” Kick off your visit by checking into one of the top-rated accommodations: Old Edwards Inn & Spa, Half-Mile Farm, Highlander Mountain House, Skyline Lodge, or the newly opened Outpost Inn. After that, spend a few hours exploring Main Street, stopping by Mountain Fresh Grocery for a quick breakfast or lunch. Don’t miss the region’s stunning waterfalls and The Bascom, which features art exhibits, lectures, and various classes and workshops.

Cashiers

Located just 10 minutes from Highlands, Cashiers is a mountain town renowned for its breathtaking views, golfing, fly fishing, hiking, and antique shopping. It’s also home to High Hampton, a beloved luxury resort that was modernized in 2021. Guests at the resort might find it hard to leave the comfort of the Adirondack chairs and lawn beds, but they would miss out on exploring the charming town. The family-owned Cashiers Farmers Market is a perfect spot for a barbecue lunch, and unique finds await at Vivianne Metzger Antiques, The Village Hound, or Zoller Hardware Gift & Gadget Mercantile.

Waynesville

Reinhold describes Waynesville as the “crown jewel of mountain towns,” largely due to its prime location near Great Smoky Mountains National Park. For an adrenaline rush, he suggests “an unforgettable adventure” like forest bathing or overnight backpacking with The Appalachian Adventure Company. If you prefer to stay in town, explore the art galleries and antique shops along Main Street, followed by a refreshing beer at Boojum Brewing Company or a cup of coffee from Smoky Mountain Coffee Roasters. When night falls, indulge in luxury at The Swag, regarded as one of the best all-inclusive resorts in the South.

Boone

Boone offers much more than just Appalachian State University, although attending a Mountaineers game at Kidd Brewer Stadium is a highlight in this college town. Families with young kids can enjoy hours of fun at the renowned Tweetsie Railroad, featuring themed train rides and live performances, as well as Daniel Boone Park, home to the Hickory Ridge History Museum, which illustrates mountain life from the late 1700s and early 1800s. In the summer, cool off by floating down the New River with Wahoo’s Adventures or discover a swimming spot along Crab Orchard Falls Trail. For lodging in Boone, you have various options—from hotels to vacation rentals—but Rhode’s Motor Lodge, a boutique hotel that opened in fall 2023, is an excellent choice.

Sylva

Like many mountain towns in North Carolina, Sylva (population: 2,623) is celebrated for its breweries, art galleries, dining destinations, and access to hiking trails. “My favorite hike in the area is Pinnacle Park, which features North Carolina’s only certified forest therapy trail,” shares Reinhold. At the trailhead, you can pick up a brochure and embark on a soothing, self-guided nature walk. With a refreshed perspective on your surroundings, head over to Main Street, which he describes as “having an almost endless array of dining options, particularly Ilda, Meatballs Pizzeria, and the recently nominated James Beard restaurant Dalaya Thai.”

Hot Springs

“I think Hot Springs might just be the coolest town in Appalachia,” states Reinhold. “The Appalachian Trail runs directly through the town—using one of the sidewalks on Main Street—and its many thru-hikers have certainly made their presence felt in this small community.” To gear up for hiking, mountain biking, rafting, or even llama trekking in the region, stop by Bluff Mountain Outfitters for any supplies you may need. After a day of adventure, recharge with pizza from Vinyl Pies, delightful treats from Artisun, or enjoy a taco and a beer at Grey Eagle Taqueria and Big Pillow Brewery. True to its name, Hot Springs is famous for its geothermal waters, where visitors can unwind at either Broadwing Farm or Hot Springs Resort & Spa during their stay.

Bryson City

Bryson City, North Carolina, proudly holds the title of “Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Great Smoky Mountains.” Though small—with a population of around 1,500—this town exudes mountain charm. To kick off your visit to Bryson City, secure a room at either the Fryemont Inn or The Everett Hotel, and start crafting your ideal itinerary. If you're traveling in the summer, don’t miss hiking in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, taking a scenic ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, and enjoying a day on the water, whether it’s white-water rafting on the Nantahala River or paddleboarding on Fontana Lake.

Banner Elk

According to Tillung, a trip to Banner Elk reveals a blend of “small mountain town life with big luxury aspirations,” complemented by a “growing culinary scene, excellent golf courses,” and various opportunities to “reconnect with nature.” In winter, Banner Elk attracts many visitors, nestled between two major ski resorts: Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain. Throughout the year, travelers can enjoy the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster, relax at The Lodge at River Run, or stroll along the town’s Greenway Trail System. Dining choices include Artisanal, Stonewalls Restaurant, and Banner Elk Cafe & Lodge—just remember to check each restaurant's website for seasonal hours.

Little Switzerland

Few mountain towns in North Carolina are as distinctive as Little Switzerland, a seasonally open, Swiss-inspired gem located on the Blue Ridge Parkway. For the complete Little Switzerland experience, plan your visit between mid-April and early October. Highlights include a stay at the historic Switzerland Inn, a trip to the North Carolina Mining Museum, a stop at Little Switzerland Books and Beans, and an evening of live music and dancing at Geneva Hall. Don’t forget to take a moment, either at sunrise or sunset, to soak in the breathtaking views from the town's elevation of nearly 3,500 feet.