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Smoky Mountains—Maggie Valley/Waynesville, NC
There are plenty of good reasons why the Blue Ridge Parkway has been dubbed America’s Favorite Drive, and all the evidence needed to understand the lure of this national landmark is revealed with a cruise on any portion of its 46-mile stretch through Haywood County, North Carolina.
At elevations greater than anywhere else on the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, the Haywood County span offers motorists and motorcyclists breathtaking views of seemingly endless mountain ridges and picturesque valleys.
Whether you check out the vistas from a designated overlook or explore the pristine natural surroundings via countless hiking trails, beauty is everywhere: lush green panoramas stretching in all directions, waterfalls tumbling into swimming holes, massive rock formations jutting from the green mountainsides, and colorful flora filling the refreshing air with wondrous scents.
With four access points throughout Haywood County, it’s easy to get to and from the Blue Ridge Parkway. And while there is plenty to see and do along the parkway, you’ll definitely want to tour other areas of the county as well during this majestic season.
Waynesville is characterized by an eclectic and spirited downtown lined with unique shops, galleries, working studios and historic spaces. See brick sidewalks adorned with flowers, cozy restaurants and an abundance of meandering window-shoppers. Uncover the many cultural treasures of this mountain community.
Known for its true country charm, Maggie Valley has a rich mountain history and unique shops and sights — including seeing elk and other magnificent wildlife in the wilderness of Cataloochee Valley. Maggie Valley is one of Appalachia’s best-kept secrets.
Canton is nestled among five hills along the Pigeon River. There, visitors can tour the Blue Ridge Paper Mill, one of the oldest continuously operating mills in the U.S. In Clyde, you’ll find wholesale flowers, antiques and military surplus.
Opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors abound. From hunting for waterfalls to whitewater rafting, and from hiking through rhododendrons to galloping on horseback, the Smoky Mountains are awesome. Fly-fish for mountain trout in Maggie Valley; kayak down the Pigeon River outside of Canton; take a horseback ride into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. And with six spectacular golf courses, pack the clubs and swing away while surrounded by the beauty of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
And after a day of soaking in the majestic scenery and mountaintop adventures, relax at one of 200-plus accommodations, ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts and private cabins to resorts or traditional hotels. It’s the end to a perfect day in Maggie Valley and Waynesville, North Carolina, “Where the Sun Rises on the Smokies.”
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