My Blue Ridge Mountains To Do List!

Highlands & Cashiers Area

Upcoming August Events [Learn More]

Hike Whiteside Mountain

– A  2‑mile loop with sheer cliff overlooks and falcon sightings  [Whiteside Mountain]

Chase Waterfalls via the Waterfall Byway

– Iconic falls include Dry Falls (walk‑behind), Bridal Veil Falls (drive‑under), Glen Falls, Secret Falls, and Quarry “Bust‑Your‑Butt” Falls [Waterfalls]

Nature Stroll at Highlands Botanical Gardens & Plateau Greenway

– Easy trails, wildflowers, birding, and scenic forest walks 

Fly Fishing on Highland Streams

– Guided trips for brook trout and smallmouth bass via Brookings Anglers [Fly Fishing]

Mountain Coaster at Highlands Outpost

– Long gravity‑powered ride through forest terrain—fun for families 

Dillsboro & Bryson City Area

Ride the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

– Scenic excursions between Dillsboro & Bryson City, with open-air gondolas and gorge layovers [Bryson City] [Dillsboro]

Whitewater Rafting on Nantahala River

– Drop into Class II–III rapids via Nantahala Outdoor Center’s guided trips 

Fontana Lake & Road to Nowhere Hike

– Paddle, swim, fish on the vast Fontana Lake, and hike/drift along the eerie “Road to Nowhere” & tunnel trail 

Quick Planning Tips

Pack layers: July mornings (esp. high elevation) can be cool.

Water safety: Bring water shoes for waterfall access/swimming.

Reservations: Whitewater rafting, gem mining, and mountain coaster are popular—book ahead.

Park fees: GSMNP charges a daily entrance fee.

Featured WNC Vacation Rental

Lovely efficiency cabin on river Bryson City

Please use our custom events calendars to get details on these featured events! 

Events:

WNC Events: 
[ https://tinyurl.com/2znjetdy]

Northeast Ga Events:
[ https://tinyurl.com/3cv3pcd2 ]

Area Vacation Rentals by High South Rentals:
[ https://tinyurl.com/p89wtjbz ]