Cashiers is a lovely unincorporated village in Jackson County, 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.
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
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.
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
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
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
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
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 ΒΌ 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
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
