The summer is heating up, and we know you’re itching to discover what nature has to offer in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains. In our neck of the woods, we dare to jump into outdoor action and this season we’re going all out. Whether you’re looking to stick a legendary landing on your bike, conquer the trails of a 6,000-foot peak, or chase new heights on horseback, Haywood County calls you to adventure. Come along for an exciting ride.
Chestnut Mountain Park
Looking to shift gears and pedal harder? Need-for-speed cyclists can try out new tricks, take some jumps, and pop some wheelies at Chestnut Mountain Park, Canton’s nature-based recreation park and picnic area. This 450-acre adventure park features 15-miles of multi-use trails, from beautiful back country for great scenery to cyclists’ Berm Park for daredevils. Family along for the ride? Chestnut Mountain Park has plenty of hiking and biking trails the whole family can enjoy. Be sure to visit this summer for the grand opening of two new hiking trails and two new biking trails!
Fishing
Visit Maggie Valley, one of only 17 designated cities in the Mountain Heritage Trout Waters program, host to trout fishing as a heritage tourism pastime.
Work up an appetite? Slap your catch on the grill at one of Sorrell’s Creek Trout Farm’s picnic spots. Or stroll down the street of one of our charming mountain towns and sit down for a delicious meal.
Appalachian Horseback Rides
Just like our folks, our horses are gentle and kind. So, saddle up for a spirited (or lazy) Maggie Valley ride along our gorgeous mountain trails by booking an adventure at Appalachian Horseback Rides where you can ride an American Paint horse. Or, visit the newly renovated Cataloochee Ranch, which also offers horseback riding in addition to lodging, dining, wagon rides, and even a pool!
Hiking
Hike higher this summer during North Carolina’s Year of the Trail. We’re home to a number
of well-traveled routes like Max Patch’s 4,600 foot bald mountain on the great Appalachian Trail. Travel deeper into the mountains on Segment Two of the Mountain to Sea Trail (known as “The Balsams”). Haywood County is home to a gorgeous 61 mile stretch that includes trail, gravel, and paved roads. This section of the Mountain to Sea Trail is one of the most biodiverse areas of the world featuring spruce-fir and rhododendron thickets.
If you are looking for a challenge, try out some of our other beautiful trails including Black Balsam Knob, Looking Glass Falls, Art Loeb Hiking Trail, and Devil’s Courthouse.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Explore the Smokies in style this summer, with the sun on your face and the wind in your hair! Rent out a Polaris Slingshot® 3-wheeled motorcycle from Smoky Mountain Slingshot Rentals, or take your own wheels out for a spin. As nighttime approaches, the Blue Ridge Parkway’s many overlooks invite you to take in sunsets, view sparkling constellations, and soak up the scenery of our stunning mountain ranges.
However you choose to explore Haywood’s beautiful outdoors this summer, don’t forget to tag @VisitNCSmokies and #HayNow on social media.
