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With wildflowers and waterfalls, farm-fresh meals and fly-fishing, the mountain towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro and Sylva show off during spring.
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Whiteside Mountain
Known by some geologists to be the oldest mountain in the world at 360 to 490 million years old, Whiteside Mountain with its variety of wildflowers — including false Solomon’s seal, dwarf dandelion and white snakeroot — is a hiker’s dream in spring. Grab the whole family for an easy 2-mile trek on a well-maintained and marked trail, navigating to some of the highest cliffs in the Eastern US.
Waterrock Knob
Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Waterrock Knob sports an iconic view from the top of its 6,292-foot summit — one of the highest on the Parkway. And though it’s a short hike, just 1.2 miles round-trip, it's a steep one. But the views at the top are worth it. Pro tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds or on a clear night for stunning views of the constellations.
Greening Up the Mountains
Held annually the last Saturday in April, Greening Up the Mountains is Sylva’s heritage arts festival that celebrates the arrival of spring with Appalachian art, music, food and more. Attracting close to 10,000 visitors, this festival offers a 5K race, kids’ events, music, arts and crafts, and more.
'The Tuck'
The Tuckasegee River in Jackson County is home to the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail. This officially recognized trail offers 15 prime fishing spots full of brook, brown and rainbow trout. If you’re looking for a bit more adventure, consider booking a guided rafting or tubing expedition — no gear or experience required!
Groovin' on the Green
Beginning in late May, this free concert series showcases great local artists on The Village Green Common’s Lawn in Cashiers. Enjoy the food and beverage vendors on-site or bring your own picnic, blanket or lawn chairs. Dogs are welcome, too! Easter on the Green, held on the same lush lawn as the concert series, is another fun-filled event for all ages. Bring your own basket for a huge Easter egg hunt and a special appearance from the Easter Bunny.
The Orchard
Located on an apple orchard in a 100-year-old farmhouse, The Orchard has been a Cashiers favorite since opening in 2000. With a commitment to using ingredients from local farmers, it serves farm-to-table dishes (the trout dinners are beloved) in a cozy, rustic setting. During warmer seasons, you can sit on the covered porch and take in the beautiful views of the apple trees.
Canyon Kitchen
Set in an open-air barn with massive oak beams, Lonesome Valley’s Canyon Kitchen offers a seasonally inspired prix fixe menu featuring ingredients and produce from its on-site garden. With dramatic, clear views of thousand-foot granite cliffs, it’s easy to see why Food & Wine selected it for its “Most Romantic Restaurant in Every State” list in 2022.
Airing of the Quilts
Every spring, the Appalachian Women’s Museum honors an old mountain tradition where women would take family quilts off the beds and hang them in the sunshine to freshen up for the season. During this event, you can walk the museum grounds and enjoy the vibrant display of quilts from quilters and quilt collectors, as well as a fabric, quilt pattern and book exchange.
Cashiers Farmers Market
Whether you’re looking for something specific like fresh local produce or canned jams or just want to pet the family’s golden retrievers that have their run of the store, don’t miss the Cashiers Farmers Market in the center of town. Once you’ve stocked up, make your way to the upscale boutiques to peruse everything from antiques to gifts to home decor.
Lake Glenville
With 26 miles of shoreline, picturesque islands and hidden waterfalls, Lake Glenville is a reason to visit Jackson County in itself. It’s the largest lake in the county and is perfect for boating, water skiing, swimming or simply lounging on the unique sand beach with its trail to High Falls, a popular waterfall in the area.
This article was produced in partnership with, and all photos are courtesy of, Jackson County TDA.