Things to do in Highlands: A Cool High Altitude Escape in North Carolina

At 4111 feet, Highlands is one of the highest elevated towns in North Carolina. The small community of just over 1000 residents is located within the beautiful Nantahala National Forest. The cool summer temps (typically in the mid 70’s) make this city an ideal escape from nearby hot and humid southern climates like Charlotte, Atlanta, and Greenville (SC). Even though the temps in Asheville are not too bad this time of year, Mike and I decided to daytrip here, mostly to hike the gorgeous Glen Falls trail. There are a lot of others things to do, so I think the 1.5 hour drive is justified.

The small-town charm, proximity to outdoor attractions, and beautiful isolated mountain setting make this city a wonderful summer vacation destination. When summer temps soar past the 90’s on a regular basis in the Carolinas, Highlands remains attractively cool. I am not surprised that this mountain oasis is popular with retirees, second-home owners, and tourists fleeing the intense summer heat of nearby cities. After months of brutal heat and humidity, you can enjoy the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains in a more comfortable setting.

In my guide, I will highlight a few activities worth checking out if this is your first time visiting.

1. Hike to 3 gorgeous waterfalls via Glen Falls

The best thing to do is embarking upon the short, yet intense Glen Falls hike. Featuring 700 feet of elevation gain, this is no easy trek. A leisurely downhill climb through the lush Nantahala National Forest leads you to a 60, 70, and 15 foot waterfall. All 3 are absolutely mesmerizing.

Along the way you will also come across a breathtaking overlook of the Blue Ridge Mountains. I love that there are lots of little creeks along the way and greenery is so lush and undisturbed.

While the 1 mile trek to get to the waterfalls is quite relaxing, the uphill climb back is pretty rough with lots of staircases. Take your time, take breaks if necessary (a number of benches are located throughout), and enjoy the lovely scenery and attractive mild summer temps.

If you prefer something a bit easier, simply go out to the first or second waterfall and turn back. Overall, this is one of my favorite moderate waterfall hikes in the region – this is no easy feat in an area loaded with natural beauty.

Tip: Bring with a hiking stick, wear sturdy hiking shoes, pack plenty of water, and use a restroom before arriving (no facilities at the trailhead).

• Location: 1091 Glen Falls Rd.
• Parking: No fee to park, spaces limited
• Note: 1 mile long bumpy dirt road to get to the falls

2. Walk underneath Dry Falls

Dry Falls, a 65 foot waterfall wonder located on US 64 just 10 minutes outside of the city, is one of the few NC waterfalls which you can walk underneath (I also love Moore Cove Falls). This really sets it apart from others in the region.

Another benefit of seeing this one is the easy accessibility. First off, it is located just off the highway. Second, it’s a perfect option for those looking to keep the hiking to a minimum as the trail is only a quarter of a mile long. Third, there is a handicap accessible viewing platform.

This waterfall is really powerful and visually appealing especially after a heavy storm. On a warm summer day, it’s so refreshing to feel the mist of the cool water. The drive over on scenic Hwy 64 is a treat in and of itself. This “Waterfall Byway” is loaded with scenic stops. If you have the extra time, there are a lot of great places to explore on this 98 mile stretch.

• Location: US 64/28 (3.5 miles west of Highlands).
• Fee: $3 (also good for 1 day at Upper Whitewater & Whiteside Mtn)

3. Enjoy fabulous mountain scenery via the Whiteside trail

Whiteside Mountain is a wonderful hike which is beautiful year-round. Summertime is the best time to venture out on this trail so you can enjoy the greenery, however, this is one of the few trails which is mesmerizing anytime of the year. Assuming there is no snow/ice, this hike is incredible in the winter too. If anything, you can enjoy the fabulous mountain vistas even more with the barren trees.

The loop is just 2 miles, however, I would consider the trail moderate/difficult due to the steepness. Even in the prime of winter, we had to take our jackets off as we really worked up a sweat going uphill. According to the USDA Forest Service, the mountain is estimated to be between 390 to 460 million years old! As for the name, it comes from the cliffs which appear to be sheets of ice covering the mountains.

• Location: SR 1600 & US 64, Highlands, NC.
• Fee: $3

4. Drive to a roadside waterfall

There are a number of beautiful roadside waterfalls along US-64 which conveniently begins just minutes from the city. Bridal Veil falls has a pretty unique history as at one point it was the only waterfall you could drive underneath. Sadly, you can no longer drive under it, however, you can park your car and stand underneath it for a pretty cool photo opp. This waterfall is definitely at its’ best following heavy rainfall (as our all others).

Also in the region: impressive 150 footer Toxaway Falls and Cullasaja Falls, a 200+ foot stunner.

Locations: US 64 (3 miles west of Highlands) -Bridal Veil Falls, US 64 (22.5 miles east of Highlands) – Toxaway Falls, US 64 (9 miles west of Highlands) – Cullasaja Falls. Free parking at all/limited spaces.

5. Marvel at the state’s highest waterfall

If you are a waterfall lover, a trip to the state’s tallest should top your bucket list. Whitewater is located a mere 30 minutes, making for a super easy daytrip. Upper Falls soars 411 feet, while the lower falls (a harder hike on the border of SC) stands 400 feet tall. The combined 800 foot drop makes it one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rockies.

Fortunately, this is one of the easier waterfall hikes in the state, and thus, pretty much accessible to anyone. The main walk to the falls follows a paved quarter of a mile path. It’s one of the few NC waterfall trails which is handicap accessible.

For a closer look, I recommend those who can trek down a few staircases for a better viewpoint. It’s nothing too outrageous if your knees are in good shape and definitely worth the extra effort, both for the great workout (skip the gym!) and the wonderful viewpoint! This waterfall is at its’ best during the lovely spring and summer season when surrounded by lush greenery and again during peak fall foliage.

• Location: Hwy 281. Sapphire, NC.
• Fee: $3

More to do:

• Enjoy a coffee at Calders Coffee Co.
• Go antique shopping at Reclamations and Mirror Lake Antiques.
• Check out the Bascom Art Gallery.
• Hunt for treasures at the Jackson Hole Gem Mine.
• Check out a unique local restaurant on Main St. We enjoyed Wild Thyme.