Introduction
If you’re planning a trip to Western North Carolina, you’re in for a treat. This region of the state is known for its stunning natural beauty, charming small towns, and vibrant culture. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve put together a guide to the region’s counties and major towns. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, we hope this guide will help you discover all the best that Western NC has to offer.
The Counties
Buncombe County
Located in the heart of Western NC, Buncombe County is home to Asheville, the region’s largest city and cultural hub. In addition to its vibrant downtown, Asheville is known for its thriving arts scene, craft breweries, and stunning mountain views. Other notable towns in Buncombe County include Black Mountain, Weaverville, and Montreat.
Henderson County
Just south of Buncombe County, Henderson County is known for its picturesque small towns and scenic beauty. Highlights include the charming town of Hendersonville, the historic village of Flat Rock, and the stunning DuPont State Forest, which features over 10,000 acres of waterfalls, hiking trails, and mountain views.
Haywood County
Lying to the west of Buncombe County, Haywood County is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing. The county seat, Waynesville, is a charming town with a walkable downtown area, while other highlights include Maggie Valley and the Cataloochee Valley, which is home to a historic settlement and a thriving elk population.
Jackson County
Located to the south of Haywood County, Jackson County is home to several small towns and the Western Carolina University campus. Highlights include the charming town of Sylva, the historic Dillsboro district, and the stunning waterfalls and hiking trails of the Nantahala National Forest.
Transylvania County
Located to the south and east of Jackson County, Transylvania County is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the waterfalls and hiking trails of the Pisgah National Forest. The county seat, Brevard, is a charming town with a thriving arts scene, while other highlights include the historic town of Rosman and the quaint community of Lake Toxaway.
The Major Towns
Asheville
Asheville is the largest city in Western NC and the cultural hub of the region. Known for its vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and stunning mountain views, Asheville is a must-visit destination for any traveler to the region. Highlights include the historic Biltmore Estate, the River Arts District, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Hendersonville
Hendersonville is a charming small town with a walkable downtown area and a thriving arts and culture scene. Highlights include the Flat Rock Playhouse, the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, and the historic Henderson County Courthouse.
Waynesville
Waynesville is the county seat of Haywood County and a charming town with a walkable downtown area and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. Highlights include the Waynesville Historic District, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Sylva
Sylva is a small town with a thriving arts and culture scene and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. Highlights include the Jackson County Greenway, the historic downtown area, and the hiking trails of the Nantahala National Forest.
Brevard
Brevard is a charming town known for its thriving arts scene and stunning natural beauty. Highlights include the Brevard Music Center, the Pisgah National Forest, and the historic downtown area.
Conclusion
Western North Carolina is a region full of natural beauty, charming small towns, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, we hope this guide has given you a taste of all the best that the region has to offer. From the stunning mountain views of Asheville to the quaint charm of Waynesville and Sylva, there’s something for everyone in Western NC.