If you’re headed to North Carolina, skipping Asheville for this scenic Blue Ridge mountain town might be worthwhile. With its charming downtown, stunning lake, and endless outdoor adventures, Cashiers is one of the many low-key small towns in North Carolina perfect for a weekend retreat.
Whether you're exploring historic sites, hiking to waterfalls, or spending a peaceful day on Lake Glenville, this Smoky Mountains town offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in one of North Carolina’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Just about an hour's drive from popular cities like Asheville, Cashiers is one of a handful of mountain towns in North Carolina with Asheville vibes but even better. It's an accessible getaway that feels like a world apart, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains.
This charming mountain town sits at an elevation of 3,484 feet, making it one of the highest communities in the eastern U.S. With its lush forests, rolling meadows, and cascading waterfalls, Cashiers is a nature lover’s paradise.
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Explore Cashiers, A Picturesque Mountain Escape With Small-Town Charm
Visitors can start their exploration of Cashiers at the Village Green, a 13.2-acre community park in the heart of Cashiers. More than just a park, the Village Green is a cultural hub featuring scenic walking trails, native gardens, a playground, an outdoor sculpture garden, and open-air venues that host seasonal events like concerts, craft fairs, and holiday celebrations. It’s also home to the Village Play, a space for children to enjoy imaginative outdoor play.
Those interested in history can visit the Zachary-Tolbert House, a remarkably preserved 19th-century home that showcases Appalachian life through original furniture and artifacts. Located about a mile south of the town center, this historic site provides a glimpse into the past with guided tours, including a visit to the Hampton Schoolhouse.
Whiteside Brewing Co. is a must-visit for a taste of local flavors, offering craft beers brewed on-site and delicious pub-style food. Located just off Highway 107, it provides a cozy atmosphere with a large outdoor seating area perfect for enjoying the crisp mountain air.
The Cashiers Farmers Market is a great stop if you’re looking to shop for fresh local produce, gourmet foods, and homemade goods. It features an array of seasonal fruits and veggies, jams, honey, baked goods, and resident golden retrievers.
Just a short drive south of Cashiers, visitors will find Grimshawes Post Office, recognized as one of the smallest post offices in the United States. This tiny, one-room wooden structure is a quirky but fun historical stop, giving insight into the region’s postal history.
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Lake Glenville Is A Scenic Lake Surrounded By Waterfalls In A Smoky Mountains Rainforest
About eight miles north of Cashiers, Lake Glenville is a breathtaking lake in the Smoky Mountains. At 3,494 feet above sea level, it is one of the highest-elevation lakes east of the Rocky Mountains, offering 26 miles of scenic shoreline, seven islands, and three stunning waterfalls.
The crystal-clear waters surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests are the perfect setting for a day spent fishing. The lake has an abundance of bass, walleye, trout, and catfish. Anglers can fish from the shore, a boat, or one of the lake’s many hidden coves. The lake also offers excellent opportunities for swimming at Pines Recreation Area, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, and water skiing.
There is a designated beach area with picnic tables and restrooms for those looking to swim, making it a perfect spot for a summer afternoon. Adventurous hikers can embark on the 1.4-mile round-trip trail to High Falls, which leads to one of the area’s most picturesque waterfalls, best seen after heavy rain when the water is at its most powerful.
Explore The Best Hiking Trails & Outdoor Adventures Near Cashiers
Beyond the town and the lake, Cashiers is surrounded by miles of hiking trails, pristine forests, and spectacular waterfalls. One of the best hiking spots in the region is found in the nearby wilderness, often dubbed the 'Yosemite Of The East’. This place is called Panthertown Valley, a 6,300-acre backcountry area in the Nantahala National Forest, 36 miles west of Cashiers.
This beautiful area features over 30 miles of trails with granite cliffs, sparkling streams, and diverse wildlife. Notable trails include Schoolhouse Falls, a 1.2-mile hike leading to a serene waterfall, and Greenland Creek Falls, a beginner-friendly two-mile loop leading to a multi-tiered cascade.
Another great outdoor destination is Gorges State Park, 12 miles east of Cashiers, near Sapphire and Lake Toxaway. This 8,000-acre park is home to rugged gorges, temperate rainforests, over 20 stunning waterfalls, and scenic trails. One of the most popular hikes in the park is the Rainbow Falls Trail, a moderate 3.9-mile round-trip hike leading to a spectacular 150-foot waterfall that crashes into a rocky pool below.
Visitors can check out Silver Run Falls, located four miles south of Cashiers along NC Highway 107, for an easy but rewarding trek. This less-than-a-quarter-mile trail leads to a picturesque waterfall with a tranquil swimming hole at its base, making it a great spot to cool off in the summer.
Many visitors are unaware that North Carolina is home to the tallest waterfall on the East Coast. This must-see waterfall is Whitewater Falls, standing at 411 feet. Located 13 miles south of Cashiers, this awe-inspiring cascade can be reached via a 0.6-mile paved trail that leads to an upper overlook with an optional staircase for a closer view.
During winter, visitors can head to Ski Sapphire Valley, just four miles east of Cashiers. This small but fun ski resort offers ski slopes, a tubing run, and a snowboarding area, making it a great option for beginners and families looking for a winter adventure.
With its charming downtown, stunning alpine lake, and endless outdoor adventures, Cashiers, North Carolina, is a dream destination for mountain retreat travelers.