8 Best Things to Do in Cashiers, NC

By VI Staff on March 17, 2020

Cashiers is a lovely unincorporated village in Jackson County, North Carolina, best known as the home of the gorgeous historic buildings of the 19th-century High Hampton Inn Historic District. The city serves as a gateway to stunning wilderness areas like Gorges State Park, which preserves several important natural gorges and rock structures, and the gorgeous Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests. Majestic Whitewater Falls, the highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, flows along the course of the Whitewater River, a popular trout fishing destination.

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

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.

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

6.Victoria's Closet

Victoria's Closet has been Cashiers' premiere women's boutique since 1991, showcasing the largest selection of fine consignment clothing in the American Southeast. The store offers three separate store locations, home to a combined total of 7,500 square feet of clothing, apparel, and accessories sold at reasonable prices. Consignments are in excellent to new condition, many sourced as overstock items with original brand tags still intact. Victoria's Closet for Men sells high-end men's sportswear, shoes, and formal and casual clothing, while Victoria's Shoes and Purses specializes in boutique accessories, estate jewelry, and furs. High-end labels are sold at bargain prices, making the store a great choice for shoppers looking for unique finds on a budget.

29 Marmalade Ln, Cashiers, NC 28717, Phone: 828-743-9575

7.Brookings Anglers

Brookings Anglers is a delightful fly fishing outfitter in Cashiers, offering high-quality accessories and goods for sport fishing anglers. The fly shop and cabin rental services specializes in goods for trout and smallmouth bass anglers, located conveniently near many of North Carolina's most popular watersheds and waterways. Friendly, experienced staff can help anglers select everything they need to hit the waters at nearby outdoor areas like the Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests and the majestic Whitewater River. Fly fishing guide services are also available for hire, leading beginner, wade fishing, and float angling trips. A fully-equipped rental cabin is available for overnight stay, providing convenient access to area waterways.

49 Pillar Dr, Cashiers, NC 28717, Phone: 828-743-3768

8.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