48 Hours in Haywood County
Haywood County is known for its mountains. In this corner of Western North Carolina, the peaks rise to 6,000 feet, making them some of the tallest summits in the Eastern U.S. But it’s not just about reaching great heights in Haywood County. The valleys between those peaks are full of crisp streams and bugling elk, making them just as enticing as their lofty neighbors. A handful of small towns are scattered throughout the county, offering guests all of the modern amenities they could want while also delivering quick access to an adventure highlight reel that includes Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the sinuous Blue Ridge Parkway.
Larry Deane
meet the local
Larry Deane and his wife Jenn love the mountains of Haywood County. The duo has spent more than 20 years exploring Western North Carolina’s peaks and valleys and are so passionate about the terrain in their backyard they decided to share their knowledge with the world through Blue Ridge Mountain Life, a digital guide to the trails, towns, waterfalls and adventures throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains.
“Haywood County is our home,” Larry Deane says. “The variety of activities you can find here in a relatively small area is incredible. We have peaceful river valleys and high-elevation balds, scenic drives and wildlife habitats. It all contributes something different to the outdoor experience here.”
Larry Dean: My Weekend of Adventure and Stewardship in Haywood County
day one
Morning Adventure
The ideal day would begin before sunrise in Cataloochee Valley. This broad valley is one of the most remote locations inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and is known for its historic buildings and abundant wildlife, especially elk. Dawn is one of the best times to experience the valley while it is still quiet and to watch the elk from a safe distance. I would also visit the valley’s historic buildings and walk a portion of the Rough Fork Trail, an easy 2-mile hike where you can see the historic Woody homesite, one of the most well-preserved homes in Cataloochee.
Remember that observing the elk from at least 50 yards helps keep you and the wildlife safe by not introducing undue stress to the animal. And being mindful of all field closures during elk calving and rutting season helps preserve the natural life cycles that these beautiful creatures experience.
Lunch
After leaving Cataloochee, stop and pick up lunch in Maggie Valley. Bear Waters Bistro has an interesting concept where four different kitchens operate under the same roof, so you can get burgers, Thai food, pizza or steaks at the same restaurant.
Afternoon adventure
Haywood County has a beautiful stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile two-lane highway that connects Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. Pick up the Parkway at Soco Gap and head north, taking your time and stopping at some of the overlooks along the way, like Waterrock Knob, where the overlook sits at 5,820 feet. It has a visitor center and a half-mile trail leading to an overlook where you can see several mountain ranges.
If you have the time, continue toward Black Balsam Knob for a high-elevation hike. A short trail leads to the summit of the 6,214-foot Black Balsam Knob, providing a relatively easy introduction to the open balds and long-range views found in this part of the mountains. More experienced hikers can continue farther into the surrounding trail system.
Remember that parking is limited at many popular trails on the Parkway. Parking only in designated spots and having an alternate destination in mind if a parking area is full is a great way to preserve the vegetation that surrounds these trailheads.
dinner
Drive into downtown Waynesville for dinner. This small mountain town has a vibrant culinary scene, so even picky eaters will find something they like. Frog Level Brewing is a staple, with great locally-crafted beers and a diverse menu with tacos, sandwiches and salads.
spend the night
The Waynesville Inn is a historic property that’s celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. It’s a beautiful building set in farmland that was converted to a golf course a century ago, and it’s just a few miles from downtown Waynesville.
day two
morning adventure
The Lake Junaluska Walking Trail is one of the best accessible outdoor experiences in Haywood County. The public trail is paved and mostly flat as it makes its way around the mountain lake. There’s a shorter 2.3-mile loop using the Turbeville Footbridge across the lake, and a longer 3.8-mile option around the lake, so you can pick your distance. And the views of the lake and surrounding mountains are gorgeous.
A variety of guests enjoy this trail, so this is a good opportunity for you to Share the Outdoors by practicing small considerations like keeping your noise level low and politely announcing your presence when you’re passing others. Responsible recreation is ultimately about remembering that these places belong to everyone.
afternoon adventure
There are so many waterfalls in Haywood County, but Sunburst Falls is one of the most accessible. Located directly beside NC 215 south of Canton in Pisgah National Forest, this beautiful waterfall flows beneath a historic stone arch bridge and can be viewed from the road. It’s a two-tiered waterfall, and you can see the upper falls from the road. If you want to stretch your legs, a short trail leads to the lower falls, but it’s steep and only suitable if you’re feeling adventurous.
Practicing waterfall safety is key at Sunburst and any falls you visit. Wet rocks are extremely slippery, and water levels can rise quickly after storms. Remember to stay on designated paths for your safety and to preserve the vegetation surrounding these beautiful cascades, and only enter the water below the falls.
bonus adventure
Experienced hikers should explore Shining Rock Wilderness in Pisgah National Forest, which features more than 18,000 acres of preserved forest with elevations that top 6,000 feet. You’ll find dense forests, mountain streams, high ridges and the distinctive white quartz outcropping for which Shining Rock is named. It offers a remote, true Wilderness experience, so hikers should Plan Ahead and Prepare by bringing proper gear, like a trail map and extra layers, and select a route that matches their experience. It is an incredible place, but it rewards preparation and respect, along with fantastic waterfalls, trails and views.
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