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Waterfalls! Waterfalls! Waterfalls! Any Western NC Getaway to Highlands NC includes some wonderful outdoor activities including easily accessible waterfalls. Here’s your comprehensive guide to the best things to the best things to do in Highlands NC.
At an elevation of over 4,000 feet, the summer temperature makes it a popular summer destination for those looking to escape the oppressive summer heat. It is a perfect destination for leaf-peeping in the fall. And in the winter you can enjoy winter hikes and frozen waterfalls. There are so many things to do in Highlands, NC! Read on to find out more.
How Highlands came to be founded is clever. Two developers in Kansas drew two lines on a map — New York to New Orleans and Chicago to Savannah. The point where they intersected would become commercially valuable and, in 1875, founded Highlands NC on that spot.
While Highlands may never have become the commercial hub they predicted, visitors from Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and others have long known that Highlands is the perfect Western NC destination.
Things to do in Highlands NC
Chase Waterfalls
US Highway 64/28 West has some of the most easily accessible waterfalls in North Carolina, including some visible right from the road! Here are some sure to become your favorites and those that involve less than .3 mile walking each way. Driving them in order out of town, they would be viewed in the following order:
Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil is the only waterfall in North Carolina you can drive behind in your car. The road behind the falls has been closed for a while due to safety concerns, but you can still park your car and see the falls from the comfort of your vehicle. Of course, you may want to get out of the car and see it up close. About 2.7 miles from Highlands along 64W towards Franklin.
Dry Falls
Located on Hwy 64, this one is one not to be missed. This 75-ft tall waterfall is located roadside along US Highway 64. There is a large parking area. One of the best features is the ability to walk behind it. One of the best features is the ability to walk behind it. About 3.6 miles from Highlands along 64W towards Franklin.
Bust Your Butt (Quarry) Falls
Located on Hwy 64, this one is not as easy to access or see from the road. You’ll need to pull over and park along the highway, cross over and climb over the rail. In the summer, this spot is popular as kids can play in it. It might be best to stop at these falls on your way back since they’re found on the opposite side of the road. About 6.8 miles from Highlands along 64W towards Franklin.
Cullasaja Falls
This 200-ft tall fall can be seen right off the highway, but you’ll want to pull over and get an up-close look. This one is located on the other side of the road, so it might be best to find a turning point and see it as you’re driving back towards Highlands. About 9.1 miles from Highlands along 64W towards Franklin.
Also, consider visiting the waterfalls in and the nearby town of Cashiers, NC.
Watch the Sunset from Sunset Rock on Whiteside Mountain
Take Main Street to the Nature Center – about ½ mile east of town. Walk approximately ½ mile to the top to sit on granite slabs at the top known as Sunset Rock. You can see the paths of the Highlands Botanical Gardens nearby, though they close at sunset. It is the perfect spot to pass the evening on a clear day.
PRO TIP: Spend the late afternoon at the Highlands Botanical Gardens, including enjoying a picnic there before wandering up the trails to watch the sunset from Sunset Rock for a magical afternoon.
Shop Along Main Street
Fans of walkable downtowns, and incredibly cute Main Streets, will delight in exploring Highland’s Main Street. Find unique gourmet condiments from Appalachian Harvest. Bear Mountain Outfitters provides clothing for the entire family. The Southern Way features American-made clothing and accessories, mostly made in the Southeast. Stroll along and window shop galleries and eateries as well.
Enjoy so much in the Nantahala National Forest
Fans of communing with nature will be happy to be surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest. Whether you choose to hike, see waterfalls, enjoy camping, ride horses or mountain bike along trails, fish, or view nature view, you can see and do so much in Nantahala National Forest from Highlands.
Highlands Biological Station, Nature Center, and Botanical Gardens
265 N. 6th Street, Highlands
Open from sunrise to sunset; the free botanical gardens can be accessed by following the Nature Center’s gravel road. The Gardens will be to the left. They feature over 500 species of wildflowers and plants native to the southern Appalachians. Enjoy the trails, workshops, or pack some food to eat a picnic by the lake!
The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts
323 Franklin Rd, Highlands
No matter your preferred medium, The Bascom is sure to offer some for every taste. Ceramics are where they excel. The Dave Drake Studio Barn provides classes for adults and children to harness creativity and talent. Free guided tours can be scheduled in advance.
Watch the Shadow of the Bear
Five miles east of town along US Highway 64, visitors will find the Rhodes Big View Overlook. If you time your visit to Highlands, NC correctly (from mid-October through early November and mid-February to early March), you’ll be rewarded with a fabulous phenomenon. On sunny days, between 5:30-6:15 pm, the mountain’s shadow as the sun sets creates what looks like a bear.
HOT TIP: This is most popular in October during leaf-peeping season. If you can return in late February or during the week to avoid the crowds.
Golf
If you’ve been dreaming of golfing at 4,000 ft with beautiful mountain views all around, then Highlands’ many private golf courses will fulfill your wildest fantasies.
Where to Eat in Highlands NC
The Wine Garden at Old Edwards Spa and Inn – When the weather is nice (or just right under the outdoor heaters), sit in the beautiful wine garden and enjoy a quick bite with a southern flair. Try the shrimp and grits!
Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro – A little taste of New Orleans cuisine in the heart of Western North Carolina! Fans of wine won’t get bored with over 700 to choose from.
The Ugly Dog Public House – The spot for pub fare. If you bring a photo of your puppy, they’ll even put it up on their wall!
Booking.comWhere to Stay in Highlands NC
Old Edwards Spa and Inn – If you’re looking for luxury in the Western NC mountains, then Old Edwards Spa and Inn is the place for you! Enjoy world-class cuisine. Pamper yourself in their European spa. Or enjoy a round of golf on the Tom Jackson-designed course. Old Edwards’ romantic setting makes the perfect setting for your Western NC getaway.
200 Main Street – If you’re looking for a more rustic setting, consider Old Edwards’ sister property, 200 Main Street. Popular with families, 200 Main Street offers its guests access to some of the same amenities. While the cozy rooms make it tempting to stay in, don’t miss out on exploring the rest of the area!
Highlands NC Getaway Thoughts
Like so many of the cute towns on my Western NC getaway, Highlands NC blew me away. Between the natural beauty surrounding Highlands and the attractive, walkable downtown area, Highlands makes for a great getaway. Its location near the South Carolina and Georgia border makes it easily accessible for visitors from our neighbor states. Don’t miss this elevated (pun intended!) Western NC town!
Looking for more things to do in Western North Carolina? Check these posts:
- Mountain Fun: The Best Things to do in Bryson City
- Western NC Getaway: Cashiers
- Western NC Getaway: Sylva
- NC’s Best Wine Trails
- NC’s Best Donut Shops
Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.