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Blowing Rock in North Carolina

9 Most Beautiful Mountain Towns in North Carolina (2024)

No matter how appealing the city life is, it can’t overpower the charm of life in Mountain towns. And when in North Carolina, one can live this charm to the fullest. The State of North Carolina is blessed with endless mountain ranges and several mountain towns. With the Blue Ridge Mountains stretching close by and the Smoky Mountains in proximity, North Carolina has no shortage of mountain fun. Mostly the western part of the state is blessed with scenic mountain vistas and charm that ooze out from every nook and corner.

The landscape of Western North Carolina is simply breathtaking, and there are thousands of peaks in the region. Being here, one can indulge in outdoor adventure, local culture, and tasty local food. And guess what? Above all what the North Carolina Mountain towns offer, the best part about being here is enjoying the pleasantly cool weather. Even during the summer season, the cool mountain breeze makes the sunshine feel pleasant and cozy. Want to experience it first hand? Then head to these Best Mountain Towns in North Carolina. Have a look:

9 Most Beautiful Mountain Towns in North Carolina

  1. Blowing Rock

Blowing Rock is an upscale mountain town with a mix of modern and historic vibes. This quaint mountain town sits on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway and is ideal for a laid-back weekend. Blowing Rock in North Carolina is popular for its fantastic panoramic views that overlook endless forested mountains and the Johns River Gorge. Several historic buildings and modern structures throughout the town keep its village atmosphere intact. Summer days in Blowing Rock are all about sitting in the outdoor patio seats under huge leafy trees and trying mouthwatering local food. Offering true blissful green, summers are the true treasure of Blowing Rock. Visitors can step out for hiking, seek a waterfall or attend one of the endless annual festivals going around the town. Despite its small size, Blowing Rock holds a lot for visitors and therefore is a must-visit mountain town in North Carolina.

  1. Banner Elk

Banner Elk is a popular winter destination and one of the most beautiful mountain towns in North Carolina. It is within 15 minutes distance of Sugar Mountain Ski Resort and Beech Mountain Ski Resort, the two popular skiing destinations in North Carolina. Banner Elk is home to nearly 1000 residents through its appealing village atmosphere and other attractions that draw numerous visitors every single year. Just outside the town is Grandfather Mountain, and its sky-swinging bridge, which is North Carolina’s best spot, can’t be missed. The popular Linville Falls and the Blue Ridge Parkway too are about half an hour away, a must-check out for spectacular scenery. Banner Elk also boasts a nice selection of quality restaurants, fine dining, and eateries with spectacular scenery. So, whether you want to relax or indulge in some adventure, Banner Elk makes up for them both.

Beautiful Mountain Towns in North Carolina - Banner Elk

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  1. Hendersonville

A lovely small mountain town in North Carolina, Hendersonville is one of the best-known destinations to visit in the state. Hendersonville is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountain and is also known as the Apple Capital of North Carolina. The town host several U-pick apple farms and the four-day official North Carolina Apple Festival that individuals come in craving for. It is also known for its vineyards, and Burntshirt Vineyards and Saint Paul Mountain Farms are some of the must-check amongst the lot. Hendersonville also boasts a postcard-like downtown with a vibrant arts community, a good selection of restaurants, and grand historic homes. Hendersonville’s settlement on Blue Ridge Mountain also boasts several hiking, biking, and waterfall-seeking opportunities nearby. The town is pedestrian-friendly and is simply too nice to visit for an extended stay.

  1. Asheville

Asheville is a mountain city known for its Blue Ridge Mountains, Vibrant Beer Culture, and Biltmore Estate. The vibrant arts scene and historic architecture of Asheville draw individuals from all across the west. The scenic mountainous backdrop gives Asheville another level of gorgeousness even though it’s a huge city. It has been attracting tourists from different regions, including natural beauty, elaborate interiors and exteriors, many art galleries, and a vibrant day + nightlife. Ashville in North Carolina is filled with a variety of restaurants from different nationalities across the world. Culinary scenes here are undoubtedly top-notch and worth visiting. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Asheville include the Asheville Museum of ttt, Pinball Museum, River Arts District, and Western North Carolina Nature Center. Visitors who are up for some spookiness can also join the Asheville Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour.

 

  1. Highlands

Highlands is a beautiful tree-lined mountain town in North Carolina. Highlands is just 2 hours from Atlanta, 1.5 hours from Asheville, and 3 hours from Charlotte, which also makes it a popular weekend getaway in North Carolina. Being in proximity to South Carolina, it is also a go-to spot for neighbors. Highlands is popular for its exceptional downtown, a great cultural arts scene, exquisite restaurants, and fabulous shopping opportunities. Downtown Highlands has a postcard-worthy appeal, and no visitor can stop from taking the beauty back in the form of pictures and videos. In addition, 10 minutes from the town lies the spectacular Dry Falls, a curtain of water pouring off an overhanging ledge. Visitors can walk behind the picturesque water pouring down off an overhanging ledge. When in Highlands, do not dare to miss the Friday night concerts in the square.

  1. Burnsville

Burnsville is a beautiful mountain community offering an authentic small-town experience. It boasts a thriving downtown area that is full of shops, restaurants, and galleries lining the streets. Downtown Burnsville also serves as a hot spot for community events, including Art walks, Festivals, and Regular engaging markets. The town of Burnsville is set up on the foothills of Mount Mitchell, which also opens a lot of hiking opportunities for visitors. Crabtree Falls, Roaring Fork Falls, Setrock Creek Falls, and Linville Falls are some splendid Pisgah waterfalls located nearby. Anglers who are keen on trout fishing can head towards Toe River and bring out their skills.

  1. Sylva

The quaint town of Sylva is located in the far western part of North Carolina. Known for being clean, green, and distinctive, a visit to Sylva would never disappoint you. It is where the Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, was filmed. In addition, Sylva is home to the Jackson County Courthouse. It isn’t just an architectural wonder but also boasts panoramic views over the downtown and surrounding countryside. Besides that, downtown Sylva offers a mix of restaurants, retail shops, and endless book stores. Fridays here are all about free summer musical events or concerts at the Creek at the Bridge Park. Another major reason to visit Sylva is its fly fishing opportunities. The town boasts Tuckasegee River, 1400-acre Pinnacle Park wilderness, and is also a part of the WNC Fly Fishing Trail.

  1. Brevard

Another best mountain town in North Carolina, Brevard, is at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. What makes Brevard special is its proximity to some spectacular Carolina waterfalls. The town makes an excellent base for waterfall seeking and mountain sightseeing. Residents of Asheville and Hendersonville choose it as their quick go-to day trip destination. Brevard has a pretty Main Street that is adorned with fun shops, unique restaurants, a weekly farmer’s market, and a throwback cinema. Downtown Brevard is an antique lovers’ dream, and one can find a variety of antique shops, second-hand stores, and seasonal flea markets. The town is also popular for the Cradle of Forestry, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

TIP: Dillsboro is another must-visit mountain town near Brevard that one can add to their North Carolina itinerary.

  1. Waynesville

Waynesville is a pretty special addition to the list of most beautiful mountain towns in North Carolina. Considered an attractive option, it is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Waynesville’s main street is adorned with covered sidewalks and is meant for exploring on foot. Visitors can find shops and restaurants, of which a few boast outdoor patio seating as well. Every year over 10 days in July, Waynesville host Folkmoot International Dance & Music Festival. This major annual event is the biggest draw to the town attracting over a lakh of visitors. Waynesville is also a hub for outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and fishing.

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