Five towns — plus outdoor pursuits, artistic endeavors, and delicious provisions and libations — to explore on your next trip west.
haywood county
Maggie Valley’s Outdoor Adventures
See wild vistas and waterfalls, come face to face with wildlife, hit the slopes, and grab a bite in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Summer Getaways at Lake Junaluska
Stroll through the gardens and walk the lakeside trails, make a splash, and roast marshmallows over the fire: This summer retreat in the Blue Ridge Mountains has all of the makings of a perfect family vacation.
A Blue Ridge Mountains Vacation Spot Where You Can Visit the Bison
Those in search of Western-style adventures don’t have to look far: On a family ranch in Haywood County, guests can watch bison roam the mountainside from cozy log cabins and converted train cabooses.
The Land of Rainbow Trout
Farmed in the clear waters of Haywood County — and sublime when smoked — these mountain beauties are a favorite of the best chefs across the Southeast.
Where Lumber Ruled, Nature Reigns on Lake Logan
On a remote lake in Haywood County, just beyond earshot of Canton’s paper-mill whistle, a forgotten getaway for timber barons tells a story of commerce, conservation, and the true value of trees.
Natural Haven
Inside the spiritual retreat of Lake Junaluska, Appalachia’s most threatened plant species find a place of refuge.
A Town of Champions
A paper mill and its workers helped build the town of Canton and paved the way for innovation.
Waynesville
Halfbacks and high hills, arts and frogs, elk and Plotts — and how it all blends together in one of the most intriguing places in North Carolina.
