Craving cool mountain air, scenic trails, and small-town charm? Head to Cashiers! Nestled on a plateau in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Cashiers is a quiet retreat filled with waterfalls, upscale shops, and outdoor adventure. It's the perfect spot for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone seeking a peaceful North Carolina escape.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Cashiers is from May through October. Spring and summer bring wildflowers, cool mountain temperatures, and lush hiking trails. Fall is a standout season for vivid foliage and crisp air. Winters are quiet and serene, great for cozy cabin getaways.
Tips for getting There
- If you are traveling by car: Cashiers is located at the junction of U.S. 64 and N.C. 107, about 1.5 hours southwest of Asheville and 3 hours from Atlanta.
- By Air: The nearest airports are Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) and Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), both about 1.5–2 hours away.
- By Shuttle/Car Rental: Car rentals are recommended, as public transit is limited in the region.
Where I like to stay
- High Hampton Resort – Historic mountain resort offering rustic luxury, golf, and beautiful lake and mountain views.
- Hotel Cashiers – Boutique lodging in the heart of town, combining comfort with convenience.
- Cabins & Vacation Rentals – Plenty of secluded mountain cabins with fireplaces, hot tubs, and stunning views.
Top Attractions
1. Gorges State Park
Gorges State Park is a lovely North Carolina state park stretching across more than 7,000 acres in Transylvania County, located along beautiful Jocassee Gorges. The park, which is one of North Carolina's newest state parks, was developed in 1999 and serves as the gateway to the Pisgah National Forest today. Gorgeous second-growth forest habitats meander throughout the course of the Horsepasture River, creating excellent opportunities for year-round outdoor recreation, including chances for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. Trails lead to natural wonders like Rainbow and Turtleback Falls, located within the adjacent national forest. The park's lovely streams have been designated as Wild Trout Waters, attracting anglers from all around North Carolina. Primitive campsite areas include the hike-in Ray Fisher Place campground, which offers day-use picnic sites, fire rings, and lantern hooks for overnight guest use.
976 Grassy Ridge Rd, Sapphire, NC 28774
2. Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area
Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area is often referred to as the "Yosemite of the East," known for its stunning 300-foot cliffs along beautiful granite rock domes. The park is located within the stunning Nantahala National Forest, near the cities of Cashiers and Lake Toxaway on U.S. Highway 64. Over 30 miles of lovely multi-use trails are open to hikers, bikers, and equestrian riders, leading to spectacular overlook points and natural wonders like waterfalls, gorges, and bogs. Visitors can view spectacular panoramas of the park's natural wonders from Salt Rock Gap and see natural wonders like Big Green and Little Green Mountains. Camping is permitted at trailside campsites for groups of up to 12 people.
3. The Village Green
The Village Green is a lively 13.2-acre public park located within the heart of Cashiers' downtown district, hosting a plethora of public events and programming throughout the year for community members. The park is located on land donated from a local hotel chain and was originally developed in 1992. Today, it has become a major community gathering space, home to grassy lawns, wetlands, and forest glades. A gorgeous dahlia garden showcases spidery cactus, pompom, and daisy dahlia blooms during the spring and summer months, while an azalea garden displays rainbow-colored blossoms alongside mountain laurel and rhododendron. The unique Village Play children's playground was constructed by a team of 1,500 community volunteers, dedicated to the children of the Cashiers community. Annual special events include a Fourth of July fireworks shop, a summertime garden tour, a summer concert series, and annual winter holiday and Christmas events.
35 US-64, Cashiers, NC 28717, Phone: 828-743-3434
If you are traveling with kids:
4. Whitewater Falls
Whitewater Falls drops more than 1,500 feet at the North-South Carolina state border, located along the course of the beautiful Whitewater River. The falls are the highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, plummeting at two separate points within the gorgeous Nantahala National Forest. Majestic Upper Falls drops more than 800 feet, while picturesque Lower Falls drops 400 feet. Both falls can be accessed via the lovely Foothills Trail, which offers several lookouts for photo opportunities and panoramic views. An ADA-accessible walkway at Upper Whitewater Falls provides one of Jackson County's most scenic natural views. Several swimming areas on the river are also accessible to the public throughout the year via the Foothills Trail.
Whitewater Falls, Cashiers, NC 28717, Phone: 828-257-4200
5. Cashiers Farmers Market
Cashiers Farmers Market is a family-owned business operated by married duo Robin and Tom Crawford, originally opened in 1995 and moved to its current location on Highway 64 East two years later. The specialty grocers are known for their amazingly fresh seasonal produce, selected from the best local growers and producers. Delicious freshly-baked goods are also sold throughout the year from local bakeries and restaurants, including high-quality cakes, pies, and breakfast pastries. All-natural local beef, seasonal coastal seafood, and dairy products are complemented by fine extra-virgin olive oils, balsamic vinegars, and pantry goods. Mouthwatering takeout barbecue selections range from Cuban-style pork and beef brisket to smoked turkey and baby-back ribs.
78 US-64, Cashiers, NC 28717, Phone: 828-743-4334
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
6. The High Hampton Inn Historic District
The High Hampton Inn Historic District is a National Register of Historic Places-listed district nestled into the gorgeous mountain scenery of the Cashiers Valley, stretching across 1,400 acres between the beautiful panoramas of Chimney Top and Rock Mountains. The historic district was originally the summer home of South Carolina planter Wade Hampton II and served as a favorite hunting preserve for the Hampton family during the late 19th century. In 1933, the property was adapted into the full-service High Hampton Inn, which is still operated as a resort, golf course, spa, and recreational area today. 15 historic buildings connected to the estate and inn are showcased today within the district, including the original 2.5-story inn building, which was designed by local architect Erle Stillwell, and the current High Hampton Country Club.
1525 Highway 107 South, Cashiers, N.C. 28717, Phone: 800-340-2551
7. Silver Run Falls
Located about 4 miles south of Cashiers, in the beautiful Nantahala National Forest, the Silver Run Falls are definitely worth a visit on a hot summer day. The 25-ft waterfall plummets over a rocky ledge to drop into a beautiful natural pool with a small beach area, making this spot a popular summer swimming hole. To reach the falls you will need to park your car along the roadside (NC Hwy 107) at the designated area and take a short hike (around ¼ mile) along a clearly marked flat trail, over the bridge, and past a few observation points. The falls are also very beautiful when they freeze over in winter.
Silver Run Falls, NC Hwy 107, Cashiers, NC 28717
8. Canyon Spa
Overlooking 800 beautiful acres in Lonesome Valley, the Canyon Spa is perfectly located to offer visitors a relaxing and rejuvenating spa experience. The spa offers a range of therapeutic and aesthetic services to local residents and visitors including various types of massages, facials and body treatments. All the pampering and/or wellness treatments are administered by a team of trained massage therapists and estheticians, all of whom are dedicated to providing visitors with a memorable spa experience. You can also stock up on all your favorite body treatments. The spa is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm, all year round.
Canyon Spa, 121 Lonesome Valley Rd, Sapphire, 28774, 28 743 7696
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Whiteside Mountain – Hike along dramatic cliffs with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Lakes Glenville & Toxaway – Enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming at two nearby scenic mountain lakes.
Where I Like to Eat
- The Orchard Restaurant & Events Barn – Upscale Southern dining in a beautifully restored farmhouse.
- Slab Town Pizza – Family-friendly pizzeria known for wood-fired pies and hearty sandwiches.
- Randevu – Local coffee house and café serving gourmet breakfasts, pastries, and lunch fare.
My favorite local events:
- Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival (October) – Celebrates fall with arts, crafts, music, and seasonal food.
- Groovin’ on the Green (Summer) – Free summer concert series at The Village Green.
- Cashiers Designer Showhouse (August) – Tour beautifully styled mountain homes while supporting a good cause.
My favorite day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Cashiers, North Carolina:
- Highlands (15–20 min) – Chic mountain town with galleries, boutiques, fine dining, and nearby waterfalls like Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.
- Sapphire Valley (10 min) – Outdoor resort area with hiking, skiing, and a scenic golf course.
- Gorges State Park (40 min) – Dramatic waterfalls and rugged trails in a spectacular mountain setting.
- Lake Jocassee (SC) (45 min) – Clear, emerald-green lake great for kayaking, waterfall tours, and fishing.
- Blue Ridge Parkway (1 hour) – Scenic mountain drives, overlooks, and access to hiking along one of America’s most famous routes.
Plan Your Trip