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8 Destinations Way Up High In North Carolina That Are So Worth The Drive

Explore eight of the highest small towns in North Carolina, each offering unique attractions and scenic beauty.

Published Jul 14, 2023

Written by 

Carolyn Harmon

The highest towns in North Carolina's majestic mountains are just part of the state's explicit beauty as also detailed through pastoral landscapes and calming coastal plains. How lucky we are with the conflicting choice of which lovely place to visit — as the possibilities are endless. Here are eight of the highest small towns in North Carolina, always gorgeous and worth the drive.

1. Beech Mountain, Watauga County: elevation 5,506 feet

A panoramic view of lush green mountains under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.
WB_NC/TripAdvisor

With a home in the Blue Ridge Mountains, ski trails and panoramic views are in abundance here. From one-of-a-kind stops, such as Fred’s General Mercantile, discover why Beech Mountain is a great place to visit.

2. Highlands, Macon County: elevation 4,117 feet

A serene lakeside scene with geese and ducks near colorful autumn trees reflecting in the water.
EvanS, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Harris Lake is just one of the many beautiful places to visit in Highlands, North Carolina, for fishing, picnicking, and watching the ducks. Eat dinner at one of these excellent fine-dining restaurants.

3. Newland, Avery County: elevation 3,621 feet

A serene waterfall cascades over rocky terrain, surrounded by autumn leaves and lush greenery.
Textilesqueen/TripAdvisor

See this cascading waterfall at Bobby McLean Memorial Park Trail in Newland, North Carolina. Also check out Linville Falls and Duggers Creek Falls.

4. Crossnore, Avery County: elevation 3,369 feet

Stone building with a sign for Crossnore Weavers & Gallery, surrounded by greenery and trees on a sunny day.
Anne Page Mosby/TripAdvisor

This community is home to Crossnore Weavers, promoting and preserving the Appalachian art of hand-weaving, while supporting Crossnore Communities for Children. Read more about this initiative on Crossnore Weavers’ website.

5. Sparta, Alleghany County: elevation 2,927 feet

Aerial view of a small town at sunset, surrounded by hills and colorful clouds in the sky.
Chrishash1991, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Located in the Northwest mountains of North Carolina, Sparta, North Carolina, offers boutiques and outdoor adventures along the Blue Ridge Parkway and the New River. For a great lunch, head on over to Mis Arados Mexican restaurant.

6. Burnsville, Yancey County: elevation 2,825 feet

A scenic view of a town with blooming pink flowers, cloudy skies, and mountains in the background.
Town of Burnsville, NC/Facebook

Part of Burnsville's mystery and charm is its location in the shadow of Mount Mitchell, which has the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. Discover why Burnsville is one of the best day trips in North Carolina.

7. Lansing, Ashe County: elevation, 2,664 feet

A serene park scene with two paths diverging under a large tree, surrounded by lush greenery and blue skies.
Scott Densmore/AllTrails

You'll find this little hike that's just under a mile at Lansing Creeper Trail Park in Lansing, North Carolina, along with primitive campsites. See what's happening on Lansing, North Carolina’s Facebook page.

8. Bakersville, Mitchell County: elevation 2,470 feet

Aerial view of a rural landscape with hills, fields, and a small town surrounded by trees and winding roads.
Town of Bakersville/Facebook

Tucked in the rugged terrain of this small mountain town are homes of many artists, and avid sportspeople who crave the outdoor recreational opportunities Bakersville brings. Treat yourself to a legendary meal at Mountain Holler Steak and Seafood.

For more time in the sky, discover the highest peak in North Carolina, Mount Mitchell, at 6,684 feet.

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