Best Mountain Towns in NC 

Are you searching for the best mountain towns in Western North Carolina? Here are ten great mountain towns in NC, with information on local favorites! 

From the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean, North Carolina is a naturally diverse state offering a variety of elevations and climates. If you are moving to North Carolina, one of the first things you will notice is its geography since the Blue Ridge Mountains offer some of the most spectacular views in the country. 

Home to many great small towns to call home, some of the best towns in North Carolina can be found in the mountains. Western Carolina is sought-after not only for its outdoor activities and quiet way of life, but most of these mountain towns are extremely safe places to live and ideal for raising a family. 

Check out these best mountain towns in Western Carolina 

1. Asheville 

Asheville is a beautiful city in the Blue Ridge Mountains, best known for its thriving arts scene, craft breweries, renowned golf courses, and stunning natural attractions. If you are moving to Asheville, many homes for sale in Asheville feature large lots and picturesque mountain views in safe neighborhoods.

About a four-hour drive from Raleigh, many young professionals and retirees choose to call Asheville home for its laid-back atmosphere and active lifestyle. Not only is Asheville one of the best places to retire in North Carolina, but it is also home to the University of North Carolina at Asheville, making it a hotspot for college students. 

Local Favorites: 

Biltmore: This historic house museum is considered America's largest home and offers house tours of this 8,000-acre grand estate created by George Vanderbilt. 

Asheville Pinball Museum: Located in central Downtown Asheville, this all-you-can-play arcade features over 75 pinball machines and classic video games. 

The Omni Grove Park Inn: Relax at this historic golf resort that offers beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and an award-winning subterranean spa. 

New Belgium Brewing Company: Enjoy a variety of beers in a fun atmosphere near Downtown Asheville. 

2. Boone 

Boone is a wonderful destination almost a two-hour drive North of Asheville. It is most popular for its cultural scene and rich history. Best known as the home of Appalachian State University, which has a 500-acre campus that spreads through the downtown district, Boone is a lively college town full of students, young professionals, and families. 

As the largest community and economic hub of the "High Country," a seven-county region in Western North Carolina, Boone attracts many people who want to live there because of its endless winter fun and ski resorts. If you are searching for homes for sale in Boone, this thriving community also happens to be one of the most expensive cities in the state due to its high demand for housing. 

Local Favorites:

Tweetsie Railroad: This Wild West theme park features a three-mile ride on a historic steam locomotive. 

Appalachian Mountain Brewery: Founded in 2013, this craft brewery is known for its delicious beers and ciders. 

Booneshine Brewing Company: Offering a great variety of tasty beers and the largest outdoor beer garden in the High Country. 

Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park: This National Recreational Trail System offers 185 acres and 10 miles of trails for mountain bikers and hikers. 

3. Brevard 

Brevard is a popular city in North Carolina located at the entrance to Pisgah National Forest and 45 minutes South of Asheville. With a population of 7,847, Brevard is a smaller city with a vital downtown district full of local businesses and popular tourist attractions. 

Considered one of the "Coolest Small Towns in America," Brevard is equal parts unique as it is beautiful. A sought-after destination for retirement, many people love buying real estate in Brevard for its low cost of living, affordable housing prices, moderate climate, and exceptional natural beauty. 

Local Favorites:

Looking Glass Falls: This scenic and popular waterfall is located in Pisgah National Forest near the Blue Ridge Parkway. 

Oskar Blues Brewery Taproom: Visit this brewpub for craft beers and fresh food with an outdoor patio bar. 

Brevard Brewing Company: This laid-back, family-owned microbrewery specializes in hand-crafted lagers. 

DuPont State Recreational Forest: This 12,500-acre state forest features waterfalls and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, hunting, and fishing. 

4. Hendersonville 

Hendersonville is a city South of Asheville that is best known for its scenic hiking trails, breathtaking waterfalls, top-rated school system, craft breweries, delicious eateries, and fun activities for all ages. Featuring stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hendersonville is one of the best mountain towns in North Carolina for its Southern hospitality and friendly residents. 

If you are looking for homes for sale in Hendersonville, there are plenty of affordable options near top amenities and attractions. A great place to live with lots of personality, Hendersonville is walkable and full of history, which is part of its charm and one of the many reasons so many people want to live here. 

Local Favorites:

Mineral and Lapidary Museum: This volunteer-run museum features displays of minerals found in Henderson County and North Carolina. 

Grandad's Apples: This 100-acre family-run farm features an apple orchard, pumpkin patch, corn maze, and country store. 

Appalachian Pinball Museum: Play pinball and old-school arcade games all day for only $13. 

Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards: This working vineyard and orchard has a tasting room to enjoy wine, cider, and spirits. 

5. Waynesville 

Waynesville is not only the largest town in Western Carolina but also the county seat of Haywood County. Located about 30 miles Southwest of Asheville, Waynesville is situated between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains. It offers breathtaking views and plenty of ways to get out and enjoy nature. 

Home to many popular attractions and local craft breweries, Waynesville offers affordable housing prices and a low cost of living. Not only is Waynesville a great tourist attraction throughout the year, but it is home to very nice residents and is about a 30-minute drive North of Western Carolina University. 

Local Favorites:

Haywood Smokehouse: Serving up old-school barbeque and a variety of delicious sides in a great atmosphere. 

Haywood's Historic Farmer's Market: Established in 2008, this producer-only market is a great way to support local farmers and businesses. 

Frog Level Brewing Co: This working brewery in Waynesville has 21 beers on tap and indoor and outdoor seating. 

Boojum Brewery Taproom: This taproom features 16 rotating beers and a menu full of American and Southern dishes. 

6. Sylva 

The beautiful mountain town of Sylva is located in central Jackson County and boasts a relatively small population of just over 2,600 people. Found at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains, Sylva is located not far from Waynesville and is eight minutes from Western Carolina University, making it a frequented hangout destination for college students. 

Featuring a cute main street with breweries, delicious restaurants, coffee shops, and antique stores, Sylva is full of unique finds and fun things to do for the whole family. Best known as the home of the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail, many anglers love visiting Sylva worldwide. 

If you are searching for homes for sale in Sylva, there are plenty of options ranging in price and home style. 

Local Favorites:

Jackson County Public Library: This public library offers beautiful views of Downtown Sylva and the Blue Ridge Mountains six days a week. 

Innovation Brewing: Visit this taproom with over 15 beers on tap and live music near Western Carolina University. 

Balsam Falls Brewing Co.: Established in 2017, this small-town brewery is the place to be for craft beer and tasty eats. 

ILDA LLC: Dine on delicious southern Italian cuisine that is made using fresh ingredients from local farms. 

7. Highlands 

Highlands is a wonderful mountain town in Macon County, located in the Nantahala National Forest in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Within an hour and a half drive to Asheville and close to the South Carolina and Georgia borders, Highlands is considered a quiet town and sought-after mountain retreat for its natural surroundings, hiking opportunities, and breathtaking waterfalls. 

Highlands residents are never bored since it offers no shortage of outdoor adventure. Most of the homes for sale in Highlands are found in safe and secluded neighborhoods. 

Local Favorites:

Dry Falls: This beautiful 75-foot waterfall is family-friendly and popular for pictures. 

Bridal Veil Falls: Visit this 120-foot waterfall that is easy to find a great stopping point on the way to Dry Falls. 

Whiteside Mountain: This beautiful landmark is about 290 to 460 million years old and is 4,930 feet high. 

Ravenel Park - Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust: As the largest land trust in North Carolina, many visitors love to come here to hike and picnic. 

8. Cashiers 

Cashiers is a census-designated place in southern Jackson County that is known for being a small community with a population of 752. Located 40 minutes South of Sylva and only about 10 miles from Highlands, Cashiers is definitely worth the visit since it offers some of the most scenic views in the country. 

Cashiers is a great place to buy real estate in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains if you love scenic mountains, rivers, hiking trails, waterfalls, and fun outdoor activities. 

Local Favorites:

Whiteside Brewing Company: Enjoy great beer in the heart of Cashiers with frequent live performances and trivia nights. 

Silver Run Falls Trailhead: This beautiful 20-foot waterfall is only a few miles from Downtown Cashiers. 

Slab Town Pizza: Order build-your-own pizza and calzones from this small local pizzeria. 

Bucks Coffee Cafe of Cashiers: Visit this small local coffee shop for espresso drinks, pastries, and breakfast and lunch items. 

9. Banner Elk 

Located near Boone, Banner Elk is a popular destination in the Blue Ridge Mountains that is best known for its wineries, breweries, and ski resorts. Situated between Sugar Mountain Resort and Beech Mountain Resort, this mountain town attracts many skiers and snowboarders to the area during winter. 

The quiet mountain village of Banner Elk has many homes for sale and features master-planned gated communities and luxury homes with outdoor amenities. Lees-McRae College, a four-year private college in the Appalachian Mountains, is also located here. 

Local Favorites:

Banner Elk Winery: Founded in 2006, stop in for year-round tastings. 

Sugar Mountain Resort: With a 5,300-foot peak, this resort is popular for skiing and snowboarding. 

Grandfather Vineyard and Winery: This family-run winery features a relaxing tasting room and frequent events throughout the year. 

Grandfather Mountain: Best known for having the highest peak on the eastern escarpment of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 

10. Black Mountain 

Black Mountain is part of the Asheville Metropolitan Statistical Area and has a population of over 8,500 people. This beautiful mountain town is best known for its gorgeous mountain views, pretty downtown area, and numerous outdoor adventures. 

A great mountain to call home all year round, the homes for sale in Black Mountain are scenic and found in nice neighborhoods with friendly neighbors. 

Local Favorites:

Black Mountain Brewing: Featuring an excellent selection of beers in a fun and friendly atmosphere. 

Lake Tomahawk Park: This beautiful park features a lakeside walking trail, a fishing pier, tennis courts, and a pool. 

White Horse Black Mountain: Listen to live music at this concert venue in Black Mountain that can seat up to 150 people. 

Black Mountain Cider and Mead: All cider and mead are made in small batches from local apples and honey. 

Methodology 

We used data and information from multiple local sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau and the Charlotte Observer, to determine the best mountain towns in North Carolina. 

FAQs 

What is the nicest mountain town in North Carolina? 

Highlands was ranked as the number one best mountain destination for its remote location but accessibility for hiking, music, art, and dining experiences. 

What is the best mountain town for retirees in North Carolina? 

North Carolina is home to many beautiful mountain towns that are great for retirees including Brevard and Black Mountain for their low crime rates, natural beauty, and outdoor activites. 

What is the highest mountain town in North Carolina? 

Beech Mountain is the highest mountain town in North Carolina and in the eastern United States at an elevation of 5,506 feet. 

Best Mountain Towns in NC - Final Thoughts 

If you are ready to find your dream home in one of North Carolina's best mountain towns, contact the experts at UpHomes. We are ready to help and are prepared to answer your questions.