WNC NATIONAL & STATE PARKS

Welcome to our curated guide to the natural wonders of Western North Carolina. Discover the breathtaking beauty of the region's national and state parks, from the serene landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains to the adventurous trails of Pisgah National Forest. Explore the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, a drive that promises awe-inspiring vistas at every turn. Traverse historic trails that weave through lush forests and uncover the rich history of the Appalachian region. To complement your outdoor adventures, we highlight unique lodging experiences, offering cozy cabins, charming inns, and one-of-a-kind retreats nestled in the heart of the mountains. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Western North Carolina has something extraordinary to offer everyone.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is renowned for its biodiversity, mist-covered peaks, and rich cultural history. Established in 1934, it encompasses over 500,000 acres of lush forests, roaring streams, and a variety of wildlife. Visitors can explore scenic drives, over 800 miles of hiking trails, and historic sites that reflect the area's Appalachian heritage. The park's name derives from the natural fog that often hovers over the mountains, creating a mystical and enchanting atmosphere.

Bryson City boasts five gateways into the North Carolina side of park: Deep Creek, Oconaluftee at Cherokee, Fontana Dam, the North Shore and the infamous Road to Nowhere. Once you are in the park, we highly recommend visiting one of the destinations on the list of “The Best Photography Spots in the Great Smoky Mountains for Sunrise & Sunset”!

Nantahala National Forest

Nantahala National Forest, nestled in the southern Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Spanning over 530,000 acres, this is the largest national forest in North Carolina and offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its pristine rivers, dense forests, and majestic peaks. The forest is a paradise for hiking, fishing, and whitewater rafting, attracting visitors year-round to explore its scenic trails and experience the tranquility of its untouched wilderness. Here are just a few points of interest in this treasured forest: Whiteside Mountain, Wayah Bald and Wesser Bald, Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest with its 400-year old trees, Whitewater Falls with the highest falls east of the Mississippi, Nantahala River Gorge and Panthertown Valley.

Pisgah National Forest

Pisgah National Forest encompasses over 510,000 acres and offers outdoor enthusiasts a paradise for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and camping, featuring iconic landmarks like Looking Glass Rock and the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. It also holds historical significance as one of the first national forests established in the eastern United States. Pisgah National Forest beckons visitors with its tranquil landscapes and abundant recreational opportunities, making it a cherished destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Points of interest include: Frying Pan Mountain, Catawba Falls, Crabtree Falls, the Linville Gorge Wilderness, Historic Orchard at Altapass, Little Switzerland, and Linville Falls.

Pisgah View State Park

Pisgah View State Park is new park scheduled to open to the public in 2025. Resting at the base of Mount Pisgah, the 1,600 acre universally accessible master planned park spans Buncombe and Haywood counties. The park is designed with the intent of providing a place for people to connect with nature through Conservation, Education and Recreation. Trails, day-use activities, overnight camping, and guided educational programs are all included in the vision. Click here to view a map of the area and stay tuned for updates on this exciting new park!

Gorges State Park

Gorges State Park, located in Transylvania County, is a stunning natural sanctuary known for its rugged terrain and breathtaking waterfalls. Spanning over 7,500 acres, the park boasts a diverse range of ecosystems, from lush forests to rocky gorges. Visitors can explore numerous trails that wind through the park, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. Notable features include Rainbow Falls, Turtleback Falls, and Bearwallow Falls, each offering picturesque views and a refreshing escape into nature. Gorges State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility amidst the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Chimney Rock State Park

Chimney Rock State Park is known for its iconic 315-foot granite monolith, Chimney Rock. Visitors to the park can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure from the top of the rock. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and bird watching, with trails leading through diverse ecosystems and past beautiful waterfalls like Hickory Nut Falls. Its rich natural beauty and recreational opportunities make Chimney Rock State Park a cherished destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Mount Mitchell State Park

Mount Mitchell State Park is home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. Established in 1915, it covers over 4,789 acres of pristine wilderness within the Black Mountain range. The park offers visitors stunning panoramic views, diverse flora and fauna, and a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, bird watching, and camping. Its centerpiece, Mount Mitchell, stands at 6,684 feet, providing a cool, refreshing escape and a unique ecosystem that's distinct from the surrounding lower elevations.

NATIONAL PARKWAYS & TRAILS

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway, often called "America's Favorite Drive," is a scenic highway that stretches for 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. Renowned for its breathtaking views, the parkway offers visitors a chance to explore historic sites, hike along picturesque trails, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Download the Blue Ridge Pkwy Travel Planner mobile app to guide and enrich your drive on this beautiful parkway!

Appalachian Trail | National Scenic Trail

The Appalachian Trail, a renowned long-distance hiking path stretching over 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine, cuts through the Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests and along the highest ridges of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This section offers hikers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. Notable points along the trail in this region include the scenic Max Patch, a grassy bald offering panoramic vistas, the challenging climb up to the summit of Mount Mitchell, and views from Clingman’s Dome – one of the highest peaks on the trail. The trail's presence in Western North Carolina provides both a challenging adventure and a deep immersion into the natural beauty of the Appalachian landscape.

Trail of Tears | National Historic Trail

The Trails of Tears National Historic Trail in Western North Carolina commemorates the forced relocation of Native American tribes, particularly the Cherokee, during the 1830s. This tragic journey, known as the Trail of Tears, resulted in the displacement and suffering of thousands as they were driven from their ancestral lands to Indian Territory in present-day Oklahoma. The trail's Western North Carolina segment highlights key sites and events in this painful chapter of American history, serving as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the Cherokee people and their enduring cultural heritage.

UNIQUE RETREATS & LODGING

Iron Horse Motorcycle Lodge

Iron Horse Motorcycle Lodge, located in North Carolina's Smoky Mountains, is a top destination for motorcycle enthusiasts. Close to the famous Tail of the Dragon, the lodge offers various accommodations including private rooms, cabins, and camping sites. Designed for motorcyclists, it features secure bike parking, wash stations, and tool access. Known for its friendly atmosphere, the lodge provides hearty meals and evening campfires for guests to relax and share stories. They also offer guided tours and route planning assistance, making it an ideal base for exploring the scenic mountain roads.

Gorgeous Stays

Calling all glampers! If you are looking for a totally unique experience and an alternative to tent camping, you must check out Gorgeous Stays in Bryson City. They offer everything from themed Tiny Houses and yurts to The Crown Jewel double-decker bus. You have to see these amazing accommodations to believe them! The glamping campground is located just 2 miles away from four rafting companies, two zipline areas and a ropes Adventure Park. You can also enjoy easy access to the Appalachian Trail, Little Tennessee River, Fontana Lake and Nantahala River. We highly recommend Gorgeous Stays as a basecamp for your next round of adventures in Western North Carolina!

Magical Mountain Resorts

Magical Mountain Resorts, located 10 miles outside Hayesville, NC, offers enchanting fairytalethemed cabin stays within The Enchanted Forest Campground. Nestled in the Tusquitee Ranger District of the Nantahala National Forest, this 11-acre campground provides a whimsical escape with themed accommodations such as Alice’s White Bunny Cottage, Snow White’s Cottage, and gingerbread house-themed cabins. The resort features unique stays like double-decker buses and antique school buses, making it a magical retreat for families and adventure seekers.