Haywood County is located in the westernmost region of North Carolina in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is a region of unspoiled beauty and great outdoor recreational opportunities. The county seat of Waynesville is located at an elevation of 2,063 feet, making it one of the highest county seats in North Carolina.
The most popular outdoor activities for those visiting Haywood County include hiking, biking, fishing, camping, and rafting, as well as kayaking on the Pigeon River. Wildlife is abundant and cades Cove is a prime example of the county’s unspoiled beauty. There are also many opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing during the cold winter months. Historic downtown Waynesville has an array of restaurants, shopping, galleries, and entertainment.
Haywood County is a great destination for those looking for a peaceful natural retreat.
Community Highlights
Waynesville
Waynesville, NC is a charming small town located in the mountains of western North Carolina. It is situated in Haywood County and is part of the Pisgah National Forest, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Waynesville boasts a vibrant downtown, complete with quaint shops, restaurants, historical sites, and a thriving arts and crafts scene. For history buffs, this town has a rich past as an Appalachian mountain town and offers tours of its 200-year-old church, museum, and libraries, as well as several unique museums and galleries. The nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. In town, you’ll find a variety of festivals, late night music, and entertainment venues for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend or an active adventure, Waynesville, NC has something for everyone to enjoy.
Clyde
Clyde, North Carolina, is a town located in Haywood County. It is located about 16 miles north of Asheville, along the Pigeon River. Clyde was founded in 1923 and is a small community with a population of 689 according to the latest census. The area offers a great view of the surrounding scenery, as it is located in the Smoky Mountain foothills. There are numerous outdoor activities to be done, from hiking in the nearby Pisgah National Forest, to kayaking the Pigeon River. For those looking to live in a quiet yet beautiful community, Clyde is the perfect place.
Maggie Valley
Maggie Valley, North Carolina is a beautiful mountain town located in the shadow of the Great Smoky Mountains. This laid-back and friendly town, located between Waynesville and Cherokee, is the perfect destination for a peaceful and relaxing vacation. With picturesque views, charming shops and restaurants tucked away in the valley, and plenty of outdoor activities, Maggie Valley is sure to provide you with lasting memories. Whether you’re looking for some much-needed rest and relaxation or an exciting adventure, Maggie Valley has something for everyone.
Lake Junaluska
Lake Junaluska is a picturesque mountain lake in Haywood County, North Carolina. Located near the Appalachian Mountains of western N.C., it is widely known as a popular destination for swimming, boating, fishing, and camping. The peaceful lake is surrounded by tall trees, giving it a secluded and calm atmosphere. Lake Junaluska also offers a variety of activities and recreational facilities. Visitors can go hiking or horseback riding in the surrounding hills and forests, rent lakefront cabins, and enjoy live entertainment, shops, and restaurants. The nearby Lake Junaluska Conference Center is a popular venue for weddings, meetings, conferences, and other events. With its natural beauty and variety of amenities, Lake Junaluska is an enjoyable and eventful way to spend time with family and friends.
Canton
Canton, NC is a quaint small town nestled in the Smoky Mountains, close to Asheville and Waynesville. It’s home to some of the most stunning views of western North Carolina, as well as a rich selection of outdoor activities. The town is well known for its historical buildings, including the Historic Woodfin House and the Canton Commercial Historic District. Other local attractions include the Pisgah National Forest, which offers some of the most spectacular mountain views in the region, and the Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts, where you’ll find an amazing selection of locally made crafts and artwork. Canton also boasts an array of locally owned restaurants and cafés, so you can experience the unique regional flavor of the area. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an exciting outdoor adventure, Canton has something for everyone.