Western North Carolina offers a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor activities, as well as cultural and historical attractions. Here are some things you can do in the region.
Must visit nearby
Cataloochee Ranch is a must visit, and it is only a few minutes from the cabin. It is a newly remodeled old ranch with an amazing new restaurant featuring locally source food and plenty of activities, including horse-back riding, archery, hiking, fishing, zip lining and more.
Cities to visit
Waynesville is a charming little mountain town. You can walk downtown (Main Street), and visit one of the many shops and restaurants.
Famous mountain town nearby with plenty of restaurants and activities.
Discover Asheville’s vibrant culture with a visit to the iconic Biltmore Estate, or wander through downtown’s eclectic shops and galleries. Immerse yourself in nature along the Blue Ridge Parkway’s scenic drives and hiking trails. Indulge in Asheville’s renowned culinary scene, featuring farm-to-table restaurants and craft breweries. Don’t miss live music at local venues, showcasing everything from bluegrass to indie rock. Whether you’re drawn to art, adventure, or gastronomy, Asheville offers endless possibilities for exploration and enjoyment. Start planning your unforgettable Asheville experience today.
Experience the charm of Gatlinburg, TN, nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Explore the breathtaking beauty of the national park with scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife encounters. Discover family fun at attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and Ober Gatlinburg’s ski slopes and amusement park. Stroll through the vibrant downtown area, filled with unique shops, distilleries, and local eateries. Don’t miss out on the stunning views from the Gatlinburg SkyBridge or the thrill of the Gatlinburg Space Needle. From outdoor adventures to cultural delights, Gatlinburg offers something for every traveler. Plan your visit today!
Nearby Restaurants We Recommend
Cataloochee Ranch features an amazing high-end, yet affordable restaurant in a renovated old barn with picturesque surroundings at 4,800ft elevation. Chef prepares local foods
- Gigi’s: very good small casual place good for sandwiches and burgers
- Haywood smokehouse (Waynesville, best BBQ in town, must try their brisket)
- Watami, very good Japanese restaurant (Waynesville, Main St)
- Sweet Onion (Waynesville, Main St)
- The Scotsman Public House: great Scottish pub with good food and live music, upen until late.
- Fire Fly (Waynesville, Main St, great for brunch)
- Chef’s Table (Waynesville, Main St): nice high-end restaurant off Main Street
- Sauced (Waynesville, Main St)
- Clyde’s restaurant (Waynesville). Very popular, low-cost and casual
- Willie Brooks BBQ (Maggie Valley, 15 min. Good BBQ nd brunch).
Hiking Trails
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in Cataloochee Valley, where nature’s beauty awaits. Explore a network of hiking trails amidst the picturesque backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains. Trek through lush forests and meadows, encountering diverse wildlife and historic sites along the way. Capture stunning views of rolling hills and pristine streams as you immerse yourself in this tranquil wilderness. With trails suitable for all skill levels, Cataloochee Valley offers the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Start your journey today and discover the wonders of this hidden gem in the heart of North Carolina.
Black Balsam Knob, part of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers stunning panoramic views and alpine-like landscapes. This iconic destination in North Carolina boasts a network of hiking trails, including the Art Loeb Trail, and is renowned for its wildflowers and autumn foliage. The summit, accessible by a short walk from the parking area, provides breathtaking vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. A popular spot for sunset photography and stargazing, Black Balsam Knob is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a memorable experience in the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
Looking Glass Falls is a majestic 60-foot waterfall located near Brevard, North Carolina. Easily accessible from the roadside, this iconic cascade plunges into a tranquil pool, offering a scenic backdrop for visitors and photographers alike. Surrounded by lush forest, the falls are a popular stop along the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway. Enjoy swimming in the pool beneath the falls or simply soak in the natural beauty of this picturesque spot. Open year-round, Looking Glass Falls is a must-see attraction in the Pisgah National Forest.
John Rock, near Pisgah National Forest, is a striking granite outcrop offering sweeping vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This prominent landmark is accessed via a moderate hike through lush forests and meadows, featuring rhododendrons in spring and vibrant foliage in fall. The summit rewards adventurers with panoramic views of Looking Glass Rock and the surrounding wilderness. A favorite for day hikes and rock climbing, John Rock is ideal for nature lovers and photographers seeking dramatic landscapes and outdoor recreation in Western North Carolina.
Grandfather Mountain, a landmark in the Blue Ridge Mountains, features rugged terrain, stunning vistas, and diverse wildlife. The mountain offers hiking trails ranging from moderate to challenging, including the famous Profile Trail and Daniel Boone Scout Trail. Experience the Mile High Swinging Bridge, spanning a chasm 5,280 feet above sea level, for breathtaking panoramic views. Encounter wildlife like black bears and otters at the nature preserve. Grandfather Mountain is a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering unforgettable adventures and natural beauty in North Carolina’s High Country.
