SURROUNDING AREA

Blue Ridge Parkway
Outstanding scenery and recreational opportunities make the Blue Ridge Parkway one of the most popular units of the National Park System. "America's Favorite Drive" winds its way 469 miles through mountain meadows and past seemingly endless vistas. Split-rail fences, old farmsteads and historic structures complement spectacular views of distant mountains and neighboring valleys.

Harrah’s Cherokee Casino
A 60,000 square foot casino open 24 hours a day, every day. More than 2,700 slots and digital games, as well as all of your favorite games played in a table game atmosphere with live dealers and real chips, are open to guests 21 years of age and older.

Cherokee Indian Reservation
Experience Cherokee history and culture brought to life in awe-inspiring ceremonial dance, ancient artifacts, stirring legends, nationally renowned theatrical performances and traditional Cherokee arts and weaponry by today’s Cherokee Master Artists.

Pisgah National Forest
The Pisgah National Forest is located in the heart of North Carolina's Blue Ridge mountains. The Blue Ridge Parkway winds its way through the forest's hazy peaks and passes Mount Mitchell, the highest summit east of the Mississippi River. In the Pisgah you can hike through virgin forest, mountain-bike over endless single-track, paddle world-class whitewater, flyfish, and climb. While in the Forest, we suggest hiking the scenic Graveyard Fields Trail or The Mountains-to-Sea Trail and enjoy the streams and waterfalls, accessible by the Blue Ridge Parkway and just a few miles from downtown Waynesville.

Fall Color Tours
The fall foliage color show in western North Carolina attracts visitors from around the world. With the 5,000-foot elevation change within 50 miles of Asheville, the lush Blue Ridge Mountain range puts on one of the longest-running color displays in the country. The date for peak color changes each year due to varying weather patterns.

Skiing and Snowboarding at Cataloochee Ski Area
Our winter playground is nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks – riding the chairlift has never been more rewarding. Smooth, gentle slopes give the novices the elbowroom they need to learn the basics and practice their skills. Intermediate skiers and snowboarders find plenty of action while seasoned experts can face the steepness found on 14 runs including exciting slopes and winding trails.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Today the Smokies, the western section of the Appalachian Mountains, include the most visited U.S. national park. This refuge is home to black bears, bobcats, 30 species of salamanders, and myriad birds, plus over 4000 species of plants. Overlooking it all are the Smokies, rising to 6,643 feet (2,025 meters) at their highest point. Most visitors travel through the park by car, along scenic drives that provide spectacular vistas, but more than 800 miles (1,287 kilometers) of trails wind through the park’s interior. Visit www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/things2do.htm for a myriad of park activities.

Ghost Town
Step back into the Wild West at Ghost Town in the Sky. The family-fun theme park in Maggie Valley is better than ever. Choose either the incline railway or the chairlift to take you to the top of Buck Mountain, where the park is perched. Thrill seekers will certainly find the right dose of adrenaline riding the Cliff Hanger Rollercoaster and the Geronimo Drop Tower. There's a bevy of less intimidating rides, too. While strolling the streets of Ghost Town, make sure to stop by the Silver Dollar Saloon to enjoy live music and the classic Can Can Girl Dancers. But keep your eyes peeled for bank robbers. Ghost Town offers a fun experience for everyone in the family.

Smoky Mountain Railroad
You'll travel along cool rushing rivers, cross over a man-made lake on a high trestle and through lush green valleys and rolling farmlands. Choose from a variety of half-day scenic rail excursions departing from depots in the historic mountain towns of Dillsboro and Bryson City, North Carolina. Climb aboard the Saturday evening Gourmet Dinner Train for a four-course meal elegantly served in the fine tradition of railroad dining. Open year-round.

Other Activities Available:
Horseback Riding
Kayaking
White Water Rafting
Nature Photography Tours
Waterfall Tours