Almost half of Macon County lies within Nantahala National Forest. This specific figure puts the forest landscape in the spotlight; waterfalls, stretches of river and overlooks offer different perspectives on nature.
Waterfalls, River and Mountain Views
Dry Falls is an 80-foot-high waterfall in Cullasaja River Gorge, within Nantahala National Forest. A trail runs behind the waterfall, and there is an observation platform at the parking area. This lets you experience two different perspectives on the same waterfall: the view from the platform and the path behind the cascading water.
Cullasaja River Gorge includes four waterfalls along a 9-mile stretch. Glen Falls offers a different kind of exploration: The three-tiered waterfall can be reached via an approximately 2-mile loop hike, with four overlooks along the way. The length of the loop and the number of overlooks give a concrete sense of the hike, without implying a hiking time.
A comparison with Wayah Bald Tower shows different ways to take in the mountain landscape. Glen Falls involves a loop hike; the tower offers panoramic views of the fall foliage and is accessible by car. The Nantahala River also has a clearly identified section: Its final 8 miles feature Class III rapids known as “Nantahala Falls.”
Cultural History and Craftsmanship
The gallery at the Scottish Tartans Museum features original and replica kilts. The styles range from the late 16th century to the present day. This time span invites you to consider the garments not just as individual exhibits, but also in the context of changing styles. The gallery also explores Scottish migration to North Carolina and relations with the Cherokee. Clothing and history thus come together in one exhibition space.
The Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center focuses on promoting the teaching and preservation of the cultural and artistic heritage of the Southern Appalachians and the Cherokee. If you’re interested in a hands-on craft, Cowee Pottery School offers pottery classes for people of all ages. Availability of individual classes may vary.
The Gem and Mineral Museum of Franklin is located in a former jail in downtown Franklin. The building connects a museum visit with a glimpse into the property’s former use; it was a former jail, not a specifically identified former county facility. A museum in Franklin also shares the history of Macon County and enables genealogical research. In this way, a place formerly used as a jail and access to regional and family history sit side by side.
Seasonal Offerings and Fall Events
Macon County Farmers Market offers fresh produce, local honey and baked goods, as well as handmade crafts, live plants, cut flowers and goat milk products. The selection is seasonal; the mix of products may vary by market day. Another seasonal experience is the annual Pumpkinfest: Held every October, it features both a pumpkin-rolling contest and a pumpkin pie-eating contest. The market brings together regional produce and handmade goods, while the festival celebrates fall with two contests of its own.
Discover more destinations: Franklin, Highlands, Topton, Nash, Catawba, Cleveland, Wilkes, Mitchell County.
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