Whiteside Mountain or Pinnacle Park? DO BOTH.

Get ready, trailblazers! 2023 is the NC Year of the Trail and there’s no better place to celebrate it then in Jackson County, NC.

February 21, 2023

South Magazine,

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Photo / DiscoverJacksonNC

Get ready, trailblazers! 2023 is the NC Year of the Trail and there’s no better place to celebrate it then in Jackson County, NC. Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, fish, or float, Jackson County, NC has a trail for you.

Did you know Jackson County is home to some of the highest mountains in the Eastern United States and the oldest mountains in the world? With 185 named peaks, hikers and bikers of all skill levels seeking amazing views, wildlife, and unique adventures will find it here. One of our favorites is Whiteside Mountain which offers nearly panoramic views at close to 5,000 feet and the highest vertical cliffs in the Eastern US.

Photo / DiscoverJacksonNC

With 92,800 fish stocked in its waters annually, it’s no wonder Jackson County is recognized as the North Carolina Trout Capital®. Cast a line on Western North Carolina’s Fly Fishing Trail®, which features 15 prime spots for brook, brown, and rainbow trout in the clear streams of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Photo / DiscoverJacksonNC

Looking for a little restoration while on vacation? Take a peaceful walk through the state’s only Certified Nature Forest Therapy Trail in Sylva’s Pinnacle Park. Embrace the park’s natural beauty while letting the stresses of the day get washed away by Shinrin-Yoku, the ancient Japanese art of forest bathing.

Photo / DiscoverJacksonNC

After all that time out on the trails, you’ll want to refuel. Head down to Sylva’s Historic Main Street to experience Jackson County’s Ale Trail. With over 100 different brews on tap, plus great restaurants, antique shops, and more, this is a trail experience you don’t want to miss.