Day Tripping: Discover The Wonders Surrounding Highlands
Highlands, North Carolina, is a beautiful mountain town known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. If you’re looking for day trips from Highlands, here are some great options for exploring the surrounding area:
Whiteside Mountain: Located just a few miles from Highlands, Whiteside Mountain offers stunning hiking trails with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The 2.5-mile loop trail takes you along the cliff’s edge and provides breathtaking vistas.
Cashiers, NC: Just a short drive from Highlands, Cashiers is another charming mountain town. Explore the shops, dine at local restaurants, and visit attractions like the High Hampton Inn and the Chattooga River.
Gorges State Park: About a 30-minute drive from Highlands, Gorges State Park offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and a beautiful environment for outdoor activities. Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Falls are popular destinations within the park.
Blue Ridge Parkway: Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is easily accessible from Highlands. You can enjoy breathtaking views, hiking trails, and picnic spots along the way.
Dry Falls: A short drive from Highlands, Dry Falls is a unique waterfall that you can walk behind without getting wet. It’s a great spot for a quick visit and some fantastic photos.
Bridal Veil Falls: This is another beautiful waterfall near Highlands. You can stand under the falls, making it a unique and picturesque stop.
Nantahala National Forest: Explore the Nantahala National Forest, which offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. The forest is home to several waterfalls, including Rufus Morgan Falls and Mooney Falls.
Lake Glenville: A short drive from Highlands, Lake Glenville is North Carolina’s highest-elevation lake. You can enjoy water activities like boating, fishing, and swimming or simply relax by the scenic lake.
Cherokee, NC: If you’re interested in Native American history and culture, visit Cherokee, which is home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Explore the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and Harrah’s Cherokee Casino.
Biltmore Estate: A bit further away (about a 2.5-hour drive), the Biltmore Estate in Asheville is a stunning historic mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens and a winery. It’s well worth a day trip if you have the time.
This day trip options from Highlands, NC, offer a mix of outdoor adventures, natural beauty, cultural experiences, and scenic drives. Whether you’re interested in hiking, waterfalls, or simply exploring charming mountain towns, there’s something for everyone in the area.