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Water, water everywhere The tallest
waterfall in the east, Whitewater Falls, is located about 10 miles south of Cashiers along one of
the most scenic drives in the region. There are hiking trails to the top and bottom of the falls.
Waterfalls are plentiful in Jackson County and make a beautiful place to relax and refresh oneself.
Jackson County's lakes offer family recreation. Swimming, boating, fishing, and picnicking are
popular activities at Bear, Cedar Cliff, Glenville, and Wolf lakes. And
for those looking
for a thrill, whitewater adventure can be found on several Western North Carolina rivers.
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Celebrating our culture Jackson County embraces
its Appalachian roots. Local festivals celebrate the Scots-Irish history and Cherokee history that
shaped our modern culture.  The Greening Up the Mountains Festival, held in April in downtown Sylva,
encourages environmental awareness while featuring traditional music, homemade goods and local crafts.
The annual Mountain Heritage Day held in September on the campus of Western Carolina University
offers a sampling of everything from cornhusk dolls to frybread, homegrown apples to Indian stickball
demonstrations, ballad singing to blacksmithing. Year round there are plenty of ways to learn more
about the area through local classes, interactive experiences and historical museums. |
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Food and drink Local chefs are mixing culinary influences with
foods native to the area. Be it blackberry wine, stone ground grits, sweet potato fries or seasoned
collard greens, you're sure to get a taste of Western North Carolina while you're here.
Many restaurants put an emphasis on organic and sustainable agriculture, bring seasonal
items to their menus. Also, with North Carolina's growing wine industry, you'll find some
of the state's finest wines available on local wine lists and in stores. Brew aficionados
will want to visit the brewery in Sylva for German style beers and homemade root beer – so
good it's the key ingredient to the Biltmore Estates' signature root beer float. |
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Arts and culture The relative isolation of mountain
life helped the settlers nourish  and preserve many traditions, especially music and handmade
crafts. The area has become the center of handmade art and crafts in American, with a rich
legacy of both traditional and contemporary craft schools and more than 4,000 working
craftspeople. In Jackson County you'll find traditional crafters as well as those
working on taking traditional mediums in new directions – be it mountain music, pottery or dance. |
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Hook and a line
Of all the waterways in the Smoky Mountain
region, perhaps none is enjoyed by trout fishermen as much as Jackson County's Tuckasegee River.
The Tuck is brimming with fishing holes and incredible scenery. The Oconaluftee River also is
great for anglers, and the numerous smaller creeks that flow into these larger rivers make
for some great back-country fishing excursions. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians also
runs its own trout hatchery, stocking some 30 miles of stream. Cherokee also has three well
stocked ponds; a one day license is available. Call 800-962-1911 for a free Jackson County
Fly Fishing brochure. |
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Bedding down with nature
For those wanting to spend some
time up close and personal with nature, Jackson County has excellent RV and tent camping. You
can build your campfire in one place and explore the region or make a journey of it. There
are national forest lands, private campgrounds, back-country sites and outdoor resorts that
will make a great home away from home. Some of the best family memories are made catching
fireflies, roasting marshmallows and sleeping under the stars. |
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Distinctive downtowns with great shopping
Sylva is a great
place to spend the day. You can do some shopping, grab a bite to eat, and visit the historic
buildings, such as the Jackson County Courthouse that overlooks Main Street.  In nearby Dillsboro,
families can book fare on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad for an excursion, visit one of the
many craft stores or get a root beer float at Bradley's General Store. If you're looking for
jewelry featuring native gemstones, some new boots to hit the hiking trails, or a souvenir to
take back home for the kids, it's all here in Jackson County. And Cashiers is a fine spot
to stretch your legs as you visit the beautifully landscaped Village Green and several shops
within walking distance. |
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Blue Ridge National Heritage Area
The Blue Ridge Mountains
of North Carolina are among the oldest mountains on earth.  The 25 county region that comprises
the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area is steeped in historical and cultural traditions that make
it truly unique. Explore this region using the BRNHA's special Go Blue Ridge cards, which includes
admission to 25 of the best attractions, tours and outdoor activities around. For more information, call 828-298-5330 or visit www.blueridgeheritage.com |
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