Nestled in the heart of Haywood County, just 25 miles west of Asheville, Waynesville combines small-town charm with vibrant culture. As the largest town west of Asheville (population 10,000), this historic mountain retreat has been drawing visitors since the 1800s with its pristine air, crystal-clear water, and stunning mountain vistas.
Downtown Highlights
The historic downtown district features beautifully restored buildings and welcoming brick sidewalks, creating an ideal setting for exploration. Visitors will find:
- Diverse art galleries and specialty shops
- The iconic Mast General Store
- Antique shops and home furnishing boutiques
- Local restaurants and craft breweries
- Abundant free parking options, including:
- Wall Street (parallel to Main Street)
- City parking lots
- Parking deck at 143 Branner Avenue
Notable Attractions
Frog Level Historic District
This charming neighborhood between Main Street and Richardson River features the popular Frog Level Brewing Company (56 Commerce Street), offering local craft beers in a historic setting.
Cultural Venues
- Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts (49 Shelton Street)
- Located in historic Shelton House
- One-hour tours showcasing local artistry
- Exhibits of distinctive furniture and handicrafts
- Wheels Through Time Museum
- HART Theatre
- Semi-professional community theatre
- Year-round Broadway shows and concerts
- Adjacent to Shelton House
Seasonal Events
- Summer Mountain Street Dances
- Four Friday nights during summer
- Traditional mountain hoedowns
- Held at the Historic Courthouse
- Features clogging and square dancing
Outdoor Adventures in Haywood County
Natural Highlights
- Home to 13 peaks above 6,000 feet
- Highest average elevation of any eastern U.S. county
- 46 miles of Blue Ridge Parkway (mileposts 408-454)
- Richland Balsam (highest point on Blue Ridge Parkway)
Outdoor Activities
Waterfalls
- Soco Falls
Located between Maggie Valley and Cherokee Indian Reservation, these rare double waterfalls offer an enchanting vista just steps from the main road.
Directions
From Maggie Valley:
- Take US 19 South toward the Blue Ridge Parkway
- Pass under the Parkway and continue downhill toward Cherokee
- Watch for a marked pull-off on the left (1.5 miles from Parkway)
- Look for the small blue sign indicating “Soco Falls 0.5 miles ahead”
Trail Details
- Main Trail
- Begins at the guardrail break
- Short but steep path
- Leads to viewing deck with waterfall overlook
- Optional Base Trail
- Extends from viewing deck to falls’ base
- Steep descent
- Equipped with guide ropes
- Warning: Trail can be extremely slippery; use caution
The short hike rewards visitors with views of two magnificent waterfalls converging in nature’s rare display, making it an ideal stop for scenic adventure seekers.
- Sunburst Falls
Location & Access
Located in Canton’s Middle Prong Wilderness along Highway 215, Sunburst Falls offers a convenient waterfall experience with the upper falls visible directly from the road.
Parking Options
- Limited spaces on either side of the bridge
- Additional parking 0.25 miles up or down from falls
- Safety Alert: Exercise caution due to sharp curve and limited visibility
Viewing Areas
Upper Falls
- Visible from roadside
- No hiking required
- Clear views from bridge
Lower Falls
- Accessible via trail across from bridge
- Trail begins on left side (when facing away from falls)
- Warning:
- Steep, challenging scramble to base
- Trail can be extremely slippery
- Avoid climbing on rocks, especially in wet conditions
Safety Guidelines
- Stay alert for traffic on Highway 215
- Do not stand in roadway
- Park completely off the road surface
- Be considerate of other drivers navigating the curve
- Avoid exploring rocks during wet or foggy conditions
Popular Hiking Trails
- Graveyard Fields
- Max Patch
- Cold Mountain
- Black Balsam Knob
- Purchase Knob
Additional Activities
- Cataloochee Valley (Great Smoky Mountains)
- Elk viewing
- Historic buildings
- Camping and hiking
- Pigeon River Area
- Ziplines
- Whitewater rafting
- Scenic drives along Appalachian Medley Byway and Forest Heritage National Byway
- Winter activities at Cataloochee Ski Area and Tube World (Maggie Valley)
Nearby Towns
- Maggie Valley (8 miles)
- Lake Junaluska (3 miles)
Getting There
From Asheville: Take I-40 West to exit 27, then follow Highway 74 (approximately 30 minutes).
For additional information and current events, visit the Haywood County NC Smokies website.
