5 Fall Trips in NC You Did Not Think Of
1. Sylva, Cashiers, and Dillsboro
Plan your next getaway to see and be seen – discover the adventures in Jackson County, and inspire your friends with the many Instagram-able views. Choose the mountain towns of Sylva, Cashiers or Dillsboro for your stay, and you’re a 20-minute drive to both Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Blue Ridge Parkway. Make sure Silver Run Falls is on your list of natural attractions to visit. It’s one of the most picturesque waterfalls and is easily accessible inside Nantahala National Forest. Or take the challenging, yet rewarding, hike on Waterrock Knob Trail to an elevation of nearly 6,300 feet, the highest point on the Parkway. Then trade an adventure trail for a leisure one – the Ale Trail includes stops at Innovation Brewing, Balsam Falls Brewing Co. and Whiteside Brewing Co.
2. Tryon
Buzz has been building around the small town of Tryon since the Tryon International Equestrian Center opened a few years ago. The sprawling facility was confirmed as one of the world’s premier equestrian lifestyle destinations when it was selected to host the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games, taking place Sept. 11-23. Through fall, it puts on Saturday Night Lights, a fun-for-the-whole-family, free weekly event that’s part-carnival, part-horse competition. Pencil in some time for relaxation, too, at Overmountain Vineyards, a French-inspired winery with lovely mountain views and fire pits; and opt for the elevated tasting for a private tour and tasting with the winemakers. Then, continue your palate pursuits at Pine Crest Inn, known for its award-winning wine cellar and 3-course breakfasts, before tucking into your romantic accommodations.
3. Black Mountain
Voted “America’s Prettiest Small Town” in 2017 by TripAdvisor, Black Mountain sits just 20 minutes outside of bustling Asheville and serves as an excellent home base to explore western North Carolina. Yet you may find it impossible to pry away from the tranquility of your cabin rental on Lake Eden, where you can choose from treehouse-style cabins, vintage campers, rustic cabins or luxury cottages. The lake also hosts the beloved LEAF festival every October: a colorful, soul-lifting event focused on music, art, culture and community. You’ll also find three local craft breweries in this town: Lookout Brewing, Pisgah Brewing and the newest, Black Mountain Brewing. But cider and mead fans, never fear: Black Mountain Ciderworks + Meadery has you covered.
4. Lake Norman
As the largest manmade lake in North Carolina, Lake Norman has a plethora of water activities that will make your fall getaway special. The lakeside town of Cornelius offers numerous marinas to make renting boats, jet skis or paddleboards a breeze. And foodies will delight at the sight of Hello, Sailor, a waterfront restaurant and bar known for its hushpuppies, Carolina shrimp Calabash plate and cocktails. In 2018, it was named one of the “18 Best New Restaurants in America” by Eater. Nearby Davidson also has plenty to offer with its idyllic main street and beautiful Davidson College campus that keeps a full community calendar of events, including plays inspired by current events. Plus, don’t miss Kindred, the sister restaurant to Hello, Sailor, which opened a few years earlier and has continuously garnered acclaim.
5. Atlantic Beach
It’s a no-brainer to visit North Carolina’s breathtaking coast during the summer. But insiders know an early to mid-fall trip to the Atlantic Beach area means smaller crowds and warm temperatures that still allow for fun in the sun. Take a relaxing walk on the beach, making your way to Oceanana Fishing Pier. If you need help deciding when in fall to experience one of America’s best beaches, you could book your trip to coincide with the annual Carolina Kite Festival, held in late October.