Trail Towns: Sylva, Cullowhee, Cashiers, Dillsboro
Ideally located near Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway, Jackson County is home to the charming mountain towns of Cashiers, Cherokee, Dillsboro, Sylva, Balsam, Cullowhee, Glenville and Sapphire. In Jackson County, you’ll experience More Peak Moments, the kind that rise above the ordinary and linger long after you leave. Whether you’re casting a line on the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail, gazing at Whitewater Falls, the highest series of waterfalls east of the Mississippi River, hiking one of the 185 named mountain summits, soaking in the beauty of NC’s only Certified Forest Therapy trail or watching an elk emerge from the morning mist, the moments will leave you in pure awe. From authentic Native American and Appalachian culture to celebrated farm-to-table cuisine, Jackson County is where you’ll create More Peak Moments – the kind that matter most.
in the Sylva Area
Jackson County offers a diverse range of trail-focused experiences, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway with its long range mountain vistas and challenging hikes. For a more leisurely experience, stroll along the Tuckasegee River Greenway, ideal for families and casual walkers. Adventurous hikers can tackle the rugged terrains of Panthertown Valley, often referred to as the “Yosemite of the East.” Mountain bikers will find thrilling trails at the Western Carolina University Trail System. Whether you’re seeking a serene nature walk or an adrenaline pumping adventure, Jackson County’s trails provide something for people of all abilities.
Hiking
Mountain Biking
Road Cycling
Paved Greenway
Paddling
Horseback Riding
Fishing
Driving Tour
Waterfall
Important note: Accessible trails' activities are highlighted in blue!
Trail name
Trail town
Activities
WNC Fly Fishing Trail®
Dillsboro, Sylva
Pinnacle Park
Sylva
Panthertown Valley Trail System
Cashiers, Sapphire
Waterrock Knob Trail
Calsam, Sylva
Whitewater Falls
Cashiers
Tuckasegee River Greenway
Cullowhee, Sylva
WCU Mountain Bike Trails
Cullowhee
At Outdoor NC, we are dedicated to promoting accessibility for all visitors, regardless of their abilities. We strive to improve the accessibility of our offerings and share this information through our various platforms, including our Trail Town Guide. We collaborate with state, regional, local and private-sector partners to make North Carolina’s destinations and outdoor spaces easier to access.
In this guide "Accessible" means
- This guide includes accessible, easy, moderate and difficult trails which may be suitable for, or exceed, anyone’s ability. Plan Ahead and Be Prepared.
- For this guide, trails which are marked as “accessible” are ADA compliant (firm, stable surface that is at least 36 inches wide). This includes paved greenways, hard pack pathways and boardwalks. It does not mean that these trails are without obstacles.
- Beyond ADA compliant trails, this guide lists many opportunities that are suitable for visitors of all abilities which include walking tours and driving trails. Additionally, check with local land managers for information on adaptive mountain bike access for mountain biking and road cycling trails.
- We encourage all visitors to utilize the provided trail websites and other local resources to become familiar with trail descriptions, site facilities and potential obstacles, so you know what to expect and can make the best determination for your skill and abilities.
Travel Resources for a Trip to North Carolina
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